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 Hitachi fared:

Advantages: The Hitachi is the second-least expensive trimmer of those we tested.

Disadvantages: The tool was uncomfortable to use. It was too big to hold with one hand, and the two knobs that raise and lower the base and hold the trip guide in place dug into my palm. I also couldn’t access the switch without using both hands. The small base and offest motor housing make the tool unstable. While the base allows for tilt cut, there is no 90° stop, so I had to measure the angle each time. The base on the tool I tested was twisted and wouldn’t sit flat, and the vertical-adjustment screw kept slipping in the threads. Also, the motor had a very loud whine.

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