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Made by: DEWALT
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Features:
. Includes router motor, D-handle base, fixed base, plunge base, 1/4" and 1/2" one-piece self releasing collets, wrench, sub-base concentricity gauge, vacuum adaptor, large hole sub-base, and kit box
. 2-1/4 HP (max. motor HP), for smooth routing in toughest hardwoods
. Quick release motor latches, to change from fixed to plunge base
. Electronic variable speed from 8,000 to 24,000 rpm
. Micro-fine depth adjustment ring in 1/64" increments
Product Description -- Once in a while, we come across a tool that just makes us want to shut down the computer and hit the shop with renewed passion---and this is one of those tools. DeWalt has made such a fine router to begin with, but to package it with the bases you'd find yourself wanting later is a great move. The router itself has a super-smooth variable speed 2-1/4 -orsepower motor with a load range of 8,000 to 24,000 rpm and soft-start for virtually no twist. Kudos to DeWalt for giving this model a flat top and not the scalloped edge we've seen on their models before; this makes bit-changing a much better experience. For table use, the fixed base can't be beat. For freehand use, the D-handle offers unparalleled control and comfort. And of course, the plunge base is essential in any workshop, but we like this one for its integrated in-column dust removal (and it really works). An adjustable turret is great for repetitive work, and this turret's got five positions. We also like the placement of the plunge lock, right where you want it. For novice router-users, this is the perfect purchase; if you've been around the collet a few times, you still can't do better than this.
From the Manufacturer -- New from DEWALT, this unique new router kit includes a powerful 12 AMP motor can, a fixed base, plunge base and d-handle base to accommodate all user needs in a wide variety of routing applications. The unit provides constant speed under load from 8,000-24,000 rpm and soft start to rout through the hardest materials. The fixed base features the micro-fine depth adjustment ring that moves in 1/64-inch increments. Adjustable tool-free motor cam locks provide easy base changes from fixed to plunge to d-handle. Plunge base features integral through the column dust collection, machined brass bushings and case hardened steel guide rods for a smooth and accurate plunge stroke. Die-cast aluminum bases, nickel-plated die-cast aluminum motor housing, detachable cordset, dust sealed switch, and Lexan sub-bases enhance durability. This kit includes fixed base router, plunge base, d-handle base, 1/4- and 1/2-inch collets, two wrenches, concentricity gauge to ensure bit to sub-base centering, vacuum adapter, and kitbox.
Reviews:
Nice features, ease of use, ready for inlay, and dovetails.. -- I purchased this router set to do inlay work and use on the dovetail machine. I wanted to keep my bosch under the table so I did not have to pull it out all the time (by the way the bosch is a nice machine too!).
The Pros
1.) The bases on all three are narrow enough to hold brass bushings to follow templates and it was a snap to start the dovetailing like I wanted. It does have soft start like the bosch.
2.) The D handle is nice too I use that the most. I have had some trouble with the bit coming lose on the 1/4" shank but only because I did not tighten it good from the excitement of having a new tool (no harm done).
3.)It does have variable speed which I love to control on various hardwoods.
4.)The other feature I like are the cord connectors which have their own plugs and are easy to connect. The ends of the cord twist and latch so you know they're in place.
5.)The plunge base has a vaccum port on one of the shafts that I have yet to use.
6.)The dial on the router bases are smooth and raises and lowers the motor with precision and locks tight.
The cons:
1. When routing some stock you can really see the coils and bushings wind up the eletricity through the top vents which is normal but can be distracting, I'll get use to it
2.I like the one wrench bit removal with the push pin to hold the collet in place, but it takes some practice. (No more loose bits!)
Overall the machine is excellent and I am happy with the purchase and performance. The cons are very minor. I would have to choose this machine over the bosch if it were my only router because of how veritile it is (dovetail & inlay bushing bases, three bases, vaccum attachment, and variable speed) but what serious woodworker can only get away with one router? Oh yeah, and I did get the free bits......nice too.
Great tool DeWalt!!! -- Well, this is my first "yellow" tool. I am a "blue" tool guy but I did not like some of the features on the new Makita routers, they are excellent tools with rave reviews but I did not like the entire motor turning when you adjust the depth. The problem was also compounded that nobody made a D-handle, plunge combo kit. I handled them all, every top name in the business. I took a look at the Dewalt 3piece combo and fell in love with it. It's a very well thought out system. Plus it's the only router brand that I know of that includes all three bases in one kit.
Pros:
Smooth Power, Soft start, very quiet for a router.
Three bases with great ergo design.
