Click me to Order

Porter-Cable 7518 3-1/4 HP Speedmatic 5-Speed Router

When it's time to step up to a bigger router, Porter-Cable's 7518 should be on your list of contenders. It has as powerful a motor as you can find on a router and a reputation for accuracy and dependability. It's designed to work with bits as large as 4 inches in diameter and has electronic soft start and five speeds, to ensure that you'll be able to use those giant panel cutters safely and smoothly. The large bit capacity also makes it a great poor man's shaper when mounted on a good router table. Like most of Porter-Cable's routers, this model features their autorelease collet system, which does a good job of eliminating the problem of frozen bits and the need for rapping on the collet to remove them. Of all the routers we've tried, Porter-Cable's are among those with the lowest vibration and cleanest cuts. One thing we wish Porter-Cable would improve on is the lack of a spindle lock, which means that two wrenches--and potential knuckle wracking--are involved in bit changes. But given that a router's real value is measured by the results it produces, we'd still recommend the 7518 as one of the best routers available and a great choice for any shop. --Brian Trinen

Click me to Order

Porter-Cable 690P 1-1/2 HP Router

Simplicity and reliability are the key features of this 10 amp, 1-1/2-horsepower router. A true workhorse, it has become an industry standard, with features designed for durability and practicality. The motor has a machined aluminum housing for durability and heat dissipation and has 100-percent sealed ball bearing construction. The included 1/4-inch and 1/2-inch collets have an auto-release design that prevents router bits from becoming frozen or trapped in the collet after use. This eliminates the need to tap on the arbor to break the collet free, a practice that can damage the motor. Adjusting the bit depth is as simple as loosening a wing nut and turning the motor within the aluminum base. A micrometer ring on the base acts as a reference for fine adjustments to within 1/64 of an inch. The motor is also interchangeable with the no. 6931 plunge router base and the no. 6911 D-handle base for added versatility (sold separately). One year warranty with a 30 day performance certification.One year warranty with a 30 day performance certification. Includes motor no. 6902, base no. 1001, 1/4-inch collet no. 42999, 1/2-inch collet no. 42950, two collet wrenches no. 42596, and operator's manual

Click me to Order

Bosch 1617EVS 2 Horsepower Variable Speed Router

Bosch recently introduced routers that they claim have the highest power-to-weight ratio in the industry. We believe them. The 1617EVSB is one member of Bosch's new Magnesium line. This variable-speed router features a stout, 2-horsepower motor coupled with an all-magnesium base and housing. The result is a well-balanced and smooth-operating machine that offers fast results in demanding applications. We love the nicely finished hard-maple handles that make this router feel like a fine-woodworking tool. Something Bosch engineers are proudest of is what they call the "precision centering system," which makes the router bit track at true center. It's an important feature for multiple-pass applications, like jig cutting, and fine woodworkers will particularly appreciate it.

Click me to Order

Porter-Cable 693PK 1-1/2 HP Router and Plunge Base Kit

Can't decide whether to buy a fixed base router or a plunge base router? Get both! One motor fits both the fixed and plunge bases included in this kit, making is more versatile. Simplicity and reliability are the key features of this 10 amp, 1-1/2-horsepower router. The motor has a machined aluminum housing for durability and heat dissipation and has 100-percent sealed ball bearing construction. The included 1/4-inch and 1/2-inch collets have an auto-release design that prevents router bits from becoming frozen or trapped in the collet after use. This eliminates the need to tap on the arbor to break the collet free, a practice that can damage the motor. Adjusting the bit depth of when using the fixed base is as simple as loosening a wing nut and turning the motor within the aluminum base. A micrometer ring on the base acts as a reference for fine adjustments to within 1/64 of an inch. The plunge base has simple controls as well. A large locking lever and a depth stop with a six-position turret make setting the bit to the proper depth a breeze. Fully enclosed springs ensure smooth operation through the 2-1/2-inch plunge range. The motor is also interchangeable with the #1001 fixed router base and the #6911 D-handle base for added versatility. One year warranty with a 30 day performance certification. Includes motor #6902, fixed base #1001, plunge base #6931, 1/4-inch collet #42999, 1/2-inch collet #42950, two collet wrenches #42596, heavy-duty carrying case, and operator's manual.

Click me to Order

Makita RF1101 2-1/4 HP Variable-Speed Router

With a powerful 11 amp motor, this 2-1/4 hp router from Makita is one of the quietest, 81dB, and lowest vibration routers in their class. Its electronic speed control maintains constant speed even under load for smooth routing. With variable speed of 8,000 - 24,000 rpm, it features a rugged aluminum motor housing with a small 3-1/4-inch diameter, a sub-base that accepts industry standard template guides, and a durable flat top for stability when changing bits. There's also soft-start for smooth start-up, and an industrial cam-lock for fast and easy depth adjustment and removal of motor. Your purchase includes a 1/4- and 1/2-inch collet and collet wrenches.

Click me to Order

Milwaukee 5680 2 HP 12-Amp Router with 1/2" Collet

Professional carpenters appreciate the power Milwaukee routers deliver. The precision ground steel collet system secures router bits, reduces vibration and ensures accurate routing. The fast, accurate depth adjustment and heavy-duty base with large windows provide firm support and high visibility. The router has a flat top for resting the tool and changing bits. The spindle accepts 1/4-inch, 3/8-inch and 1/2-inch Milwaukee collets. The router has an 8-foot heavy-duty rubber cord for extended life. Includes 1/2-inch collet, one 7/8-inch and one 1-1/4-inch open end wrenches."

Click me to Order

DeWalt DW610F 1-1/2 HP Heavy Duty Fixed Base Router w/Universal Edge Guide

Includes a universal edge guide, for a limited time. The DW610F features a 1-1/2 HP Fixed Base Router with 1/4-inch and 1/2-inch collet. This router is ideal for edge work such as doors, cabinets and table tops. Features: powerful 9 amp, 100% ball-bearing motor for long life and trouble-free operation, precision rack-and-pinion depth adjustment calibrated in 1/64 in. increments, comfortable ball handles and nonmarring phenolic sub-base.Includes 1/4" and 1/2" collets and two wrenches.

Click me to Order

Milwaukee 5660 1-1/2 HP 10-Amp Router with 1/4" Collet

Professional carpenters appreciate the power Milwaukee routers deliver. The precision ground steel collet system secures router bits, reduces vibration and ensures accurate routing. The fast, accurate depth adjustment and heavy-duty base with large windows provide firm support and high visibility. The router has a flat top for resting the tool and changing bits. The spindle accepts 1/4-inch, 3/8-inch and 1/2-inch Milwaukee collets. The router has an 8-foot heavy-duty rubber cord for extended life. Includes 1/4-inch collet, one 7/8-inch and one 1-1/4-inch open end wrenches."

Click me to Order

Bosch 0601617061 220 Volt Single Speed Router (For Model 1617)

This 11 amp, 1-3/4 horsepower router is strong, lightweight, and made of all-magnesium construction. An exclusive precision centering system design means accurate, repeatable cuts at any depth setting. Features include a microfine bit depth adjustment with resettable indicator ring, and an adjustable sub-base.