Popular Woodworking 2003-04 № 133, страница 29

DeWalt: A Little Late but Great

I don't know if DeWalt did it on purpose, but by offering a multi-base router system after three of its competitors had brought their models to market, DeWalt was able to add some features and innovations that make its system superior.

One of the nicest features is the quick-release motor latches that allow you to slide the motor out of either base by releasing a cam lock, then depressing the two release latches. This same system allows height adjustment in the fixed-base version by rotating the depth adjustment collar (graduated in ¹/64" increments) without spinning the motor. This keeps your switch and cord in the same place at all times, and you won't experience problems with bit concentricity.

Also nice is the detachable, locking 10' rubber cordset. This not only makes replacing the cord easy (after accidents or wear), it also makes using the optional D-handle base ($80) simple. The cord is so convenient that I disconnect it from the motor while changing bits instead of unplugging the tool. It makes the motor less awkward and leaves the cord connection at bench height, rather than chasing the cord end on the floor to plug it back in when you're done.

The motor also has a flat top and spindle lock to make bit changes convenient. If you don't like the idea of using a spindle lock, the lock is removable, and DeWalt has included the necessary two wrenches. The switch on the motor is a sealed toggle switch located for easy thumb access.

The motor on the model we tested was a 12-amp, variable-speed motor (a single speed model, the DW616, also is available) with soft start and electronic feedback to main-

tain constant speed under load. Rated at 2¹/4 horsepower by DeWalt, we found the torque and power excellent for this size tool.

Both bases included in the kit have rubber overmolded handles that are sized well and provide a good, no-slip grip. They also share clear, Lexan base plates offering good visibility of the cutting operation.

The plunge base is a nod toward the convenience of the DW621 plunge router, without going so far as to steal sales from that nice tool. The motor slips easily into the plunge base housing, locking in place again with a cam lock. Machined brass bushings provide smooth plunge action with a convenient and well-sized plunge lock lever.

Depth adjustment is accomplished through a five-position turret stop (with ⁵/l28" adjustment per turn) and a slip-knob on the depth rod that allows for quick, temporary depth adjustment before locking in the final setting for your plunge cut.

The plunge base offers through-the-base and column dust collection, (one of the best features on the 621 model) providing easy

SPECIFICATIONS

DW618PK Router System Street price: $235 - $250 Motor: 12 amp, 2¹/4 hp, 8K to 24K rpm with

soft start, electronic feedback Collets: V4" and V2" Plunge stroke: 2V2" Weight: 12 pounds Performance: ••••• Price range: $$$$$ DeWalt Tools: 800-4-DeWalt, or dewalt.com

hook-up to a shop vacuum for excellent dust collection without impeding use.

One drawback with the motor in the plunge base is the speed control knob is more awkward to adjust than in the fixed base.

When we put it to use, the router performed well, felt good in our hands and was easy to adjust and transfer from one base to another. Vibration and noise were within comfortable levels, but not the best in the class. Priced between $230 and $250, it's priced competitively, and offers nice refinements that make it a strong recommendation in the multi-base router category.

For more information, circle #115 on Free Information Card.

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HOW WE RATE TOOLS

We test new tools and products with an honest, real-world workout. We start from the box, assemble the tool if necessary, and read the manuals to see how clear they are. Then we put the tools to use in our shop, building projects.Then our staff shares the result with you.

We rate performance on a one-to-five scale, with "five" indicating that we consider it to be the leader in its category. For price range, five dollar signs means the tool is priced high in the category, with one dollar sign indicating a low price.Three dollar signs is an average price.

If all your questions aren't answered here, e-mail me at david.thiel@fwpubs.com or call me at 513-531-2690, ext. 1255.You also can visit our web site at popularwoodworking.com to read previous tool reviews and sign up for our free e-mail newsletter (focusing on tools) that's sent out every other week.

—David Thiel, senior editor

30 Popular Woodworking April 2003