compact router
- Thread starter pjboy
- Start date
LeeG
Well-known member
I use the Dewalt DWP611. Mine came with a couple of bases. I also have a Ryobi that I keep a 1/16" round over bit permanently installed in. The Bosch Colt is also well rated. Make sure you get one with a spindle lock - it makes changing bits less of a hassle.
rlitman
Well-known member
I've got the Bosch Colt and like it, though there are probably better options out there.
Spindle lock does help. But they've been known to shear on the Colt, and probably on others as well. It is important to be sure it is FULLY depressed before using the wrench. If it's only partway in, you'll easily break it and be forced back to two wrenches.
Variable speed is a MUST. The cheaper model Colt (without the rubber grip) is missing this.
If I were buying today, I'd see if something has a light. I've got one router with that, and find it quite nice to have. The DeWalt has this, the Bosch does not.
First thing I did to my Bosch Colt was remove that stupid square base and put on a proper round base that accepts standard metal collars.
Spindle lock does help. But they've been known to shear on the Colt, and probably on others as well. It is important to be sure it is FULLY depressed before using the wrench. If it's only partway in, you'll easily break it and be forced back to two wrenches.
Variable speed is a MUST. The cheaper model Colt (without the rubber grip) is missing this.
If I were buying today, I'd see if something has a light. I've got one router with that, and find it quite nice to have. The DeWalt has this, the Bosch does not.
First thing I did to my Bosch Colt was remove that stupid square base and put on a proper round base that accepts standard metal collars.
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TheGrooveking
Well-known member
I have the variable speed Bosch Colt, the Makita and the DeWalt, the Makita and DeWalt came with multiple bases and they have lights which illuminate the router bit while cutting, which the Colt doesn't. I did experience a broken 1/4" collet in my Colt and all I was doing was light work in soft wood, I wrote it up to bad heat treating, the replacement collet had no issues.
Of the three, the feel of the Colt I like the best but I don't think you'll go wrong with either of the three compact routers I have.
TheGrooveking
Of the three, the feel of the Colt I like the best but I don't think you'll go wrong with either of the three compact routers I have.
TheGrooveking
guy48065
Well-known member
First off are you seeking a one-handed trim router, or a compact full-power router?
So far your answers are on both sides of that fence.
So far your answers are on both sides of that fence.
bcradio
Well-known member
Ridgid here is what I prefer.
Second ^^^^^^ (if looking for a "palm" router)
The Ridgid R24011 is better then every common compact router out there, and at a great price point.
Do yourself a favor and check it out.
OH! Looks like they are running the combo special again!, Free 1/4 sheet sander w/ router purchase- killer deal.
http://www.homedepot.com/p/5-5-Amp-Trim-Router-with-Free-1-4-Sheet-Sander/202488411
The Ridgid R24011 is better then every common compact router out there, and at a great price point.
Do yourself a favor and check it out.
OH! Looks like they are running the combo special again!, Free 1/4 sheet sander w/ router purchase- killer deal.
http://www.homedepot.com/p/5-5-Amp-Trim-Router-with-Free-1-4-Sheet-Sander/202488411
Packard V8
Well-known member
Agree, important difference in how they're used and how they're designed.
FWIW, I've noticed the good-for-the-price Chicom/big box/internet routers have totally killed the market for older made-in-USA routers. I've had perfectly good used compact Black & Decker, Skill and Stanley routers on craigslist for $25 and gotten not a single call.
Ridgid has the orange bling going, but does anyone expect one to survive commercial use for twenty-five years? The good old stuff did.
jack vines
rlitman
Well-known member
I did a little searching, and it seems that Bosch has a new Colt model out that fixes some of my complaints:
Search for GKF125CEK. It seems that Lowes is selling it.
It has a new improved depth adjustment, LED light, and clear round base (though the base seems a little small, and I don't know if it fits standard collars).
Search for GKF125CEK. It seems that Lowes is selling it.
It has a new improved depth adjustment, LED light, and clear round base (though the base seems a little small, and I don't know if it fits standard collars).
dutchgray
Well-known member
We have the Makita at work, came with 3 bases in their stacking box system.
Does the job and was reasonably priced.
Does the job and was reasonably priced.
TheGrooveking
Well-known member
First off realize the compact routers are not going to handle 1/2" shank router bits, depending on what wood you are working on how much you are removing. If you are planning routing 3/4" dados or large winged bit trying to do raised panels you will need a larger machine that has two handles or at least a D handle router.
TheGrooveking
TheGrooveking
Ainsley
Well-known member
I have both Bosch colts, the variable and the single speed. I leave a 1/8" round over setup in the single speed because I use it regularly.
I also have a full sized Bosch with a plunge, fixed and table mounted base, good for the heavy work but I go to the colts more often than not.
I also have a full sized Bosch with a plunge, fixed and table mounted base, good for the heavy work but I go to the colts more often than not.
metaldad
Well-known member
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