After evaluating 10 laminate trimmers, both single-base and multiple-base models, it became clear that several qualities contributed to making a trimmer user-friendly. While none of the trimmers could do everything, the best ones were light enough to use with one hand; had a switch that could be operated with the hand holding the tool; didn’t have to be taken apart for bit changes; gave the user a clear view of the cutting action; didn’t have lots of small parts to get lost; and let the user keep the bit perpendicular to the router base while adjusting the depth of cut. Here’s how the Porter-Cable 309 fared:

Advantages: This bare-bones trimmer is well made and heavy duty, and it felt good in my hand. The switch is conveniently placed.

Disadvantages: Left-handers will be less enthusiastic about this tool because the adjustment knob will get in their way. The trimmer’s round, squat body has a small subbase (or baseplate), making it a little unstable. Vertical adjustments, made by loosning a large knob and moving the motor housing within the base, were imprecise. It was hard to see where I was routing because the subbase is black and has a small hole. This could be a good tool for a production shop dedicated to a single function, but it’s too limited for multiple taks in a hobbyist setting.

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