Inexpensive router suggestions

[rd65]

My FIL gave me a couple pieces of formica that I am going to use on my workbench tops. Last time I did this I borrowed a router from my brother, this time I plan on just buying something. I recently saw one in my HF email, Hercules I think, for $109. I dont want to break the bank, and I dont want battery powered as I will rarely be using it. What are brands to stay from? Anything on Amazon worth a look or is that Hercules decent?

 

[shawhite]

How thick is the material? If it’s just Formica with no backer I would lean towards a palm router like the Bosch Colt. If it has a mdf backer you may want to look for something bigger like a Bosch 1617. I personally like Bosch routers if you couldn’t tell.

 

[rd65]

How thick is the material? If it’s just Formica with no backer I would lean towards a palm router like the Bosch Colt. If it has a mdf backer you may want to look for something bigger like a Bosch 1617. I personally like Bosch routers if you couldn’t tell.

At this point it is just the formica. But I figure if I am going to buy a router I may as well get a full size rig. Right?

 

[The Cobbler]

for finishing formica, a small easily handled router is best. if you want to do heavier stuff, really consider 2 tools as they each have sort of different requirements as per size.
In my opinion, there's not really a 1 size fits all here.

 

[shawhite]

At this point it is just the formica. But I figure if I am going to buy a router I may as well get a full size rig. Right?

You can absolutely use a full-size router to flush trim Formica and if I had to only have one router it would be my 1617. But generally this project would be handled by a palm router like the Colt. Either way you are going to run a flush cut bit with a guide bearing

 

[nbpt100]

Inexpensive is usually Harbor Freight.

Cheapest is $59.99

Routers & Cutout Tools - Harbor Freight Tools

Harbor Freight routers & cutout tools cut with precision and power. Perfect for most wood shaping applications and making fast cuts in a variety of materials.

www.harborfreight.com

Do not discount used. Especially if you are only going to use it once or twice. Or a handful of times. Look on CL or FBMP in your area. You may get a good brand for less than a HF new.

 

[dnschmidt]

Bosch Colt. Ideal for this application and the price is little different from the HF Hercules you listed and I've actually seen it cheaper than that.

 

[Packard V8]

Take your best shot at the big box store and I'll mail you a better router for half that price. You can even choose between a small laminate trim or a full-size.

jack vines

 

[tarbellb]

Ideal all around router is the mid size 1-2hp, definitely don't need a 3hp unless you're building doors and serious series ww. And a trim router is just to limiting.

I've never had much luck finding a good deal on used.

It's all about the depth adjustment usability, that should guide your choice.

 

[ohhimark]

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07P8P2HZW/?tag=atomicindus08-20 I have two of those, and slightly prefer them to my Bosch 1617:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00005RHPD/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[kaymccampbell]

I've had the HF. Don't. Though they do make great target practice.
Get the Bosch. 1613 or 1617. The fingers you save will be your own.

 

[Dave455]

Another vote for a dedicated router / trimmer, assuming that’s the use you had in mind.

They are the perfect tool for the job, even a good quality one is relatively inexpensive, and even if you end up with another router at a later date, these are still perfect for the job intended.

I have this Makita, and love it. I’m in the U.K. but these can be had for the equivalent of $63 here so I doubt they are much different in the U.S.

Given the speed routers spin at, and the potential dangers, I wouldn’t personally want to go too cheap on one of these. Same applies for the cutters, so that’s something to budget for too.

 

[dogdog]

Trim routers, Bosch ridgid are good
Hf works but keep in mind cheaper routers takes longer time to setup so….. I like my Makita but really wanted that ridgid router for $40 more. They are trim routers.

 

[PoorUB]

A used Porter Cable 690. At one time they were the bench mark for routers. A used one in good serve will serve you well.