![]() It may take a bit to get used to the dust collection hose position, but it provides plenty of suction and should keep the cut area clear as you work. These features should provide longevity to your router. Machined bushings made from brass help promote smooth movement through the plunge, and a soft start motor allows the bit to build up speed more gradually. You do have to change out bases instead of switching with a button, but this also helps to keep the price down a bit. That will get you through most projects.Īs a kit, you are offered both fixed-base and plunge router options. It offers 2.25 hp out of the box, more than the smaller trim motors on some while not going overboard like the larger 3 hp models we looked at. However, the PORTER-CABLE Router, Fixed/Plunge Base Kit 895PK is the best plunge router for the money I have reviewed here. I find most of these sufficient for my woodworking needs, depending upon the project I would be working on. These power tools can also help you to make a variety of joinery for cabinetry or jigs, including mortises. Plunge routers also seem to provide cleaner shallow cuts, something you can appreciate in DIY projects like creating recesses on doors for installing hinges. ![]() Plunge router bits tend to be more pointed, a feature that allows you to cut into the wood at a certain point and hollow out a section with less resistance than a wide bit used on a fixed-based router. You can make both dadoes as well as rabbets using a fixed-base router, but a plunge router will allow you to make “blind” cuts into only one side of the wood quickly and with less tear-out. Being able to easily lower and raise the bit as you work allows you to make a variety of cuts that might normally be too difficult, especially if you are new to woodworking or have little experience with routers. Having a bit that can plunge into the wood’s surface allows you to take your work from along the edge to anywhere on the project. The major difference between plunge and fixed base routers is the vertical movement offered with a plunge router. This design has become more popular over the past few years and most major manufacturers make at least one model of plunge router for the woodworking market. can include height controls for the above table adjustments should you decide to use a router table. Another consideration would be a spindle lock, a feature I wish I had on my first router that locks the spindle and allows you to change bits with only one wrench.Ĭontrol buttons and levers placed for quick access or operation also improve your routing experience. Ease of useįeatures that improve the ergonomics of a plunge router will allow you to hold it more comfortably and for longer periods of time. Moving small increments will make all the difference in various joints. Also, keep in mind here the ability to make micro-adjustments. The greater the depth your bit can travel, the more versatility the router offers you. This allows you to match the rotations generated with the size of the bit, the type of wood, as well as the job that you are doing. Look for a plunge router that gives you a wide range of RPMs or at least select between multiple speed settings. Anything less will struggle in deeper cuts or harder wood grain, while larger motors will tend to be heavy during use and will cause fatigue. I strongly believe that you should look for a plunge router with at least 1.5 hp, preferably in the range of 1.75 to 2.25 hp. Check Today's Price Consider this when choosing a Plunge Router Power
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