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Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or just starting to explore DIY projects, a top-notch wood router is crucial for your toolkit. This tool, featuring a rotating blade attached to a flat base, is designed to cut, trim, shape, and hollow wood for various applications. This includes rounding edges on trim and furniture, creating slots for drawer bottoms, and flush-trimming wood, laminates, and veneers.
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Wood routers are also invaluable for decorative work, allowing for precision cutting and the ability to carve intricate edges. They can also be utilized with stencils or templates to create letters and designs. Before purchasing a router, it’s essential to determine your intended use since there are various types of wood routers tailored for specific jobs.
The most commonly used variants are fixed-base and plunge routers. Many models from prominent tool brands and lesser-known companies are available. If you’re curious about the best options, seeking reviews from users and experts can be incredibly helpful, revealing detailed pros and cons of each tool. Below are some highly-rated wood routers for your woodworking endeavors, based on customer and professional evaluations.
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DeWalt, Ridgid, and Ryobi are top choices for fixed-base routers
DeWalt, known for its range of versatile tools, has a rich history dating back over a century, having invented the first radial arm saw. It’s no surprise that DeWalt’s 20V Max XR Cordless Compact Router has received stellar reviews. According to Bob Vila, DeWalt’s fixed-base router was rated as the “best overall” after comprehensive testing, recognizing its ease of one-handed operation and a user-friendly variable-speed dial, all while delivering power and precision comparable to full-sized models.
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Another highly-rated fixed-base option is the Ridgid 18V Compact Trim Router. According to Pro Tool Reviews, it signifies a significant upgrade over the brand’s Octane line, offering much more functionality. They found no major drawbacks during their review, though it falls short in comparison to high-power, full-sized corded models. Nonetheless, they concluded it’s a fantastic choice for avid DIYers, woodworking enthusiasts, and beginner professionals.
Home Depot customers have favored Ryobi’s 8.5-amp 1-½ Peak HP Fixed Base Router, which boasts a robust 4.6 out of 5 rating on nearly 1,200 reviews, with 92% of respondents recommending it. Despite its popularity, their cordless router receives mixed reviews and has been included in the list of products to avoid.
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Metabo, Makita, and Bosch excel in plunge and combo routers
If a plunge router is on your shopping list, Bob Vila recommends the Metabo HPT 36V MultiVolt Cordless Plunge Router as the best cordless model tested. As a respected German manufacturer since the 1980s, Metabo has established a reputation for quality, which is reflected in this tool’s precision routing and ergonomic dual handles, although it could improve the brightness of its guide light.
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For those who prefer the consistent performance of a corded tool, Makita’s 3‑1/4 HP Variable-Speed Plunge Router is highly regarded. It is among the several routers offered by Makita, scoring an average of 4.5 out of 5 on Amazon from approximately 500 reviews. While some users note its heavier weight as a con, most feedback lauds the router’s construction quality, power, and smooth plunge action.
Opting for a combination kit allows you to enjoy the advantages of both fixed-base and plunge routers. Wood Magazine has continuously provided valuable insights for over 40 years and has evaluated various multi-base routers. Their testing led to the conclusion that the Bosch MRC23EVSK Wood Router Tool Combo Kit is “hard to beat,” awarding it, along with Milwaukee’s router, the “Top Tool” accolade. Additionally, Bosch’s Variable-Speed Palm Router is yet another excellent option from their lineup, making it one of the top tools to consider buying on Amazon.
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