5 comments about Milwaukee 5625-20 15 Amp 3-1/2 Horsepower Fixed Base Variable Speed Router with T-Handle Height Adjustment Wrench.

1. This is my second Milwaukee 5625. The original is permanently mounted in my router table w/ a Woodpecker ' Quick lift'. I needed an additional router to compliment my Bosch router when cutting thru-dove tails with the PC dovetail jig. This router is a REAL work horse. Smooth start up, and real power with any material.



2. I bought another brand and the motor burned up the 2nd time I used it. I read all the reviews on the Milwaukee so I ordered it, and I got it in 3 days. This thing is a bear and you can't slow it down. I mounted it sideways so the height adjustment is out front. I only use it for raised panels and use smaller routers for everything else. The fit and finish on this machine is 2nd to none! Amazon had the best price and free shipping. I would recommend this TABLE router to anyone!



3. This is a powerful router. I have it permantly mouted in a router table.
   The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars, is because of the height adjusment
   It will lower just fine, but when raising it, I have to actually push up on the router while turning the knob. To be fair, I don't know if this is a problem with all the routers or just mine. It just seems to me like the threads are too coarse, plus it looks like the female part of the mechanism may be made of plastic. If Milwaukee would fix this issue, then I would say it is the perfect table mounted router.
   IMHO
   David



4. I Bought this to replace a Porter Cable in our Shopbot cnc Router.
   Initially the smoothness and quiet running was enough to make me Happy.
   It also has much more power than the Porter Cable. The downer is
   the bearings wore out in half the time of the Porter Cable.
   So, I'm going to put in new bearings and give it another shot!
   If I have different results I will post them but for know dissappointed!



5. ...because sometimes the package only includes the 1/2" collet, even though the product description says you get both the 1/2" and 1/4" collets. I bought mine from Amazon, and they had to send me a whole new router that included both, I had to remove the 1/4" collet from that package, then send back the rest. They did fix the issue pretty quick, and paid for the return postage though, so I won't complain much. But if you let them know ahead of time they can fix the problem without this hassle.
   
   A great router at a great price. Hard to go wrong here.

5 comments about Bosch 1617EVS 2-1/4-Horsepower Variable-Speed Router.

1. As others have noted, this is a great router. Mine spends most of its life in a router table with a router lift and works great. I use a remote switch mounted to the side of my table, so the switch on the router lives in the 'on' position. After regular use it was time to replace the bearing. In doing so I flipped the switch off. This led to an immediate switch failure. I tried using compressed air to clear sawdust, but this didn't work for me. After ordering a replacement switch from [...] and swapping it I'm up and running again. Its a pretty simple repair. I got curious about the failure on old switch, so I disassembled it (using a small screwdriver to gently separate the bottom from the sides and pulling the bottom portion out) and found that it was indeed packed with enough sawdust to prevent the contacts from meeting. I simply blew the sawdust out, repositioned the contact and snapped it back together. Good as new, took maybe 3 minutes and now I have a spare if this happens again. So if your switch fails and you're moderately mechanically inclined and own a continuity tester, you can easily order a new on from an online source, but you can also probably fix the switch yourself and not lose 3-4 days waiting for a part to arrive. Even if you make a mistake and damage the switch trying to repair it, you're no worse off than if you ordered a new one. For preventive maintainance, you might want to hit the switch with some compressed air on a regular basis just to minimize dust build-up.



2. Like many of the others that have reviewed this product, I agree that it is a superior router in terms of use. It is as good as the reviews suggest it is. However, the problem with the switch is unforgivable. I too removed it from my router table to use on my Akeda Jig and it failed - once before it failed and I returned it to the factory for replacement. This time I had the presence of mind to read Amazon's good reviews and realize I had a bad switch. I removed the top of the router with a star or torx screwdriver (Sears sells a whole pack of different sizes) and vacuumed dust some dust. I removed the switch by using a small screwdriver to gently pop the switch bracket on the right and left. then, I removed the connection to the armature because it is soldered to the switch and popped the other clip off from the power source - making notes of what I had done (removed it with a pair of long nosed needle nosed pliers). I then used an eyeglass scredriver to pry the bottom off of the switch and found some dust. However, the silliest thing was that the spring had lubrication that attracted dust - in a router!! I cleaned it off, reset it (sitting down with good light and noting the contact point is such that it is better to install it with the switch in the off position). I reinstalled it and after making sure the speed control was properly lined up and the router worked fine. I also ordered another switch. My other problem with this router is that the motor case corrodes or somehow becomes much less slippery and it is hard to adjust the height. I lubricated it it with a little wax and it helps. Finally, the black bottom is a really bad idea - why can't they make it clear so we can see?
   
