Archive for the ‘Tool Comparisons’ Category

The Porter-Cable 698 is a Router Table without Motor. The table top is machined aluminum, lightweight but stable and measures out at a pretty generous 19-3/4 by 16-3/4 inches with a 3/4 inch miter gauge slot. There are two starter pin positions for folks who like to use them. As on most tables this size, the fence is a split design and while that has its detractors. Each section adjusts smoothly, giving flexibility in both front-to-back and lateral positioning. The table hole is large enough for a 3-1/2 inch bit and two inserts are included one with a large opening, the other small. The legs are a tad over a foot high, plenty of room for most routers and they’re wide and sturdy with predrilled holes on the bottom flanges.  $189.99

Porter Cable 698 Router Table

Large 19-3/4 inch x 16-3/4 inch machined aluminum table with cast-in lip to support extensions
3/4 inch miter gauge slot
Multiple starting pin locations
Quick-adjust split-fence design with independently adjustable halves
Large 3-5/8 inch table hole size allows use of 3-1/2 inch diameter router bits
Dust collection hood sized for 2-1/2 inch hose
12-7/8 inch leg height allows use of 1-1/2 to 3-1/4 HP routers

Wow, this is really a deal.  If you like the quality of Incra and you want a full size router table for under 500 bucks, this has it all.

All of INCRA’s new lineup of heavy duty router table tops, including the one in the RT Combo#4, feature a 1-1/4″ MDF substrate with a high pressure horizontal grade phenolic laminate top and bottom. With a total thickness of 1-3/8″, these tops are designed to support even the heaviest of production routers and lifts, and will work with any standard 9-1/4″ x 11-3/4″ mounting plate.

Rather than the typical router plate leveling set screws that dig into the table’s recess requiring constant re-adjustment, Incra’s plate leveling system puts flat head levelers in the table, not in the router mounting plate. Access to these levelers is through the 10 access holes located around the perimeter of the mounting plate. Just insert the hex key in the access holes and turn to adjust. After leveling, a simple quarter turn of the corner mounted Cam-Lock securely holds the plate in the router table’s recess.

All INCRA router tables are shipped with a 3/8″ solid aluminum router mounting plate featuring the exclusive Magna-Lock magnetic throat plate system. Changing any of the included throat plates is a snap with the Magna Lock System. Just drop in the selected plate. The high energy, rare-earth magnets hold the plate secure and perfectly flush every time. All of our mounting plates include 3 laser cut throat plates with a 1″, 2-1/8″ and 3-5/8″ opening.

INCRA Wonder Fence
A heavy-duty, one-fence solution designed for all your routing operations, shaping, edge-forming and precision joinery.

INCRA Shop Stop
Patented Automatic Positioning Control and micro adjustability mean instant, repeatable accuracy without measuring or trial and error setups.

Four Sliding Scale Template Channels
Two of the channels are used for primary (distance from the cutter) and floating (distance from the last cut) reference scales. This leaves two more template channels available for additional setups and cutting operations without altering the scale positions.

INCRA JUMBO Right Angle Fixture
The Right Angle Fixture is used to hold your workpiece perpendicular to the table surface during end grain cutting operations.

Includes-Incra Precision Tools RT COMBO#4

This is the RM605 Router table by Router Table Depot.  It is a unique table and I don’t think there is one quite like it anywhere.  What makes this table unique is the hardwood trim that goes around the table.  Instead of putting a plastic trim, which is fine, they elected to trim it in 3/4″ maple or oak.  This makes for a very attractive table.  Currently they offer it with an acrylic insert.  I understand that the Router Table Depot brand aluminum insert does fit the  table.  It would probably be wise to get the extra insert and have one acrylic and one aluminum.  You could drill each to different routers if you like.  This really makes a killer looking top if you elect to build your own cabinet.  But it does come with the steel stand.  If you were to go hog wild, you could enclose the stand and make your own cabinet.  $329.97

Top

• 31 1/2″ x 22 5/8″ top
  
• 1 1/2″ thick
  
• Laminate covered (vacuum pressed)
  
• Maple hardwood
  
• Commercial grade MDF
  
• Custom fit for our deluxe insert
  
• Mitre and fence track installed
  

Insert

• Accepts Porter Cable style bushings 1 1/4″ opening
  
• Adjustable ring system so you can use large bits or small
  
• 2 5/8″ and 4″
  
• Acrylic, with levelers
  
• Directions to mount your router to this insert are under the “directions” tab
  

Fence

• Split fence design for maximum adjustability
  
• 1″ thick with T-track both sides.
  
• 18″ long fence extensions
  
• 32″ aluminmum core, 3″ opening
  
• Router bit guard included
• Dust Port Included
  

Stand

• Easy Assembly
  
• 27″ x 19″ x 33“

You can find this Router Table here.

