Popular Woodworking 2000-11 № 118, страница 52
its simple, flat base that mounts to the motor and is adjustable in height to raise or lower the bit in relation to the work-piece. With motor ratings ranging from 6.5 to 15 amps, these routers operate at top speeds of around 25,000 rpm, and some offer variable speed control. Usually affixed with interchangeable V4" and V2" collets, these routers are capable of the great majority of routing applications, including use in router tables. Prices range from $70 to more than $300, but with the most common 10- and 12-amp models in the $170 range. Fixed-base routers come in two different designs. There's a two-knob design (that could have large or small handles) or you can purchase a design commonly called a D-handle router. The D-handle also has two handles, but one is a full-grip handle, usually with a built-in trigger. This allows you to operate the router without moving your hands from the handle, making the operation safer and more convenient. A D-handle base also changes the balance and feel of the tool. Some say it's for the better; some prefer a standard base. Check the feel for yourself. Plunge Routers Designed to extend the capabilities of the standard fixed-base router, plunge routers allow you to easily raise and lower the bit while the motor is running, which is great for stopped grooves, mortising or template work. With the motor mounted on spring-loaded posts, these routers also offer more precise depth control than most fixed-base models. Plunge routers are available in much the same amperage and price ranges as fixed base routers, with a couple of high-end models going a little higher in price. Some woodworkers do all their work with a plunge router. In fact, in Europe it's almost impossible to buy a fixed-base router. Features:Collets Collets are very similar to the chuck on a drill in function, though they're a lot more simple. A router collet has an inner conical sleeve with divided fingers on one end, and an outer sleeve (or nut) that threads over the inner sleeve. The outer PW OmmenKo: The following routers have been tested or used by the editors of Popular Woodworking and have earned their recommendation. Occasional User For the woodworker on a tight budget or who wants to test the waters first, the new Black & Decker RP400K plunge router offers a 10 amp motor; electronic variable speed, integral dust extraction, rack-and-pinion height adjustment and a spindle lock.Though limited to a 14" collet, at $99 this is a very good introductory router value. If you prefer to own both fixed and plunge base routers but still feel restrained by price,The Porter-Cable 693PK is a 10-amp 690 router that has interchangeable fixed and plunge bases. Selling for a little over $200 this is a great all-purpose router for the occasional or serious woodworker; Serious Home Woodworker We recommend the Makita RD1101, 11-amp, variable speed, D-handle router, selling for around $289. While new to the market, we feel that the user-friendly base release, and high power with low vibration, linked with Makita's reputation for building great motors, will make this a strong player in the fixed-base arena. For a plunge router we recommend the DeWalt DW 621 ($220). This 10-amp tool offers just the right size for convenient handling, integral dust collection (that is efficient and non-intrusive) and a well-designed depth adjustment. Overall, it's a superb machine and has passed Popular Woodworkings Endurance Test. Advanced Woodworker or Professional Most woodworkers in this category will do well to use the Makita and DeWalt routers listed in the previous category and add a couple of specialty routers to their inventory The Bosch 1608 trim router in the four-base configuration (1609AKX for around $245) is a fine addition.Also a larger plunge router for more demanding tasks is appropriate.We suggest either the Hitachi M12V or the Porter-Cable 7529 to fill this bill. Both are priced at around $245. HOW TO BUY ROUTER BITS It's a good time to shop for router bits.A few years back you had the option of spending a lot of money for quality bits, or saving a lot of money and buying bits that were, well...disposable. Competition and improved construction techniques have widened the selection range and brought down prices. It also wasn't too long ago that I would have steered most first-time users away from buying a big set of inexpensive router bits.The low quality usually negated any savings, but today's sets are worth considering. First, I hope you purchased your router wisely and it has both a !/4" and collet. If the bit itself is in diameter or smaller, a '/V' shank is fine.This is good news because '/V'-shank bits are sometimes cheaper. Larger diameter bits you buy should have '/2" shanks (even if they're offered with !/4" shanks). Bits are sometimes sold in single flute (one cutting surface) design.Though a bargain, their performance is greatly reduced, along with their life span.Two-flute bits are the best choice. Also look for anti-kickback features. In most bits this is evident from more of the bit's body material being left in place to produce as small a gullet as possible.The smaller the gullet, the less chance a scrap or your workpiece will get caught and thrown. Another choice is between high speed steel or carbide bits. It's somewhat of a personal choice, and I choose carbide. Carbide bits hold an edge longer, but sharpening needs to be done by a professional. If you feel like sharpening your own bits, high speed steel can provide a very nice quality cut. So what bits do you need to start? It's not the 20-piece set, unless you've got money burning a hole in your pocket. Start with a '/4", and 'A" straight bit,a tV' rabbeting bit (with a bearing guide),a 45-degree chamfer bit,a Vs" roundover bit and a Roman ogee bit.Add dovetail, flush-cutting and other specialty bits as you find the need. |