   Still, I ordered another of these routers from Amazaon - it will stay on the bottom of my really useful and reliable Jessem router lift from Rockler and yes - do buy and use an on an off switch independent of the router - safety, reliability, etc.



3. I had two DeWalt 618s, one in my router table and a variable speed that I used for hand routing. The variable speed died on me out of the blue with less than a year on it. So, since I had all the bases for my DeWalt, I moved the single speed from my table and looked for a new router to be my dedicated route table motor. This is the first Bosch product I bought and I did so based on the consistency of good reviews that it got. It's also priced cheaper than than other comparable brands. I installed it into my Woodpecker table, turned it on and...WOW. I love the EVS, the router is far quieter than DeWalt. The base, even though it's shelved is much smoother with less friction than DeWalt as well. This is a really nice complement to a router table. Enough that if my other DeWalt router fails, I will be replacing it with a Bosch! PS. I only gave it four stars, as I keep reading about switch problems. My router is dedicated to my table with an auxilary switch, so I'm saving the fifth star when the switch "doesn't" fail.



4. Other routers owned: Bosch colt trim router, Hitachi M12SC, Festool 1400
   
   Pros:
   - Adjustable speed
   - Numerous base options
   - Size\feel\soft start\etc
   
   Cons:
   - 2 wrenches for bit removal (love 1 wrench systems of the bosch\festool)
   - Dust collection is pretty weak compared to festool
   - Measured adjustment is difficult (example: I want the cut .03" deeper) compared to festool
   - Template system isn't accurate enough for precision dovetails
   
   Conclusion:
   For the money this sucker is amazing, the kit with fixed\plunge base is even better. If you could only have one router this would be it. I used this router in my router table, handheld, fixed\plunge for years before buying another router. Now adays it sits in my router table, using the undermount base that allows above the table height adjustments.



5. The Bosch router provides smooth consistent power and cutting. It feels Slightly topheavy when not used in a "D" style base- but most routers are. I recommend getting the combo pack, unless you plan on dedicating its use to a router table.

5 comments about Triton MOF001KC 2 1/4 HP Precision Router Kit.

1. This unit had too much clearance on the guide posts and caused poor routed surfaces. The cutter would vibrate and initially the router was stopped to see if the cutter was tightened properly. The cutter cold be moved 12 mils on an indicator with no undue force and the guide post had a measured 4.5 mils movement. Triton said this was not right and Amazon sent another with the same problem. I'm moving to a JessEm router lift.



2. I used this router on a table for about 20 hours and was pleased with performance until the microadjuster stopped working. I found that the micro-adjust universal shaft was made of nylon and was stripped. I contacted Triton and there advice was to not use the microadjuster to raise and lower the router , only for fine adjustment, due to the stress it puts on the nylon shaft. This defeats the purpose of using a raiser on a router table.
   They said they were working on the problem and the repair part was on back order. If your going to use a router on a table I would consider other brands.



3. This is an awesome router. I started some years ago with a Craftsman model that was basic, then upgraded a couple of years ago to a Bosch router. This Router has a bunch of excellent features and it seems very well made. Definitely great value for money. I've only done 2 jobs with it so far using 1/2 inch Tungsten Carbide 3/8 rounding bit for some shadow boxes. It ate the job on no time - very nice Router. Australian design - Taiwan made - a good combination. Recommended



4. I reciently purchessed the triton router to replace a PC router in my router table. I was amazed when I recieved it. This is the best package money can buy. It has everything you could want in the kit. I am using it as a table router and it is a powerhouse. If you are looking for a great set up spend the money and buy this one.



