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Made by: Porter-Cable
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Product Description -- When we bought our first router, we agonized about whether to buy a fixed base or a plunge. Well, we went for the fixed base; in fact, it was this model's predecessor, the Porter-Cable 690. But just as you'd imagine, we also ended up buying a plunge router later on. Had this deal been available back then, we'd have snapped it up. It offers one of the best basic fixed-base routers on the market with a second base that turns it into a plunge. The fixed base has P-C's neat micrometer ring adjustment that lets you raise or lower your bit just a hairsbreadth. This set is ideal for mounting the fixed base in a router table and lifting the body out to use in the plunge base, which, by the way, operates smoothly, has a nice chip deflector, and includes a convenient plunge lock right next to the handle. It also features a six-position stop turret with a 2-1/2-inch plunge range. Best of all, the router offers all the durability and smooth, reliable performance of the original 690 model, with a little more horsepower and a new take on the depth adjustment that prevents the motor from accidentally falling out of the base. If you're looking for bells and whistles, shop up the line a little more, but if you're looking for a solid workhorse with great accuracy and reliability along with the plunge option, this is a great deal.
From the Manufacturer -- We took the fixed base and plunge router combination kit to a new level with this model. You get all the convenience and practicality of our fixed and plunge base router kit with the addition of an electronic variable speed 1-3/4 horse power motor and a professional edge guide all in one package. With a speed range of 10,000 rpm to 27,000 rpm, the machined aluminum motor housing is designed for durability and heat dissipation and has a 100-percent sealed ball bearing construction. The included 1/4-inch and 1/2-inch collets have an auto-release design that prevents router bits from becoming frozen or trapped in the collet after use. This eliminates the need to tap on the arbor to break the collet free, a practice that can damage the motor. Adjusting the bit depth when using the fixed base is as simple as releasing a lever and turning the motor within the aluminum base. A micrometer ring on the base acts as a reference for fine adjustments to within 1/64 of an inch. The plunge base has simple controls as well. A large locking lever and a depth stop with a six-position turret make setting the bit to the proper depth a breeze. Fully enclosed springs ensure smooth operation through the 2-1/2-inch plunge range. The motor is also interchangeable with the #1001 fixed router base and the #6911 D-handle base for added versatility. One-year warranty with a 30-day performance certification. Includes motor #6902, fixed base #1001, plunge base #6931, professional edge guide #42690, 1/4-inch collet #42999, 1/2-inch collet #42950, two collet wrenches #42596, heavy-duty carrying case, and operator's manual.
Porter Cable Fixed and Plunge Base Router Kit w/ Edge Guard -- I recently purchased the Porter Cable 693VSPK Fixed and Plunge Base w/ case and Edge Guide to replace a low-end Ryobi router that had served me well in several projects, but that I feel I had outgrown. I looked at several other combination kits, including the DeWalt and the Bosch routers. Let me say that I think you probably could not go wrong with any of them, but I chose the PC because of reputation for quality, ease of setup, and recommendations from people I trust.
I was not disappointed. The packing was secure, and everything arrived in good shape. The instructions are readable, and explain the major setup features. The router has a smooth start feature, which is a welcome addition since it allows you to work in tight spaces and control the tool as it starts up. It also runs a good deal quieter than my old router. I have already used the fixed and plunge base on oak hardwood and the motor has plenty of power. Operation in the fixed base is very easy, and depth adjustment is accurate and stays put. The plunge base (I had never used one before) is a little harder to set up correctly, but operates easily once you get it set up. The only flaw with this setup is removing the motor from the plunge base, and the only reason I gave this product 4 stars instead of five. You have to use the included hex key to "tap" out a metal retainer that holds the motor in the base. It seems somewhat difficult to remove. Maybe I'm being too careful, but it seems like you could damage the unit if you slip off the small area that you can contact to perform this operation.
The edge guide is exceptional. It has a fine adjustment knob that allows you to zero in on your mark exactly. The large face that runs against the workpiece is very easy to keep tight to the work, so it makes the job easy. I routed a slot through 3/4" oak that required three passes. Each one was done accurately and smoothly using the edge guide. I would recommend this piece if you don't already have one for your router.
This is an excellent package that gives you both a fixed and plunge base at a very good price. If you can, take advantage of the special and get the free edge guard. It's worth it.
Reviews:
Very nice router package -- I purchased this kit earlier this year and have used it to build several projects, mostly lawn furniture and the like. It's a very high-quality kit, easy to use and understand. I've gotten consistent results, depth is easy to fix, and stays put. The edge guide is real time saver too.
My one complaint about routers that convert from fixed to plunge base is that the power switch (located at the top of the router) cannot be accessed without taking a hand off of one of the handles and reaching up. When you do this, your other hand is left trying to hold up a fairly heavy tool (esp after several hundred cuts) while the bit's spinning away. It just doesn't feel safe to me.
Excellent value for money -- I researched all the usual manufacturers with router kits: DeWalt, Makita, Porter-Cable, Bosch. After reading many, many reviews on the available models and their pros and cons, I settled on the Porter Cable 693VSPK, ..., for the following reasons:
- the free (limited time) precision edge guide.
- RECENT improvements: soft start and variable speed.
- quality.
- availability of accessories.
- Price.
The biggest drawback about this router is the somewhat "rough" feel of the plunge base. This has been commented on by many others who have used or owned this tool and I was reluctant to buy this router initially for this very reason. The term silky smooth does not really apply to teh plunge action. It is smooth, but by no means silky - at least that is how it feels on demo units at the store. The DeWalt's plunge action is really silky smooth in comparison.
