Bark,
Recently, after almost 20 years of use, I burned up my Elu plunge router. I have every intention of repairing it – sometime…. Anyway, several weeks ago, I set out to buy another router which would be primarily used in a table. Several friends and a bunch of posts here on Knots had mentioned Triton routers. After driving myself crazy with comparison shopping and reading reviews, I purchased the 2 1/4 Triton.
I am quite happy with the Triton. If I ever need a more powerful machine, I’ll consider the larger 3 + hp Triton or repairing my old Elu.
Good luck with your shopping!
-nazard
Replies
I've heard good things about the Triton MOF001KC, however, Triton doesnt make a combination kit yet, and I think I want to go that route, but thanks for the comments.
rarely-I recommend you take a more detailed look at the Triton. It can function as either a plunge router or as a fixed-base router. In either mode, it has the full functionality of the alternatives you are considering.
At the moment I only have one router that isn't a plunge router. The fixed base is loaded with a dovetail bit and ready to go at any time for that job only. The ease of adjustment on a plunge is great and easily repeatable. The Micro adjustment on the Triton is great. Work Safe, Count to 10 when your done for the day !!
Bruce S.
Those are all solid choices. I personally like the Milwaukee kit, but go with whichever one you like best.
i believe you're looking at the right combo sets. i went w/ the bosch based on magazine reviews. this was before the new PC came out. only downside to the bosch is the amount of aftermarket stuff out there for the PC vs the bosch. Bases, inlay kits, etc. i had to buy an adaptor for my bosch so I could use PC collars, which are the standard.when i looked the new PC wasn't out, so Bosch was an easy choice. if the bosch / pc was a coin flip, i'd side towards the PC for the above reason.Brad
I have six older P-C’s on the shelf, including two plungers with a lot of hours. I wouldn’t trade them for anything, Porter-Cable rocks. And why six you may ask? Less bit changing.
I have the DeWalt 618 kit, along with an additional plunge base and a D-handle base. I have no complaints.
-Steve
"My hand tool selection is for the most part complete"
trust me it never will be.
There's enough youth in this world, how 'bout a fountain of SMART??!!
I have a Makita 2 1/4 hp with two bases (fixed and plunge). I've never needed more.
My first router was a Rockwell (now Porter Cable) 690. It was probably 10 years old when I got it 20 years ago. It's still going. For $100 it's hard to beat for value.
Let me add one more vote for the Triton 2 1/4hp.
I have an "older" Bosch 3 hp plunge (1611) and a newer Bosch 1617 (kit) I love both of them.
The Bosch 1617 has some nice features- microadjust for depth for the fixed base is really nice. You can choose which side you want the switch and cord to be on. The motor does not rotate when adjusting height in the fixed base (none do in the plunge base). It is easy to center a bit. I like the plunge mechanism- pull down on spring loaded lever to release plunge mech and let go and it locks in place- push a bit more if you need to (I rarely have needed to in >15 yrs using my 1611).
The others you mentioned are also fine machines- the PC and Mil. were the major competitors for me when buying the 1617.
Jeff
"My hand tool selection is for the most part complete"
!!! ROTFLOL!
Boy, are you in for a surprise!
Take it from me (and about a zillion others) -- It's NEVER complete!
;-)
Mike Hennessy
Pittsburgh, PA
PS: Consider one of the PC kits that have both a plunge base and a fixed base. They can do a lot of tricks that a single router won't be able to do, and swapping bases is pretty quick and easy.
Edited 4/11/2008 6:59 am ET by MikeHennessy
I work with some nasty woods! ALL the time.. I have several routers set up for different jobs.. RYOBI,, Yes the so called junkers posted in here! And two PC routers.. I see no real difference except the PC cost two times a much!
I have to say I NEVER take deep cuts whatever router I use! Yes I have a big router but.. I NEVER hand held! Most, if not all of my work, is on a router table....
By the way.. I looked at and tried the FESS Troll! router for $ 500 or so.. Looks like a keeper! IF you have the money!
Edited 4/11/2008 3:32 pm by WillGeorge
Selection simplification.
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