High HP Router

High HP Router · 03-26-2008, 09:01 PM

I am in the market for a high hp variable speed router for use with raised panel bits based on the responses I got from the router speed control thread I started last night. I have decided that I need to invest in a good high hp router to do the raised panel doors instead of getting out the cheap way with a speed control and numerous passes with my pc router. I am looking for suggestions from the folks here on the routers that you have used. With the 15% off that Lowes is offering in the next few days I think that now is the time to make the purchase. TIA for your advise. Gloat to follow!!!!

Tracy

Joe Scharle · 03-26-2008, 09:05 PM

Big Milwaukee 5265

DaveO · 03-26-2008, 09:17 PM

Porter Cable 7518 Speedmatic 3.25 HP, is the standard that all is judged by. Most router lfts are designed around it. But I don't think you will find it at the BORGS.
Another good router is the old Hitachi M12, not the new re-designed model M12V2. It doesn't work as well with many router lifts but is a good strong router and a good price if you can find someone willing to part with theirs.
IMO,
Dave

TracyP · 03-26-2008, 09:26 PM

Originally Posted by DaveO

Porter Cable 7518 Speedmatic 3.25 HP, is the standard that all is judged by. Most router lfts are designed around it. But I don't think you will find it at the BORGS.
Another good router is the old Hitachi M12, not the new re-designed model M12V2. It doesn't work as well with many router lifts but is a good strong router and a good price if you can find someone willing to part with theirs.
IMO,
Dave

Thanks Dave, online is definitely an option for me, can you advise a good site to purchase or should I just go to Amazon for the best deal?
Tracy

JackLeg · 03-26-2008, 09:59 PM

I've got a Freud 3.25 hp that's got plenty of power. Also VS.

TracyP · 03-26-2008, 10:18 PM

Just ordered a Makita 3612c from the Borg. I actually used one on a recent trip to my uncle's cabinet shop in SC It had awesome power and smooth start and was extremely comfortable to use. Not the best price I found online, but with the Borg CC the purchase had a no interest option. Thanks for the suggestions on the other routers though. I know I did not wait long enough for replies but my uncle answered an email and reminded me that we used the 3612c on my trip. The Milwaukee was out of stock or I would have ordered it. (Now they show the Milwaukee 5625-20 in stock for $9.00 more, called them this morning and changed the order. I think that will be a better all around router.)

GLOAT COMING SOON

Tracy

NCPete · 03-26-2008, 10:19 PM

I second Joe's vote on the Milwaukee, partly because you may be able to find it in the BORG... but DaveO is right about the 7518, and I am still upset at myself for not getting one I saw for $80!!!! new in a dusty box in a pawn shop!

Travis Porter · 03-26-2008, 10:19 PM

Porter Cable 7518 or Dewalt 625 or the equivalent Bosch or the Equivalent Hitachi. All are outstanding machines. Amazon is a good place for stuff like this. There are a few others, but none come to mind at the moment.

titan04 · 03-26-2008, 10:30 PM

I have the PC 7518 in my router table... I have never had it struggle, even when I ignore depth rules

It is a joy to use in the table... it is a bear like all others when outside the table though

BKind2Anmls · 03-27-2008, 06:16 PM

My two big routers are a Freud 3.25 HP and the Bosch 1619EVS. Hands-down I love my Bosch. The depth stops are intuitive, the start is extremely smooth and it is well-balanced. Good luck.

---Susan

NCPete · 03-27-2008, 10:02 PM

Here is a good deal on a big power router

TracyP · 03-27-2008, 10:09 PM

Originally Posted by NCPete

Here is a good deal on a big power router

That is an awesome price, I just ordered a Milwaukee 5625-20 from the Borg. I had originally ordered a Makita cause the Milwaukee was out of stock, then all of the sudden it was in stock so I changed my order.

Tracy

DaveO · 03-27-2008, 10:14 PM

Originally Posted by NCPete

Here is a good deal on a big power router

Yea, don't go with the Hitachi M12V2, it isn't the same as the original M12. I had one for a while, and it is not designed well at all for table use. It is designed well for handheld use, but that is not what you use a 3¼ HP/14 pound router for

Dave

TracyP · 03-27-2008, 10:22 PM

The main reason that I changed my order is that the Milwaukee offers above the table height adjustment. And of course the recommendations in this thread. The Makita was nice but for only nine dollars more I think I will be getting a better router to spin those Big bits.