Replies

1. 
   RANGERP75R | May 02, 2004 05:59pm | #1

   Dog

      Just got through discussing the DW621 and DW625 on another thread. I run the 621 as a hand held plunge. Got it with a 10% off at HD and gift certificates. It is a good plunge and has probably the smoothest plungers on the market. The depth adjustment is excellent. The trigger is a bit tricky and I would change the base to one of the Pat Warner thangs.

      You cannot tell a lot of difference in a 1 1/2 HP and 2 HP. You shouldn't take large bites with either and that includes the 3 HP. Not that the 3 can't handle the muscle, but you risk a bad cut if you attempt more than your machine is capable of and the wood fiber allows.

      Is the dust collection good on the 621? Yep... If you use the router inside the shop it's worth considering IMO, especially if you got gift certificates laying around. That's the main reason  I took it over a Bosch plunge. BTW, I wouldn't consider either a 2 HP or 3 + HP DW for a table mount. You don't have enough depth to lose with it's short travel. Hard to adjust under the table without a lift also.

   Regards...

   sarge..jt

   Proud member of the :  "I Rocked With ToolDoc Club" .... :>) 

1. 
   Robbie | May 03, 2004 11:24pm | #2

   Dog:

   I've got the DW625.  It is a good enough router, but if Sarge is correct, then I would opt for the 621 for the dust collection. 

   With the 625, even if you use the edge guide with the built in dust scoop, it still makes a mess.  Ditto for my Bosch.

1. 
   Routerman | May 04, 2004 12:13am | #3

   Routing is messy business, table routing less so. There is a trade off when hand routing and collecting chips. You haul a hose, can't see the cutter and you lose some control. Some operations cause the router to throw a chip that is uncollectable. In my view, if cleanliness (allergies or whatever), is essential routing will be a problem. If precision is essential the router will do it but perhaps in your face. A clean air mask may be the choice if you need both.

   Routers

1. 
   Robbie | May 04, 2004 12:33am | #4

   Routerman:  Is that you, Pat?

   Bob Weiland

   Edited 5/3/2004 5:34 pm ET by Robbie

2. 
   MSDMSD | May 04, 2004 06:41pm | #5

   Robbie - thanks for the input - I've just discovered the Fein Plunge Router, model 1800,  what do you think?  I was impressed this router plunges 3".

   Talk to you later - MSD

1. 
   Robbie | May 04, 2004 06:53pm | #6

   Dog:

   I thought the Fein and the DW625 are actually the same router, but "badged" differently -- similar to the Ford Explorer and the Mercury Mountaineer.  You should double check on this.  If accurate, it is a very good router.  The 625 is thought to be the industry mainstay of the 3+ hp plunge routers.

   Bob

1. 
   BenA | May 04, 2004 11:28pm | #7

   Robbie: The Fein And DeWalt router are not the same, If you check out the specs you can see that they are totaly different. The quality of the Fein products can not be surpasses by Black & Decker tools.

   http://www.feinus.com/NEWrouter/new-router.htm

   http://www.dewalt.com/us/products/tool_detail.asp?productID=112

2. 
   Robbie | May 05, 2004 05:36pm | #8

   Ben:  I stand corrected.  It is the Elu 3337 that is very similar to the DW625.  Apologies for the incorrect post.  Thanks for correcting. 

   I own several Fein products and they are very "fine" indeed.  However, I have never used their router and am therefore unable to comment or compare it with the DW625.

   Edited 5/5/2004 10:40 am ET by Robbie

   Edited 5/5/2004 10:40 am ET by Robbie

3. 
   FWWchat | May 05, 2004 06:24pm | #9

   Something I will just throw out for some feedback.  I recently bought the new Porter Cable model 891 with optional plunge base. So far I have been thrilled with it as a hand held router but have not tried the plunge attachment.  Have made a rule joint on a table - 1 inch thick cherry and it was so easy to handle.  Any feedback on what you guys think of Porter Cable?

   Martha