Bosch makes a couple of router tables to compliment their own router table line.  I really wish they would make a full size router table to go head to head with their competitors.  The top is aluminum and the base is a heavy duty plastic, which is fine.  It has all the features of a full size table just in smaller size.  For example, the miter track is not what we call industry standard.  It is smaller and does not use the traditional 3/4″ accessories you can find in other stores.  While we are on the subject of industry standard, let’s talk about sizes.  When a company makes an “industry standard” gauge or accessory, it is milled or intended to fit the standard of the industry so you can mix and match.  Sometimes things are off by 1/100th and they end up not working for you.  Does that make it junk?  by all means no, it just means that the milling specs were a tad different for that vendor than for everyone else.  After all a 2×4 does not really measure 2″ by 4″ right?

The Bosch RA1181 Benchtop Router Table provides a premium large work surface for woodworking and routing. Designed to fit a variety of routers and able to mount on any workbench, this router table is a versatile piece of equipment that will serve as an indispensable part of any woodworking shop. And its 2-1/2-inch dust collection port offers better dust collection for a healthier work environment. The large aluminum top makes the table both durable and portable. $229

Designed for Versatility and Precision
Thanks to its versatile design, the RA1181 lets you work with a variety of materials while ensuring precision with every cut. With a tall aluminum fence measuring 4-7/8 x 25-1/8 inches (HxL), the table handles tall stock with ease. The fence also features adjustable MDF face plates for better support and smoother operation.

The rigid aluminum router mounting plate stays flat and true for precise, accurate cuts, and for added versatility, it’s pre-drilled to fit a variety of routers.

The easy-to-use featherboards attach to the fence and table and are fully adjustable to fit a variety of workpieces. They provide additional support and control while feeding stock across the routing table.

Dust Collection Port and Accessory Slot
The RA1181′s powerful dust collection system excels at dust removal. It features one dust collection port for removing dust and debris, and it fits standard-sized 2-1/2-inch vacuum hoses.

Use the accessory slot to add additional featherboards, as well as 3/4-inch optional accessories, such as any miter gauge measuring 3/4 inch x 3/8 inch deep.

The RA1181 Benchtop Router Table measures 27 x 14-1/2 x 18 inches (WxHxD) and weighs 30 pounds. It has a maximum fence opening of 3-3/16 inches and a maximum throat opening of 3-5/8 inches. It is backed by Bosch’s one-year limited warranty, 30-day money back guarantee, and one-year service protection plan.

What’s in the Box
RA1181 Benchtop Router Table, set of three mounting-plate insert rings, mounting hardware, two adjustable featherboards, adjustable clear guard, starter pin and guard, and two 1/16-inch outfeed fence shims.

• Benchtop router table; attaches to any workbench
• 2 adjustable featherboards; dust collection port; dual outlet switch; 6-foot power cord
• Aluminum fence with MDF face plates; aluminum router mounting plate
• Includes router table, 3 mounting plate insert rings, mounting hardware for most Bosch routers, 2 featherboards, adjustable clear guard, starter pin and guard, outfeed fence shims
• 27-inch by 18-inch work surface; 1-year warranty

BOSCH RA1181 Benchtop Router Table

This is a router table combo deal, you really do not see much of them at all any more. I will have to find some more of these types of table out there since they are a package that is ready to go and is very handy for most woodworkers.  Includes Freud’s FT2200E Plunge router, adjustable fence and aluminum insert.

• Includes Freud’s FT2200E 3 1/4 hp 15 amp variable speed router w/soft start, 10,000 to 22,500 rpm, electronic speed control, micro adjustable depth control, and 1/2 inch and 1/4 inch collets included
• SH-5 micro adjustable fence to .001 inch. Includes dust collection port, MDF fence faces, chip guard, and mounting screws
• Premium 9 x 12 aluminum insert plate that won’t sag under heavy weight router. Precision machined for flatness and an 8-point leveling system for a flush fit. Comes with two snap down rings and starter pin
• Sturdy 16 gauge steel stand. Height adjusts from 32 to 38 inches and comes with rubber leveling feet and a large 31 1/2 inch x 23 1/2 inch x 1 inch laminated MDF table top.
• 5 year limited warranty on the FT2200E Router. 60 days warranty on fence, table top, and legs

From the Manufacturer
Freud’s new router / table combo package makes it easy to set up a professional router table system. For one price you receive Freud’s FT2200E 3 1/4 HP 15 amp electronic variable speed router with soft start, SH- 5 micro-adjustable router fence to .001 inch and built in dust collection port, a large 31 1/2 inch x 23 1/2 inch x 1 inch table top constructed of high pressure laminate with MDF core and 3/4 inch t-track, a 9 x 12 aluminum insert plate that won’t sag under weight of heavy router and precision machined for flatness, and a sturdy 16 gauge steel stand adjustable in height from 32 to 38 inches. Includes rubber leveling feet to ensure table is level.

