With good balance and ergonomics, this router handled well. I especially liked its slick phenolic baseplate, which made it easy to steer the router for edge profiling. It plunges smoothly, and the locking lever works easily and holds the height tightly. The stops on the turret are simple to adjust to allow for variable plunge steps. Adjustments to the plunge depth, both macro and micro, are easy. Bit changes presented no problems, as the spindle lock worked and the wrench was beefy and drop-forged. The dust collection worked very well when I was mortising, but not so well while I was edge profiling. Unfortunately, the edge guide was disappointing, as its fence casting wasn’t straight. And visibility became an issue on deep plunge cuts.

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Fein Turbo II HEPA Wet/Dry Dust Extractor

Among the most powerful HEPA-rated shop vacs on the market, Fein’s Turbo II is quieter, more compact, and nimbler than the rest.

Buy at Amazon

Milwaukee M12 23-Gauge Cordless Pin Nailer

This tool is designed for convenience. The battery and pins are easy to load, and the safety lock operates with the same finger you use to pull the trigger. The depth of set is adjustable, there’s a work light, and there’s a hook for hanging the tool on your toolbelt. A gauge lets you keep track of when you’ll need to recharge.

Buy at Amazon

Craftsman Random Orbit Sander

While this sander is among the least expensive models in the test, its performance ranks among the best. The stock removal was excellent, and dust collection was solid when used with a vacuum. It handles really smoothly, too, and has a tall body that fit my hand nicely whether I was holding it from above or around the waist.

Buy at Amazon