Tool Test: Midsize Fixed-Base Routers
Great combination of power and control
Synopsis: On its own or teamed up with shopmade jigs, a fixed-base router can drill, shape, size, plane, and cut wood similar to the way big stationary equipment can. A midsize model is ideal for woodworking. Here, Marc Adams and staff members at his woodworking school evaluated eight routers for smoothness of cut, control and handling, accuracy, comfort of the grips, ease of handling, and ease of bit changes. In the end, several routers stood out.
Models tested: Bosch 1617EVS, Bosch MRF23EVS, DeWalt 618, Hitachi M12VC, Makita RF1101, Milwaukee 5616-20, Porter-Cable 892, Ridgid R22002.
A fixed-base router is an invaluable tool for woodworkers of every skill level. On its own or teamed up with shopmade jigs, this elegantly simple tool can drill, shape, size, plane, and cut wood similar to the way big stationary equipment can. If you don’t already have a fixed-base router, you should get one.
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