Power: 15 amps Street price: $220 Cut quality: Excellent Router accuracy: Excellent Control and handling: Very good Cut visibility: Excellent Ease of bit changes: Good
This is the heaviest and most powerful router in the test. With rack-and-pinion adjustment, it has good balance and control, with shaped handles that fit the hand. It was one of the smoothest cutters. A built-in work light is always on when the tool is plugged in, which helps with setups. On the downside, the base was a little tricky to remove for bit changes and the on/off trigger in the handle was awkward to use for those with large hands.
Fine Woodworking Recommended Products
Bosch 12V Trim Router
Trim routers are easier to handle when you cut the cord, and the Bosch’s compact, curvy shape and unique base give it unmatched control.
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.
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.
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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