However, I decided to buy the PC router and put up with this small negative in this excellent tool's overall design. Once I got the tool home, I decided to look into why this plunge action felt "rough"... the answer is quite simple: the internal spring rubs against the screw threads on the internal guide rod that supports the travel limiting nuts. Here is what I did:
- remove the "stop nut" and travel limits nuts. The upper part of the plunge base will come off, exposing the internal springs.
- Remove the plastic base plate and undo the nut securing the threaded guide rod.
- gently file smooth the tips of the screw thread on the guide rod (it feels quite sharp, hence the source of the noise).
- remove all the factory grease and reapply wheel bearing grease all over the threads and the springs.
- reassemble the plunge base.
- apply some automobile engine oil to lubricate the plunge base moving parts.
The result: a silky smooth plunge action!
The one other thing I noted about this tool was that some cost cutting is obvious on some parts to keep the price down. Example: black oxide finished steel rods are used instead of polished steel, the fixed base clamp level is stamped steel instead of being a diecast piece (unlike DeWalt).
So far, I have no regrets with this tool purchase. Anyone looking for a fixed / plunge router kit should give the Porter Cable a serious look FIRST, before looking at the others and then ask yourself: is is worth paying $$$ more for other makes?
Excellent Router -- This router looks good all the way around and feels incredibly precise. Swapping the motor between the fixed and plunge base is a simple matter, only one set screw to tighten.
They could have included an additional base plate. The one that was indcluded is too small for anything but straight bits. The plate is designed to accept the PC guide bushing (something I figured out after reeming out the hole to accomodate my round-over bit.)
There is no space to store the edge guide in the case and no directions, manual, etc provided for the edge guide (although it is pretty self-explanatory.) The edge guide is a nice plus.
As a beginner into woodworking, it provides everything I need. A 1/4" and 1/2" collet, a fix and pluge base, 1 3/4 HP, and edge guide.
BAD Plunge Base and WORSE Customer Service -- Using the fixed base portion of this kit has proven reliable and easy. The Plunge Base, however, has been a real disappointment.
Having upgraded (I thought) about four months ago, I purchased the 693VSPK Kit. Immediately upon receiving the kit the plunge base sounded like the elementary school percussion instrument where the stick is rubbed up and down the grooved gourd. The plunge base was exchanged for a slightly quieter and smoother one, but not silky smooth in any way.
Not having used the plunge base I thought I would give it a go while mortising a solid wood exterior door using PC's Mortise Template Kit (nice tool by the way). The template was setup and installed and the plunge base mounted to the motor with a 1/2" mortising bit and the depth set. Immediately upon turning the thing on the bit was contacting the template guide (Porter Cable) and was turned off. Having a job to do I figured that I didn't know what I was doing and would give it a try when I had more time to get it right. Door hung - job completed.
Last week I was working on a solid wood french door and needed to mortise the locking bolt into the top of the stationary side.
This requires a 3/4" wide x 6" long and 3/4" deep mortise. Thinking the plunge base would be a natural for this I set it up and installed a new 1/2" mortise bit, set the plunge base up for the max depth and min. depth of 1/8" for 1/2" long for the mounting screws for the bolt.
The router was turned on and the bit contacted the template guide as it was plunged and totally destroyed the bit and guide.
Contacting Porter Cable Factory Repair / Customer Service was of little help. The young man stated that they don't get a lot of calls like this, but two out of every 100 plunge bases have this problem. When asked what he thought I should do he said to loosen the screws on the base plate and move it around a little bit. The screw holes are counter sunk and provide no means of adjusting the center of the base in relationship to the bit. I asked if I should return it and he said that they really couldn't do anything to fix it. It is still under warranty so I faxed a letter to their corporate headquarters and they are now sending me a new plunge base and a replacement bit. That doesn't cover the inconvenience or lost time. Nor would it cover ruined materials, bits or worse yet: SERIOUS INJURY TO THE OPERATOR OR A BYSTANDER FROM BIT / GUIDE PARTS FLYING THROUGH THE AIR AT EXTREMELY HIGH RATES OF SPEED!
NOTE: The product manager for Porter Cables Router line stated that the fixed bases are mated to the motor and aligned on a jig during final assembly, but they DO NOT DO THIS OR test the plunge bases when they are added to the kits. Maybe they should!
My advice: If you want to avoid the problems do not buy my 693VSPK, which is available at very reasonable price and follow me in looking at Bosch, Makita or Dewalt. There has to be a better product and customer service than offered by Porter Cable. They may be the largest, but are they the best - I hope not!
Great router kit -- This router is by far the best one you can get for the price and regardless of price. It is the perfect size for almost all your routing needs. No dumb dust thing or freaky handles, no gimmicks. I just used it for the first time and the soft start doesnt dim the lights and kick the thing out of your hands. You can also set the variable speed to low and then turn it up after you turn it on for an even smoother startup. Then you can tune the speed to the bit you are using. Its actually quieter than I thought it would be. It feels German in its precision. Great power. The two bases fit and finish are excellent. The plunge mechanism is really all you need but who cares, now you have both. The edge guide is awesome. It feels like a camera company made it, precise, heavy duty, and easily adjustable. The best part about this awesome machine is the fact that it has been the industry standard for years and the accessories for it are unmatched. Dont be fooled, a router needs accessories. D-handles, base plates, template guides you name it. Now its even better with the new variable speed and dust proof switch and quickrelease base. Oh and that sweet grey industrial finish. There is just nothing that excudes the presence of the real deal like this machine.