Plunges on this router are smooth and the plunge-lock mechanism works very well. A large power trigger mounted on the right handle is easy to work with two fingers. I had no trouble seeing the bit during use. On the negative side, even though macro and micro plunge depth adjustments were easy, the depth indicator could not be zeroed. That means you must pick a random measurement to use instead and do the math to figure out how much you’ve plunged. The opening on the dust shroud is small and interferes with any profiling bit that has a moderate diameter. I could not raise most bits high enough to stand the router on its base. Also, the edge guide interferes with the baseplate, making it difficult to adjust.
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Festool Rotex FEQ-Plus Random Orbital Sander
The Festool Rotex is a top-of-the-line choice. On its coarse setting, it removed stock nearly twice as quickly as the second-fastest model. But that speed doesn’t mean you’ll have to wrestle with it. It’s no huge task to control it with two hands, and its long body gives you plenty of room to find a sweet spot while holding it.
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.
With its graceful curves, cabriole legs, and ornamental back splat, a Queen Anne side chair is a bucket list build for many woodworkers. Dan Faia had a very specific Queen…
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