JessEm - JessEm- Benchtop Router Table
JessEm’s new benchtop router table features a high-density MDF top is 1 in. thick by 15-3⁄4 in. deep by 23-5⁄8 in. wide, with a miter track in front.
A benchtop router table is handy for small shops, because it can be stowed out of the way when not in use. But these units are notorious for poor quality and inaccuracy.
JessEm’s new benchtop router table gets it right, however, with quality where it matters most: up top. The high-density MDF top is 1 in. thick by 15-3⁄4 in. deep by 23-5⁄8 in. wide, with a miter track in front. The beefy top is flat, and should remain that way. The insert plate is adjusted flush to the top from underneath. The adjustment is a bit cumbersome, but not a deal-breaker because it’s something you should have to do only once.
The extruded aluminum fence is nicely made and designed. Besides the usual T-tracks for mounting the sliding melamine faces, it also sports two extra T-tracks—one on the front, and one on the top providing ample room for jigs and/or featherboards. The fence is square to the table and the faces stay perfectly aligned, which is critical for smooth routing. The dust collection is also excellent. Besides the fencemounted 2-1⁄4-in.-dia. vacuum port, the JessEm features a canvas bag underneath the table that has its own dust port. The bag has zippers in front for access to the router.
The tubular frame is sturdy and lightweight, but I wish it were easier to clamp the table in place. One solution is to clamp boards on either side to keep it from walking as you rout.
All in all, though, the key parts of the table are high quality, making it a good value.
For more information, go to jessem.com.
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