5. This Triton is the fifth router I have owned. I purchased it based on a magazine review, and have not been disappointed. The Triton is such a good value, and so thoughfully designed, it's hard to compare it to my other routers. After I read some of the Amazon reviews, which mention slop or stripped plastic gearing in the adjustments, I played around with all of the features, twisting everything firmly to the stops, and found no such problems. I have used the router in a table for a month now, building several projects, and I love it.
   
   Were it just a standard, decent quality 2.25HP router, the included accessories would make this a great bargain. A full set of template guides, dust collection attachment (in addition to the dust hose port in the plunge base, for table-mounted operations) and a solid edge guide/fence are all included with the router in the plastic case. In addition, the Triton has variable speed control, and functions as its own router lift when mounted in a table. It is true that you must release the switch lock to raise the collet above the table for bit changes, but it takes about 2 seconds. After the first week, I was doing it without even thinking about it. If you are going to buy one router, or if you use a router table, I highly recommend this tool.

5 comments about Milwaukee 5616-24 2-¼ Max HP EVS Multi-Base Router Kit Includes Plunge Base and BodyGrip Fixed Base.

1. I got the router for my birthday based on the review in June 07 Popular Woodworking. The machine is fantastic. The body makes the router feel much smaller and handle much easier than its 2-1/4HP would suggest. You can easily work single handed if you want with smaller bits. The rubber body and grips offer a positive feel and are very comfortable. The plunge action is smooth and the plunge lever is right at your fingertips. The switch can be reached with both hands on the router, although with the soft start it's not necessary. The case will keep everything clean when not in use and offers lots of storage for 1/4" and 1/2" bits along and a set of template guides.
   
   Highly recommended.



2. I've had problems with my Bosch combo.. (older maganesium base.. switch.. 1/2" collect wouldn't insert.. etc.) and sold it. My DW 621 is a good plunge router after adding a large base, but I occassionally would rotate the plunge release on the left handle and the router would spring up while in the middle of use. Maybe just me but annoying and costly mistakes were sometimes made.
   
   I have had a Milwaukee 5625 under my router table for 5 years and I wouldn't consider anything else but that "hoss". I noticed that Milwaukee had just introduced a plunge router and it came in a kit with that Body Grip fixed base I have used and love.
   
   I took a chance based on my experience with the 3 1/2 HP 5625 and sold the Bosch Combo and the DW 621. Ordered the Milwaukee Combo and it arrived. Started a new bed the following week-end with the Combo getting the call on mortices.. non through dadoes.. intricate joints and with an 1 1/2" over-head bearing template bit used to trim the outline on legs for the foot and head that were 1 1/2" oak after cutting the line just outside 2 mm on my bandsaw.
   
   The results and my opinion based on 35 years of wood butchering are:
   
   Milwaukee nailed the plunge on the first try adding a complimenting plunge to their already proven Body Grip. Motors easy to switch.. bit removal quick and easy.. robust as big brother 5625.. smooth plunge.. power with the 2 1/4 HP.. good dust control attachment.. excellent balance and the best feeling router I have had the pleasure of having in my hands in 35 years.
   
   They took a long time to deliver a plunge to compliment their already robust line... but it was indeed worth the wait at my shop....!
   
   John Thompson... Sarge



3. This combo kit is excellent. It works great and has tremendous power. It is everything I expected and more. It is well worth the money.



4. As a neophyte woodworker, I've taken to reading more magazines about woodworking and the machinery associated with it. Also in the market for a new router, I saw Popular Woodworking's Essential Guide to Routers (Jan '08) that included reviews of 8 combo kits. I noted that the Milwaukee 5616 combo kit was the Editor's Choice, but while in another woodworking store saw that the Freud was on sale (with a starter set of bits.) Couldn't be that much difference, I thought.
   
   In addition to the fact that the Freud -- altho packaged as new -- had obviously seen some use (and the manual was absent) I looked over the construction features. Specifically, I had noted the reviewer did not like the locations of some levers and switches, nor the base-changing feature which required holding in the spindle lock. After struggling with it for several minutes, I realized what difficulty a little thing like this would cause when switching from plunge to fixed base. So I returned it, and purchased the Milwaukee.
   