There are a lot of thoughts about putting a plunge router into a router table.  Some people do and some dont.  I am a big fan of buying combo kits that have both bases so that you can keep the fixed base in the table and use the plunge base around the shop.  There is a really good article about this very subject that will help you decide which base type to get. The article is a two parter and a great read.   Routers for router tables.

Freud RTS5220 Router/Table Combo Package. Includes FT2200E Router, SH-5 Micro-Adjustable Fence, Aluminum Insert Plate and Sturdy 16 Gauge Steel Stand

Kreg sells a min version of their full sized route table that is sure to give you all the great qualities of their larger table.  You will be able to tackle any project with this router table and stow it under your workbench when you are done.

• 16-inch by 24-inch Impact resistant Easy-Slide Micro Dot Work Surface
• Rigid heavy-duty aluminum extrusion fence with independent sliding faces for use as a vertical jointer
• Rugged stamped steel foundation with vibration dampening rubber-feet
• Bottom up insert plate levelers feature 8 adjustable points of contact
• Large 3/8-inch thick phenolic insert plate

There are three customer reviews for this table from Amazon, they are as follows

1.  Good Overall

2. Not bad, but could be much better.,

3.  bench top model is sturdy and easy to move when needed

Kreg PRS2000 Precision Benchtop Router Table

Kreg’s full size router table is no slouch in the industry.  You will find powerful features and a fully capable table that can handle any type of project you throw at it.  It has a study steel stand like Bench Dog and a great aluminum plate.  A full sized fence with dust collection tops off a great router table.

• Fully enclosed heavy-duty aluminum fence provides unmatched rigidity, strength and precision to your router top and helps to maintain an enclosed vacuum for superior dust collection.
• Professionally edge-banded MDF top absorbs vibration and noise like no phenolic top can. It features an Easy-Slide Micro-Dot skin – made from an impact resistant high-pressure laminate – which makes it easy to slide work pieces across the surface.
• 9 1/4-Inch x 11 3/4-Inch x 3/8-Inch thick phenolic insert plate works with any router and comes with unique bottom-up levelers with 8 adjustable points of contact.
• Two fully independent fence faces and dual acrylic depth setting rods quickly turn your router into a vertical jointer to allow for jointing depth adjustments of 1/16-Inch and 1/32-Inch.
• Universal steel stand is made from heavy gauge steel, includes 4 leveling feet and is adjustable from 31-Inch to 36–Inch.

There were 5 reviews for the table, these are the highlights of those reviews from Amazon.
Kreg PRS1040 Precision Router Table System

1.  Excellent Router Table for the money!

2. Five stars for the product

3.  Sweet table!

4. Very Nice

5. Excellent value for the money!

Keep in mind this table will ship in three boxes.  Today with heavy items such as router tables, shipping damage is prevelant.  If you seperate the stand from the top and fence you will cut down on the amount of damage that may occur.  You have to remember the human element in the shipping equation.

Rocklers Package #2 with Steel Stand from Bench Dog

Bench Dog ProTop Tabletop
With solid-phenolic construction, the 23-1/4″ x 31-1/2″ ProTop offers rugged durability and a low-friction surface for years of enjoyable use. An innovative recessed Dual-Track features a standard miter track as well as a Universal T-track that accepts accessories with 1/4″ and 5/16″ t-bolts, and 1/4″ hex bolts. An 8-point leveling system supports the heavy-duty aluminum plate, keeping it flush and secure throughout your cut.

Bench Dog 32″ ProFence
3-1/2″ tall, with a precision-machined aluminum frame for total flatness. Front and back T-tracks accept 1/4″ t- bolts, 5/16″ t-bolts and 1/4″ hex bolts. Includes bit guard, adjustable melamine-coated MDF faces with T-slots, and dust port.

Bench Dog Steel Stand
With 1/8″ thick steel components, this 18″ deep x 24″ wide x 32″ tall stand includes four adjustable levelers and all assembly hardware.

Bench Dog Router Plate
Six options to accommodate virtually any router. All plates fit in the ProTop’s 8-1/4″ x 11-3/4″ opening. Determine which Group your router falls into (below) and select a package accordingly. If your router is not listed below, our two blank-plate options allow you to drill mounting holes to match your router.

The Table has 4 reviews and is highly regarded in the industry.  Bench Dog does not cut any corners and has always been regarded with good design.

You can find it here Bench Dog Router Table

Every once in a while you see a new kid on the block. This one intriqued me since it is not your normal offering. I choose to review the larger of the two since most woodworkers like the most bang for their buck. Right off the bat you can see that some thought (finally) went into the design of the table. There are some neat features right that I will list next.

