Popular Woodworking 2006-12 № 159, страница 16

Endurance Test

DeWalt Two-base Router Kit

After a couple years in the shop, it's still the router we'd choose.

When routers with a single motor that fit into either a plunge or fixed base first hit the tool market, they made significant waves. Suddenly, it was possible to have the benefits of both a plunge-base and a fixed-base router at an affordable price. Of course there are some compromises in performance and features, but it was and still is a good deal.

DeWalt introduced its two-base kit after many of its competitors had already entered the fray, so DeWalt had the advantage of knowing what they had to compete against. The DW618PK had more features than any of the other kits and we were duly impressed. In fact the tool's designers even added a third D-handle base to the mix as an option that many woodworkers prefer.

Among the quality features that we identified initially (and that we still appreciate) are the tool's quick-release motor latches that make it very simple to switch between bases with a minimum of fuss. No thumbscrews or (even worse) a latch that requires a screwdriver to release the motor!

For those of us who seem to have trouble keeping the cord out of the way of the spinning bits, DeWalt made the clever choice of

ABOUT OUR ENDURANCE TESTS Every tool featured in our Endurance Test column has survived at least two years of heavy use in our shop here at Popular Woodworking.

adding a detachable cord. This is nice for more than just safety. When you're changing bases or setting up the router, the cord can often be a nuisance. This is a nice feature (and less expensive when you replace the cord).

The DW618 kit also gives you the option of using a spindle lock or two wrenches to tighten or remove bits. Some woodworkers think a spindle lock puts unnecessary stress on the motor armature, so for those of that opinion, the option is nice. I think the spindle lock is the more user-friendly choice.

The router performed well in our tests and continues to provide good power for edge and joinery work. About the only thing we'd hesitate to ask the router to do is run raised-panel bits all day long.

The DW618 generally has good ergonomics, with the tool's switches and handles well located for convenient use. One of the more important (but often overlooked) features on a router is the ability to see where the bit meets the wood. The visibility on the DW618 is very good with clear base plates that don't obscure the cut area.

One of our favorite features (transplanted from the DW621 plunge router) is the tool's through-the-column dust collection that reduces the need for hoses and accessories that always seem to be in the way. You still need a hose, but it's mounted above the router body and away from the work.

SPECIFICATIONS

DeWalt DW618PK Router System Street price: $230 or less Motor: 12 amp, 8K to 24K rpm Things we like:

• Good ergonomics

• Through-the-column dust collection

• Good bit visibility

• Plenty of power

• Easy base change Things we'd change:

• Easier access to speed control

• Dampen noise and vibration

For more information: Contact DeWalt at 800-433-9258 or dewalt.com

We did have a couple of things that we took issue with. When the motor is in the plunge base, the variable-speed control knob is positioned too close to the dust-collection column to get your fingers in there easily. While most woodworkers don't change the speed of the bit constantly, it is annoying.

There have been some reported incidences of a motor magnet breaking apart in the motor housing and causing damage to the motor, which happened to us. But DeWalt reports that these have been isolated incidents.

Lastly (and a little picky), the noise and vibration in the DW618 are acceptable, but they're not the best in the category.

As we've continued to use the DeWalt kit we're still very pleased with the ease of use and the performance of the router. PW

— David Thiel

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Popular Woodworking December 2006