   I've just spent an hour not routing with it, but going through the mechanics of changing bases, using the depth adjustment, checking the plunging action, levers, switch locations, etc. And, of course, starting, stopping, adjusting the speed, checking vibration, noise, etc. There's no doubt in my mind that the engineers have put a lot of thought into the design of this router, and its finish and machining show that as well.
   
   Comparing the two, there's a lot of difference; for the price difference (about $40 if you don't count the freebie bits) the Milwaukee is the winner, I agree. Now to get to the routing part of it...!



5. I have always had good luck with Milwaukee tools. This is a good set, but I expected better construction from Milwaukee. The fine adjustment isn't very percise and the above table adjustment on the base has a plastic stud that doesn't exactly fit the wrench. I can tell the plastic won't last long, it came marred from the factory where they forced the wrench on. I don't understand why they would build such a great tool and then put plastic in places that it shouldn't be. ...just charge me a few pennys more and use metal! The plunge is very smooth and the router is easy to change from base to base.

5 comments about Porter-Cable 7518 Speedmatic 15 Amp 3-1/4 Horsepower Fixed Base 5-Speed Router.

1. Listen people...this beast is a continuous duty production router, not the one router you will ever need. It is HEAVY because it is made to spin big bits without vibrating. Mass absorbs energy e=MC sq! Notice the handles? It can be used freehand. I have used it freehand to bullnose 200 LF of 3" solid Mahogany counter tops that could not be pushed through a shaper do radiused corners. It can handle your biggest jobs with grace. It has good balance and finesse, beautiful soft start and NEVER bogs under load. There is no other 15 amp production router by any manufacturer this smooth and balanced, and I have tried most . I use it only on jobs for which it makes sense and no other machine will do. Otherwise you are just lugging a barbell. It is not a laminate trimmer nor a lightweight edge profiler. Panel raising is no reason to to spend this much on a router. If you are stupid enough to spend $400 on a router then $500 on a lift then more on a table to "raise panels" when you could have bought a small or used shaper then my condolences. My shaper raises panels clean in one pass and will do so all day long. This router will too but 1/2" shank router bits can't take that kind of stress for long. For occasional panels buy a nice 2-hp model or run vertical bits. If you don't plan or need to use it freehand you can buy just the motor at a discount for a dedicated table application from some suppliers, great choice for a table if you have the money. Ps-why would you want to spin 1/4 inch bits in a 15-amp router?



2. You can't go wrong using this router. Excellent balance, power, and speed control are just a few of the features that make this router a tool to have. A little heavier than most routers, but what do you expect for a 3 1/4 production router?



3. I wanted to make about about 60 feet of raised panel wainscoting (over 25 panels) for my dining room using 3/4 in. MDF board. I selected the PC 7518 router because of the power, favorable reviews and other recommendations. I mounted it in a Bench Dog Pro Lift and mounted that in a Bench Dog ProTop router table and used Freud bits including a 3.5 in. raised panel bit with a back cutter. This set up breezed through the rail and stile cuts like butter with 1 pass and made very smooth cuts. The cuts were so precise that no sanding was required where the rails and stiles were joined. The raised panel bit also generated very smooth cuts but I would recommend 3 passes for safety and a better result. I was using the set-up on a 15 amp line in the garage (it is a 15 amp tool) with a shop vac to suck up the dust and boy does MDF generate dust. After blowing the circuit breaker a few times (using the panel cutter), I moved the vac and work lights to a different circuit and that solved the circuit breaker problem. However the router still shut down if the cut was too heavy or the feed too fast. It was easily re-set by simply unpluging and repluging the power cord. Since this was my first major router project, I attribute this to "operator error" hence the 3 pass recommendation for the raised panel cutter. That cutter really pushes this router to its limits and once I got the hang of it, it performed really well. However if your looking to do a raised panel with 1 pass in MDF, get a shaper. The end result is that I have a very happy wife who loves her wainscoting.
   
   This router is pretty heavy and is primarily intended for a router table which is where I plan to leave it. I'll use a different and lighter router for hand held router work. All and all, I'm extremely pleased with the PC 7518 and have no reservations in recommending it for use in a router table.
   