• Quick Clamp mount and mounting plate. You mount a quick clamp mounting plate to your routers base and that clicks into the table assembly. There is no router insert on this table other than the quick plate. This will eliminate the need to flush mount your plate or eliminate the fact that the insert could sag. It will not because you dont have one. Also this eliminates the fact of eventually replacing the insert because you dropped it on the floor, which you would eventually do:)
• Router bit height is controlled by the router. There is no lift mechanism for the table. So if that is a feature you must have, you will be disappointed here. On that note, I am not sure why everyone wants to have the ability to make adjustments above the table. To me its a luxury that I would rather spend money on something else. So I have to adjust the router under the table, big deal.
• Feather boards are included. This is nice since you would have to go out and spend $20 to get some and then make sure they fit.
• MDF top with laminate. Nothing new under the sun here, it is industry standard on a lot of tables. 26″ x 16.5″
• Foldable legs. This is nice if you want to fold up the table and store it under a bench. There is also some storage capability in the legs for some smaller items such as your router collet wrench. This can come in handy if you have a habit of putting things down and then later search for them.
• Starter pin and bit guard included
• Split fence with dust collection. The Dust port is2 1/2″
• On/off switch in the front of table
• Miter gauge and miter track.
• $158.97

Soon we will give a project overview and some project feedback combined with a Skil 1810 1 3/4 Router.

Fits these routers:

Bosch 1617, Fixed base only

Craftsman 17508, 17541, 17542, 26620, 17533, 17528, 17511, 26834, 28190

DeWalt 616, 618 Fixed Base Only

Hitachi M12VC

Makita RF1100, RF1101

Porter Cable 690, 7529 Plunge, 892-895 Series of fixed base only.

Skil 1810, 1815, 1820, 1825

And now available at Skil RAS900

Are you the type of guy that wants to buy something once, and never again?  For some tools , I find myself doing just that.  If I know the tool I really don’t want to buy a inexpensive one to see if I like it.  If it is something I know I am going to use a lot, I go out and buy something that I know my kids will fight over when I am dead.  Certain big items like table saws, router tables, drill presses, band saws and dust collectors all fit this mindset (for me).  Although expensive ,this top is one of those items where you buy once and you never have to think about replacing it.  Its heavy duty and will last several lifetimes if you take care of it.  Quality is not an issue with this since your really cannot due a whole lot to damage a cast iron top.  This one tops out at $429, and you have to purchase an insert and a fence.  See the product review at the bottom.

Features and Specs:

Do you need the toughest router table top on the market?  Then look no further than the Bench Dog 40-100 cast iron table top.

This cast iron top is heavy duty, it will meet all your expectations for any project that you can throw at it.  It is a solid one piece unit weighing in at 100lbs.

• machine ground to .008
• 12 point leveling and locking capabilities
• Fits both Baltic Birch Cabinet and the Steel ProStand
• Dual track miter and t-track, molded into top.
• Fence Slots fit Pro Fence 32
• This model number (40-100) is for the top only, Insert is sold seperately

If your looking to order the top and the fence, that item number is called the Bench Dog Pro Max 40-301, Cast Iron table and fence combo

If your looking to order this top, Pro Fence and Pro Cabinet, that is called the Bench Dog RT Complete 40-300

I also found a helpful review on Amazon that gives some good insight to the stability issue I mention above.  This is a amazon product review.  When I find more, I will reference them here.

A couple years ago I spent nearly $300 on a Rockler MDF router table. I thought I was buying quality – wrong. After about a year the blasted thing warped with just the weight of the router. It now has a bow of about 3/16″ from the sides to the center. Talk about disappointing. You can’t do quality routing on a warped router table.

So, I went on a determined search to find a quality router table. I had decide that if I couldn’t find a commercially available unit I would have one custom made. But I wasn’t wasting any more money on junk.

Lo’ and behold I found that Benchdog makes a cast iron router table. $429 Sounds expensive but not when you consider that junk costs 2/3rds of that…it’s inexpensive in the long run.

I’ve been using it now for several months. This is one nice router table. I customized it a little bit because I needed to mount it to my work bench to accommodate my Incra micro-adjustable split router fence. The support table frame that I bought with it is also quality. I drilled two holes in the cast iron edge and bolted it to my (heavy) work bench. The set up works great. I do precision routing with this setup and am very pleased with the stability of the entire set up.

Note well since it is cast iron, it will rust. So, I clean it with Windex with ammonia, then spray a wax based corrosion inhibitor which also lubricates the surface (between uses). Note well, this router table weighs about a 100 lbs.

I also purchased the Benchdog router lift. Very nice. My first experience with a router lift. the only caveat is that the lift will not raise the router high enough to change bits. You have to lower the router and change bits below the table. Overall, I am extremely pleased.