Looking to purchase a router

[AggieBrandon]

Hey guys, I'm looking to purchase a router in the next week or so. This will be for personal use just for things around the house. I eventually want to try my hand at acrylic work so the router I purchase needs to be up to par for this as well. I was looking on the Lowes website and they have several 2.25 hp router kits that come with both the fixed base and plunge base. My question is which brand that they sell would be the best buy. I have used several dewalt tools and have been happy with them but I have heard that other brands are better. If you guys have a chance to check out their site please let me know what you think is the best buy.

Thanks.

B

 

[okdave]

I have several routers. My favorite is my Porter Cable. Also good are the Hitachi, and Dewalt models. Do a search on pricerunner.com to find the best online prices and to explore all the different models. Often you can find a special or a good deal on a package.

 

[AggieBrandon]

Thanks for the link. I checked out the Hitachi and Dewalt and am still up in the air on what model I like more. I'll check into the porter cable models.

B

 

[agfahy]

Although I've only owned 1 personally, I've used several models of Porter CAble. These are tried and true. Can't beat the price either. $99 for the general use and $249 for the 3 1/2 HP variable speed.
Dewalts are what we use at our aviation shop here in KS and they are great for a few years and then always throw a bearing.
Avoid Ryobi like the plague!
Ridgid is a great brand as well but I would be sceptical when it comes to precision routes. We've used these for about a year now with only 1 bad drill press.
Good luck.

 

[okdave]

I have my Hitachi set up on a router table. It is a big plunge router and is a bit bulky. If you can get a good deal on the porter cable kit go for it. It comes with all the attachments you will ever need.

 

[AggieBrandon]

are you talking about the porter cable kit they have listed on the lowes site?

 

[okdave]

Zap the url on a post and I will check it out.

 

[GlassReef]

You might want to consider the Bosch set 1617EVSPK. It's generally considered to be one of the best by woodworkers - most think it's better than Dewalt. Do a search for the model number at Woodnet.com to get a feel for its rating. I've had one for 3 years and love it. Use it all the time on acrylic. Price at places like Amazon.com is approx. $215.

 

[AggieBrandon]

http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productDetail&productId=127695-546-893PK&lpage=none

 

[AggieBrandon]

Ok they have the bosch kit at lowes I'll check it out too.

B

 

[okdave]

Yep, that is a nice one if you need the power if youintend to be working with a lot of hardwoods. My overall favorite, because it is lighter, variable speed, and just a pleasure to work with in the Porter Cable line is http://www.maxtool.com/products/Porter-Cable/690LRVS.asp

 

[AggieBrandon]

well I figure if I am going to buy one I might as well spend a little more and get the router with the most horse power. I don't want to get down the road and then say I should have gotten the other one. I guess that makes sense.

B

 

[okdave]

I know what your saying. You can't go wrong with the 893. It is a great router.

 

[AggieBrandon]

excellent....I am hoping to go look at them today...I have been remodeling a house and new toys are always nice to get

Thanks dave you're ok

 

[G-man17]

If you're not in a rush don't forget to check e-bay. Occasionally someone is selling something that is brand new for an excellent price. I found a NIB Porter Cable 8529 for $140 (retails for around $220 online). Also check out www.portercableoutlet.com for some good prices.

 

[AggieBrandon]

Thanks G-man17

 

[rivdog]

I recently purchase the hitachi km12vc at amazon for 154.00. Its nice, 2.25hp, and has the plunge and fixed bases. Also comes with a template guide set. Just got it last week so i havent used it yet.