Awesome depth adjustment, motor does not twist.
Power cords are detachable.
Easy snap in and out bases.
Spindle lock.
Great value, D-handle base only costs you about 40 bucks with the three piece kit, retail is about $90!!
Fixed base in the router table, D-handle and plunge for freehand work, what else could you want?
Operate the power switch with your thumb without taking your hands off the router on the fixed base and plunge, not an issue with the d-handle.
Cons:
None, well ok, for you really picky people the case is larger than other routers, but remember there are three bases in there.
I did originally purchase the Milwaukee Body grip and loved it before I picked up the DeWalt. The ONLY reason I did not keep it was because I wanted a plunge base and the "red" company does not make a PB for the 5616. I did not want to spend another $200 on a plunge router, and still not have the D-handle option. This is my first router and I could not think of a better kit for the DIY homeowner to have.
Another Terrific DeWalt Router! -- I want to second everyone's positive comments about the DeWalt 618 router kit. My second router was a Porter Cable 690 (still sold under various incantations) purchased 20 odd years ago. It was a solid workhorse and is still going strong under new ownership. I mention this because I believe one cannot fully appreciate how wonderful a machine the DeWalt 618 is without some use of a beastly predecessor or two.
The 618's soft start is a very real blessing. Do not purchase a router for handheld use that does not have this feature. The motor runs smooth and quiet. The design of the motor housing allows the switch to remain in the same location, regardless of the height of the bit. Another outstanding feature, especially if mounted in a table. The knobs are fat and comfy on the fixed and plunge bases and the location of the motor provides a low center of gravity. Another very real blessing.
A collet lock allows for easy bit changes. The lock is spring loaded so it cannot be accidentally left positive and the machine turned on. There are two collet nuts and wrenches so bit changes may be accomplished in the traditional manner if desired. The bases all accept Porter Cable bushings, generally the most popular. My only peeve with this machine are the base screws, which have torx heads, ilo phillips. Go figure.
The plunge base is the real star of the trio, in my opinion. The plunge action is smooth and controlled. Not jerky and sticky like the Porter Cable 7529 that I owned briefly. I have the plunge base mounted in my Leigh FMT and the base performs flawlessly in this tasking. (It requires use of the Leigh mounting rods, it is not a direct bolt on.) The dust collection when used in a hand held configuration works OK. The hose connects to the top of the right plunge rod housing, which keeps the hose up and out of the way. The plunge set up, fine tune and turret stops are all intuitive in their set up and work well in operation.
Overall, I am very happy with this router and highly recommend it to anyone. It is compact, powerful and very user friendly.
An upgrade from PC -- I started out with the bar set pretty high, my first real router was a Porter Cable 693 Variable Speed, fixed and plunge base kit. That is a fantastic router, but I wanted a little more power and a pistop grip base.
I went back and forth on getting the new PC 890 series kit, but ultimately, the Dewalt went on sale and I just could not resist. It is tough to imagine for me, but I like this route better than the PC 693, which is practically bullet proof.
The motor is relatively quiet, but everyone should be wearing hearing protection in the shop anyway, so noise shouldn't be a big factor.
One of my favorite features is the soft start. The PC has soft start, but the Dewalt actually has a 1/2 second to a second delay from the time you pull the trigger to when the motor starts spinning. This threw me at first, I am used to hitting the switch, and having the motor start immediately, but I like the delay. Accidentally hit the trigger on the pistol grip base, and if you don't hold it down, it won't fire up.
The base is smoother going over wood that the Bosch pistol grip router I have. The Bosch is going to be a permanent dovetail router going forward.
The single wrench bit change is very nice, easy to use, you just need to position the motor in the base where you can get your finger to it.
I did not receive the chisels that were advertised with the router kit, but a quick email to Tool Crib, and then a call to Dewalt and they were on the way.
Without a doubt, I would suggest that anyone needing a true full use router kit purchase the Dewalt. Why no one else has a fixed, plunge and pistol grip base kit offering is beyond me, but the competition is missing out.
If you need it, buy it, you won't be sorry.
Nice features -- Getting the three bases is great. One for the router table, and then having the plunge and d-handle for hand work is great.
Soft-start makes it easier to control when starting, no more jerking when starting. Variable speed controller another nice feature when working with easily burned woods.
This was the perfect replacement for my DW610. As with most tools, its only as good as the cutting bit/blade/knife. Stay away from the cheapo HSS bits. I stick with carbide tipped, anti-kickback bit with 1/2" shank whenever possible and have always had excellent results.