   Relative to the recommendations of some that a used shaper might have been a better approach, have you ever priced shaper cutters relative to router bits? They are a lot more expensive. Also shapers are not easily moved from the basement to the garage for a project. If I were a production shop, then a shaper makes sense. Since I'm not, the router table approach is the more flexible and cost effective approach for me. Besides, I more than covered the cost of the equipment in the savings from not having to buy or have someone make custom wainscoting.



4. When it comes to woodworking, Porter-Cable is my choice of tool. This router is another fine example.



5. A very good, powerful router. Good for big bits and heavy cuts. We use this router motor in conjunction with the Bench Dog lift and table to make a "mini shaper" for some special machining. Have bought and installed 5 of these routers. I just use the motor in the lift. I have not used the router on a base free hand. It is heavy. I would reccomend this model more use in a router lift or for a heavy duty operation like sink cutouts or pattern cutting. I think you buy this one for its power. The soft start takes a little getting used to. With the router lift and table you really need the switch Bench Dog makes to mount on their router tables. No way to see the switch on this router when it is upside down in a lift. Bench Dog sells a switch for their router tables that I will try.

5 comments about Bosch PR20EVSK Colt Palm Grip 5.7 Amp 1 Horsepower Fixed Base Variable Speed Router with Edge Guide.

1. I first wrote a 3 star recommendation for this, because the unit worked well in some ways--the small size is very handy--but it also seemed to me to have a design flaw. I took the tool back, because my initial impression was that the motor could not be secured firmly in the base. The result: a shifting depth of cut, as the vibrations made the motor move down. After I looked to other reviews and called a senior tech at Bosch, I see that the depth will not be fixed firmly until you twist the motor in the base just so. Not sure I can change the stars, but I see that I can change my text. I'd go 4 or 5 stars now.
   
   This still seems like an unfortunate fact about this tool. I suppose the manual spells it all out, and I could just blame myself. But it would be good if Bosch could flag this issue. Anyway, once past that, I think it's a great tool to own. If you only want to work wood, get the cheaper PR10, which is one (fast) speed. You'd only need to slow the router's speed for acrylic or something that might melt or burn at 35K rpm.
   
   One other shortcoming: can't use 1/2" shank bits. The Colt only takes the 1/4" bits, but that the case with all these small routers.



2. Delivery was very fast and product was exactly as described. Very satisfied with both.



3. Once you buy this you will use it more than you think. Bit changes are easy, depth adjust is easy. The included fence has been perfect for certain applications. I also bought the roller guide which is also a bonus to have. The soft start feels great in the hand as well as the finger holds on the base.



4. Small, lightweight, powerful, smooth and easy to use for small trimming and routing jobs. I have used it to roundover edges, form edges, mortise hinges and lock templates, and cut slots in plywood. Plenty of guts to get the job done. However, no matter how tight I make the clamp, this router eventually loses the bit's height adjustment. While rounding over the edge on a tabletop, the first side is flawless. Then, as I proceed to the second and third sides, the baseplate moves upward and the bit leaves a small edge on the edge that has to be sanded smooth. Also, the stop that holds the motor shaft while I loosen or tighten the collet does not function properly. I actually have to exert considerable force with just one finger on the stop button to keep the shaft locked so that I can tighten or remove the nut that holds the bit in the collet. The wrench that Bosch supplies is an ill-fitting one as well.
   
   This could have been better. Bosch stopped just short of getting it right in my opinion.



5. This is my second Bosch product and I must say I am hooked. This is one smooth, powerful, easily controlled router. The soft start feature is great. There might be a slight learning curve with the whole depth adjustment mechanism but it really seems to make sense. This is slowly becoming my "go to" router

5 comments about Bosch PR20EVSNK Colt Installers Kit 5.7 Amp 1 Horsepower Fixed Base Variable Speed Router with 4 Assorted Bases and Edge Guide.

1. I love this router. It is very light weight and powerful and the accessories are great. Love the variable speed. Only issue that Ihave is that after only 2 months of use, the spindle lock is broken and cannot be used to tighten or loosen the bits. I took a 3/8" wrench and thinned it downto fit the slot on the spindle and now uestwo wrenches to tighten/loosen the bits. Would have thought that Bosch would have made something that stood up a little better than this. Oh well, I still love the router.



