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Old 04-24-2009, 06:56 PM   #1
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Router suggestions

I'm looking to purchase a router. I mostly would use it for deck handrails and a few odds and ends. I don't get into too much cabinet building or anything like that.

I'm thinking of this one.

Yay or Nay?

I would like to receive my new router in a week and I don't want to spend more than $150 right now as I don't see me using it too terribly often.

What do you guys suggest?

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Old 04-24-2009, 07:06 PM   #2
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That is a good machine, also consider portercable.

http://www.factoryauthorizedoutlet.c...oducts/691.asp
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Old 04-24-2009, 07:20 PM   #3
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I'll second the PC. No matter what accessory you buy in the future, it will fit a Porter Cable...and they are damned good routers too. If money is no object get a Festool 1400eq.
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Old 04-24-2009, 07:26 PM   #4
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You can't go wrong with Porter-Cable.



Do other companies make routers?
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Old 04-24-2009, 07:30 PM   #5
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I have 2 large makita's but always pickup my little bosch colt. Still plenty of power for deck rails.
Have not found anything yet that I said I wished I had used the larger router with. The spindle lock for bit change is crap but the router great, just use the wrenches.
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Old 04-24-2009, 07:31 PM   #6
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I use a Bosch colt router and I love it. It is small and compact, very easy to use and does a great job!!!
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Old 04-24-2009, 07:33 PM   #7
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I have always used Porter Cable 1 1/2 horse. Great router.
I have been using a 3 1/2 horse Milwaukee lately and it also is a great machine.
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Old 04-24-2009, 07:36 PM   #8
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Pc!!!!
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Old 04-24-2009, 09:42 PM   #9
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The porter cable's aren't built like they used to. Seems like the bearings wear out quickly. That said, for your budget and the little use you will give it, anything will do. Milwaukee should be okay...they have a 3 1/2 horse that I'm planning on getting. I bought a Bosch recently that is smooth as glass and the best I have had by far...that includes the porter cables.
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Old 04-24-2009, 10:47 PM   #10
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http://www.amazon.com/1618EVS-4-Hors...0631097&sr=8-1

This is one great router. If you are willing to spend a little extra. Also I would recommend the PC 895PK which I own. Maybe outta your price range but I have been extremely impressed and it has done well for 2 years of good usage with no issues
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Old 04-24-2009, 10:57 PM   #11
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I can't afford some of the tools listed but I can't afford to buy something less than PC either. PC has been very good to me.
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Old 04-24-2009, 11:10 PM   #12
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http://www.amazon.com/Porter-Cable-6...0632413&sr=8-4

http://www.amazon.com/Bosch-1617-Fix...632549&sr=8-43

a couple more options
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Old 04-24-2009, 11:31 PM   #13
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I'm also a Bosch fan. I have 2 for the shop...one with a "D" handle (great control) and the other is the kit that comes with a plunge base...

http://www.amazon.com/Bosch-1617EVSP...0633568&sr=1-2

Got the big PC in the router table and use the Colt for small work and laminates. You can't go wrong with any of the routers mentioned. The ability to do plunge cuts does come in handy.
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Old 04-25-2009, 06:48 AM   #14
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Thanks for all the suggestions guys. After a little more thought, I think the palm router will be a nicer way to go if I'm gonna use it for door slabs on the fly.

I found a deal on this. I think I'm gonna get it. I try to support CPO as much as possible because they have done well by me in the past and its almost always free shipping.
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