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+-- Thread: Want/Need New Router (/showthread.php?tid=7378663)
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RE: Want/Need New Router - fredhargis - 06-15-2025
Bosch is one of the few names that hasn't changed ownership (AFAIK) recently. Certainly worth consideration.
RE: Want/Need New Router - GaryMc - 06-15-2025
Another Bosch fan. 'Way back when I bought a 1617 with both fixed and plunge bases (and all the accessories thereto applying). This was when Bosch was using magnesium in the motor body and bases. Wasn't long until the motor body became all corroded and wouldn't slide in the bases. After a few fix tries with sanding and coating with paraffin, etc., I was about to throw the thing away when I wrote to Bosch to complain and behold, they sent a new entire motor (without magnesium). Been using it even since as well as the 1619 in the router table (no magnesium) ever since.
RE: Want/Need New Router - Bill Wilson - 06-16-2025
(06-14-2025, 05:22 PM)jteneyck Wrote: The easy on/off feature would be an advantage. But there must be some disadvantages as it doesn't look like many are sold compared to common two handled models. The unbalanced placement of your hands would be one issue, at least for me. Can you lock the switch on on the D-handled models? I would want to be able to do that.
John
I have a Dewalt 618. It was part of a 3 base kit that included the D-handle base. I use it exclusively for routing box joints with a PC jig. It does have a locking trigger switch in the handle. Works very well for this application.
RE: Want/Need New Router - jteneyck - 06-16-2025
(06-16-2025, 08:30 AM)Bill Wilson Wrote: I have a Dewalt 618. It was part of a 3 base kit that included the D-handle base. I use it exclusively for routing box joints with a PC jig. It does have a locking trigger switch in the handle. Works very well for this application.
Thanks for the feedback. Good to know.
John
RE: Want/Need New Router - Cabinet Monkey - 06-16-2025
(06-15-2025, 06:55 AM)Bill Holt Wrote: Actually, I've never used a D handle. Norm used the D handle, so why not...I have both plunge and fixed bases. To be honest, I just want to spend my money wisely. I had forgotten about Bosh; their jig saw and their angle grinder are standards.
Keep the responses flowing.
Don’t think you said what you’ll use this router on specifically so you may want to look at one of the trim routers like the DeWalt 611. Those would seem to fill a spot in your lineup that’s not already covered.
I also have a festool of1010 that I like and use regularly but I’m not certain I’d spend 600 buck on another one today if I lost it. It’s a quality router in your power range with lots of features an of course good dust management.
RE: Want/Need New Router - Bill Holt - 06-17-2025
(06-16-2025, 03:08 PM)Cabinet Monkey Wrote: Don’t think you said what you’ll use this router on specifically so ...For trim routers, I have the DeWalt 611PK and Makita 18V. The PC router that died had both size collets, so that is a big factor in my search. In my last project, I had 4 routers set up plus the router table. At 80, I may never need that many set ups at one time, but I want to be prepared.
I really appreciate all the comments on the D handle.
RE: Want/Need New Router - Cabinet Monkey - 06-17-2025
(06-17-2025, 07:05 AM)Bill Holt Wrote: For trim routers, I have the DeWalt 611PK and Makita 18V. The PC router that died had both size collets, so that is a big factor in my search. In my last project, I had 4 routers set up plus the router table. At 80, I may never need that many set ups at one time, but I want to be prepared.
I really appreciate all the comments on the D handle.
Then most / all of my previous suggestions are moot.
Now I’d recommend you look at the DeWalt or Bosch kits and make the decision based on feel in your hands. Lowes and Rockler carry both of them (a lot of stores anyway) to make a side x side comp.
RE: Want/Need New Router - thewalnutguy - 06-18-2025
(06-13-2025, 09:39 AM)jteneyck Wrote: I've never understood the benefit of a D-handle router, but maybe I'm missing something. I'd be more interested in the two handled version. But for $199 you could buy the Bosch 1617 kit with both a fixed and plunge base, or just the fixed base version for $149. I have two of them and they are easy to adjust, very smooth running with excellent speed control, and durable.
John
I've got two PC 690 routers. One came with a two-handled base, and I found a D handle base that replaced it. Also have a PC 150 which has a D handle. The handle switch can be locked "on" with a push button on the handle. All three of these routers have a switch on the motor as well. the 150 came with a kit which included a planer unit. My router table has a PC 7518 which of couirse requires use of an external switch. I prefer to use a foot operated switch for that, where I can use both hands for holding the work piece without having to reach for the switch. That what works for me, and at 85 I don't see wanting to change. I really don't like the switch on the motor rather than on the D handle.
RE: Want/Need New Router - Tapper - 06-18-2025
(06-17-2025, 07:05 AM)Bill Holt Wrote: For trim routers, I have the DeWalt 611PK and Makita 18V. The PC router that died had both size collets, so that is a big factor in my search. In my last project, I had 4 routers set up plus the router table. At 80, I may never need that many set ups at one time, but I want to be prepared.
I really appreciate all the comments on the D handle.
I mentioned in your last post that I had a couple of Makita routers (both D-handles) that I like a lot - picked them up used off of Ebay for bargain prices. Having said that, factoring in your seemingly aversion to this brand, I'll offer another recommendation for the Bosch 1617 kit. I have one and it is a very high quality product, just like most everything else Bosch makes. Plenty of power, soft start, smooth operation and the versatility of a kit. Also takes both size collets.
Good luck,
Doug
RE: Want/Need New Router - Mike in kc - 06-23-2025
Seems like there's quite a few Geezers here and at 83 I'm glad to see I'm in good company.
The suggestion about doing a side by side would seem to be a good idea if you don't really know what you want. I've not bought a router in probably fifteen years at least and quite honestly don't know whats out there.
I too have several PC 690s and use the D handled one quite a bit more than the other ones, but its nice to be able to have a few setups handy so you don't spend a lot of time swapping cutters. I also have a PC 7518 in the table lift. All of mine are getting up in years but keep on going. I also have a little Bosch trim router that I really like.