2. This little router is very handy for jobs where light weight and compact size matter more than horsepower. It is not much bigger than a laminate trimmer and is much more versitile.
   
   I bought mine primarily for cutting hinge and strike plate mortises. I figured that the attachments that come with the kit would come in handy sooner or later. It was a lot cheaper to buy the kit than to buy the bare router and add the other parts a-la-carte.
   
   The small, rectangular sub-base provided allows you to work close to raised obstructions but it is too small to bridge the opening in hinge mortise templates. Be sure to buy a PR009 or PR010 sub-base with this router so that you have that capability. I chose the PR010 due to the ready availability of 1-3/16" guide bushings and the relatively poor reviews on Bosch's bayonet-mount bushings.
   
   The only reason for not giving this kit 5-stars is that Bosch did not anticipate the virtual necessity for a larger sub-base and provide room in the case for it.



3. I brought this to rout a groove where my walls meet my wooden floors, to fill with caulking and keep out ants. This is my first Bosch tool, and it has worked out great; I am very impressed with the quality of design and construction.



4. I have been a professional woodworker for 20 years. I had a Porter Cable Laminate trim kit that I loved, but it was stolen. I bought this because of the variable speed, detents in the tilt base, and more powerful motor. Unfortunately, the bases slip until you adjust the lock nuts, and it is a very fine line between too tight to adjust and too loose to hold. Worse than that, the darn thing is much louder than the PC kit. It is a good router, and comfortable to operate. Bosch routers are usually well crafted and bullet proof, so I suppose I'll get used to it. Wish I'd bought another PC, though.



5. This is without a doubt the best all around trimmer made. It can do almost anything asked of it. The attachments make quick work of itricate jobs. I would recommend it to anyone. It will be the last one you have to buy.

5 comments about Hitachi KM12VC 11 Amp 2-1/4 Horsepower Plunge and Fixed Base Variable Speed Router Kit with 1/4-Inch and 1/2-Inch Collets.

1. This is a great router set and there is nothing at this quality level which approaches this price. I have only used the router so far on a couple of projects, using both the fixed base and the plunge base, and the router performed very predictably. That is about the highest compliment that I can give, that it acted 'very predictably'. Whenever working with power tools, especially because of their potential to do serious bodily injury, you always want to feel like your tools are working as you expect them to. This instills confidence and keeps your work environment safe.
   
   The Hitachi router has a very smooth startup, quickly comes to speed, and is quite stable and suprisingly quiet in operation. So far from my limited use of the product it appears to have the power to plow through larger pieces of wood when using sizeable bits (in excess of 1") without straining the motor or losing speed. The electronic speed control works well and this is probably the quietest router I've ever used. So far I've been quite happy with the performance.
   
   The one aspect that I think keeps this from being a five star router is the need to use two wrenches to change bits. Although it is not really difficult to change bits with these wrenches it can be awkward, and for an advanced power tool it seems like this aspect of it is a bit rudimentary. I would have preferred to see a more sophisticated mechanism in place.
   
   So far everything else is great. The bases can be swapped out with each other in a matter of seconds and the depth settings and plunge stop are easy to set. Overall I am very pleased and look forward to many years of reliable use.



2. I bought this router when I decided to make my own trim for my house. I have two older routers, both of which only will do 1/4 inch shank bits. I have been impressed thusfar by its versatility and smooth operation. The variable speed is a great feature and being able to keep one base in the router table and use the other one for hand routing works like a dream. The only problem I have encountered thusfar is that the 1/2 inch collet doesn't want to let go of the bit when I change bits. I will order another collet as this one must be defective.



3. Value is the one one word that sums up this kit. I don't want to beat a dead horse, but I agree that you'll be hard pressed to find a better deal than this Hitachi kit. I've never used the Bosch that so many rave about, but I have used the Porter Cable kit and some old Craftsman fixed base routers. I'd put the Hitachi at about the same level as the Porter Cable. Better availability of accessories would put it at or above the PC in my opinion. It's solid and easy to use. The only two very minor gripes for me are the position of the on/off switch and the stiffness of the plunge base (I probably just need to lube it). The gripes aren't enough to warrant less than 5 stars though. I look forward to using this router for years to come!



