Router Style Selection
Comments (0)Router Style Selection
With
so many routers available, sometimes it’s difficult to select the one that’s
right for you. By reviewing a few key base styles, our hope is to provide the
information needed to make your decision a little easier. We believe the selection
process should be application based, so the first thing you’ll have to ask
yourself is: what do I want to do with my router?
Base Styles:
In many ways, the style of base that is selected is just as important as the size of motor that goes along with it. With several styles available, selecting the one that’s right for you will depend on the projects or operations you plan on undertaking.
Fixed Base
This is the standard base. These bases
typically come with fixed handles or knobs on opposite sides of the base for holding
and guiding the router. While these
bases can be mounted to a router table, they are limited to edge routing
applications. This style base is also ideal for operations that utilize guide
bushings, like dovetail and box joint jigs.
This style base often incorporates a quick setting ring-style depth
adjustment.
Plunge Base
This style base is much more versatile in that it can be used for everything
that a fixed base can be used for, plus operations that require the bit be
plunged into the wood away from an edge. These bases are ideal for operations
like blind grooves, fluting, dado cuts and mortising operations. The mechanics of this style base are that the
motor will move up and down on machined spring loaded columns. A plunge base
traditionally offers multiple depth stop settings with micro-adjustments that
can be fine-tuned to your exact specifications.
D-Handle Base
Instead of two knobs, as on the standard
base, there’s a knob and a D-shaped handle that provides pistol-grip control
and a locking on/off trigger power switch
Special Note:
If you anticipate the need for utilizing multiple bases, keep in mind that most
manufacturers offer Combination Kits that incorporate a fixed base and a plunge
base in one prepackaged kit. This is a great option because you are essentially
getting two routers at price that is much less than buying two separate
routers.
As
you are reviewing your options, one more thing to keep in mind is the
compatibility of aftermarket accessories that are available for the router you
are looking at. While most manufacturers will offer basic accessories like edge
guides, router bushings, dust collection attachments and universal subbases,
advanced accessories like router lifts, router plates and template guides are
widely available but are brand/model specific.
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