Fixed base or plunge router???

[joedodge]

I’m getting into basic wood working as something different to do from my daily job (diesel mechanic) and something to relax me. Do y’all recommend a a fixed base or plunge router for starting out on some basic projects?

 

[seber]

Definitely get a plunge router. It will save you from having to buy one for your second project.

 

[joedodge]

Excellent point. Didn’t think of it like that

 

[wayne55]

I don't use a router much, nor do I have much knowledge about them, but I just bought the Milwaukee kit that has both the fixed and plunge bases that you can switch.

 

[Parrothead]

My DeWalt kit has both too.

 

[Fbmoose48]

The reality is, if you really get into it, you'll end up with at least a half dozen or so routers.

Get a kit with both a fixed and plunge base, 2+ hp to start.

I'm partial to the Milwaukee routers, but I dream about the Festool. Bosch are nice as well.

Its really all about the bits. Whiteside only for me.

 

[joedodge]

Thanks for all the reply’s !!!!!

 

[Wamsutta]

Get the plunge router first, that way you can start a nice little project of making a tap and die storage case.

 

[joedodge]

That’s a killer idea actually!!!!

 

[catron44]

I would get the multi base kit. I have the dewalt kit ad its been great for the last 15 years. Fbmoose is right though. That router was just the beginning. I’m up to 7 just for my hobby use.

 

[johnnyradiant]

I have 6, 2 that take different bases. 2 laminate trimmers one taking 2 different styles of bases 2 fixed bases models of the small full size type - around 1hp, a 1-1/2 hp plunge or fixed base model with a couple modified base plates, and a 3-1/4hp plunge. They all serve their purpose. Most of mine are Porter Cable but they go back before they were sold off to DeWalt. When I got mine Bosch and PC were the 2 most common in my neck of the woods. Festool then probably had more people choke on their coffee upon seeing or hearing the price than they do now, but if you got a burn happening in your wallet....

For all around use a plunge is likely going to be the most versatile for you, if you can't go for one of the 2 in 1 kits.

 

[JMQ4]

Agree, get both, especially if you’re thinking of a router table. I’ve actually used nothing but porter cable for forever. Never thought about any others, but mine go back pre-Dewalt too.

 

[trekgod3]

+1 for a Dewalt kit with multiple bases, I have the dwp611 with both bases and it's awesome.

 

[ItsNemo]

I've got the DW618PK from Dewalt...fixed and plunge bases. Great router.

 

[ghnl]

A plunge router can also be used just like a fixed base but a fixed base router can't be plunged (easily). So either get both or start with a plunge router.

 

[joedodge]

Thanks for the great reply’s everyone. I will be getting a combo kit.

 

[6PTsocket]

Buy a kit. You will get the best deal on both. The fixed is especially useful in a router table. That is something you will quickly develop an interest in if you do much woodworking. The Bosch EV1617 is 2 1/4 hp and light enough for hand held and powerful enough to handle big bits in a table. It is very popular and well regarded. Take a look at the router thread for guys heavily into that subject.

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

 

[BikerDad]

'nother vote plunge first, preference would be a combination kit. Variable speed is your friend. The Bosch 1617EVS is a very, very good router, available in a kit.

 

[Hawk]

You are doing right by buying a multibase kit. When you see others on Clist or yard sales, buy one or two more. Some projects like edging are just a little bit better with a fixed base. You are less likely to lose a setting. I have 5 not including my edging router. On some projects it is just easier to leave a bit in a couple of routers until the project is completed.