4. This is a good deal, for a router with this HP. It is plenty powerful enough to run a panel raising bit. It also comes with two bases and a set of guide bushings. Very happy with it.



5. I've had this router for about a year and a half and have used it mostly with 1/4 inch bits but recently have started to use it with 1/2 bits. I've found that even though the bits and collet are clean, it just does not release the bits very easily. In fact, it's very hard to get the bits out sometimes. After a few times, the 1/2 collet came appart (the little fingers that tightened around the bit). Maybe I had a bad collet all this time but in the mean time I had to buy another router to finish a job (PC690) and must say that I love the way the PC690 feels much better than the Hitachi. The center of gravity of the Hitachi feels too high compared to the 690. Granted, the 690 has no variable speed which is nice in the hitachi. The other thing I've noticed while using a dovetail machine is that the plastic base of the Hitachi does not slide as easily as the one of the PC. Overall, it's a nice router but like someone else said, it seemed like a deal with the free random orbital sander and all.

5 comments about Bosch 1617EVSPK 12 Amp 2-1/4 Horsepower Plunge and Fixed Base Variable Speed Router Kit with 1/4-Inch and 1/2-Inch Collets.

1. I grew up in a cabinet shop, my dad built custom cabinets for a living since the 50's. I really struggled while reading reviews but bought this one. Lots of power, feels good in your hands, glad to have it.



2. I have been very pleased with this router for about 6 mo. It is smooth, powerful and I love the soft start. Well, honeymoon is over. The typical switch failure has bit me. I thought I could keep it clean and I wouldn't have the reported problems. No joy. Folks if you use this router in a table you WILL have a problem. Probably sooner rather than later. Now just replacing a switch may not be a problem for most, but for me it has caused me lost production, down time and shipping cost to repair facility. And now I wonder how soon it will fail again.
   I am going to replace this router with another brand and relegate this one to handheld use only and at that as a back-up. I just don't trust it. I hope my issues help someone else make a decision.



3. I gave it a 4 star review because the 1/4" collet was defective when I first used the router. The collet-router assembly was replaced and the new router worked just fine. There is nothing about the way it works that I can now fault. And I just love some of it's features.



4. So far,I've only used the plunge router (to make a router table) and it's done everything I've asked, routing perfect mortises, over and over. Plenty of power to do inch and a half deep mortises in three passes.



5. Very happy with this router works beautifully. Only comment is the way the case is designed it has already marred the wooden handles. No big deal just a shame.

5 comments about Porter-Cable 690LR 11 Amp 1-3/4 Fixed Base Horsepower Router.

1. The 690 was my first router that I bought years ago. I now own and use several, the one from amazon is the latest. I like have multiple routers each configured for a special task and the 690 is perfect for that. Has enough power for most woodworking jobs yet it is light and easy to use. I have one mounted in a Bench Dog portable router tableBench Dog 40-001 ProTop Contractor Benchtop Router Table and the others live in D-handle bases Porter-Cable 6911 D-Handle Base which are much better that the fixed base. Theses routers have worked and done everything I asked of them. Though they lack some of the finer features they are just a good solid reliable router workhorse.



2. Exactly what I wanted. Easy to use and understand its usage. I am a beginner and have already prefected confidence and some skill. Perfect for the around the house jobs that I bought it for. Only bad thing is that I am filling the house with cool looking shelves and furniture. But I guess that's a good thing.



3. Great little router for hand holding. Underpowered for table use, but can work with smaller bits. Note: this one does not come with a case.



4. I am a furniture maker who owns four other routers used for various purposes. This one was purchased exclusively to cut dovetails using an Omnijig, which eliminates setup time. The Amazon price and features of the machine made it attractive for this purpose. I do agree with other woodworkers who observe that the top mounted on/off switch forces you to hold the router with one hand while starting and stopping it, but this is easily accomplished if you hold the machine handle firmly. Typically excellent Porter-Cable product for woodworkers.



5. GOOD ROUTER FOR SMALL JOBS.ONLY ONE THIS WRONG.AFTER RUNNING SPEED CONTROL SWITCH SLOWS DOWN FROM VIB.HAVE TO TURN BACK UP ALL THE TIME.