Replies

1. 
   Kell | May 04, 2004 02:52pm | #1

   bones,

   I bought the same pack about 3 months ago.  It is an excellent system IMO.  With the fixed base mounted in my router table I've got above-the-table bit changes and it's solid as a rock no matter what I've routed.  Including a large panel raising bit.

   The plunge base is solid too.  I have no regrets.  BTW you got a great price at $204.  I think I paid about $217 in a sale a Woodcraft.  Enjoy!

   Kell

1. 
   bones | May 05, 2004 05:36am | #2

   Thanks for the reinforcement. I cant wait to get my hands on it.

2. 
   forestgirl | May 05, 2004 05:45am | #3

   Congrats on the new 894, Bones.  My understanding is that they made some long-needed improvements over the 690 series.  One of those rare instances when "new and improved" is an accurate statement.  I'll live with my 690's and be a bit envious.

   forestgirl -- you can take the girl out of the forest, but you can't take the forest out of the girl ;-)
   Another proud member of the  "I Rocked With ToolDoc Club" .... :>) 

1. 
   bones | May 05, 2004 05:18pm | #4

   Thanks. I'll share my impressions after I get a few miles on it.

1. 
   FWWchat | May 06, 2004 02:26am | #5

   I recently bought the 894PK and have been thrilled.  I love the anti-kick start on the motor and the D grip handle.  I have not used the plunger but with the regular base I have routed a rule joint in inch thick cherry and it was terrific.  Doing a half inch round over on the top edge of the table it was like it was not even cutting anything...no resistance! Can't say enough about it so far.  Will be trying out my new PC biscuit joiner tonight.

   Martha

1. 
   bones | May 08, 2004 01:20am | #6

   Man I just opened the box and all I can say is WOW. Now keep in mind up until this point all I have had experience with is craftsman, so others may be this nice as well. The think feels like it's part of my hand. The cases are nice and dovetailed together. I don't have a hose that will fit the vacuum chute yet, but I'm sure I can rig something. It is very impressive. All the adjustments are easy and right at hand. The review in this Month's issue of American Router gave it very good marks as well. Combined with my 7518 & PRL in the table, I think I'm ready to make some dust. 

   Thanks for the feedback on the combo.

2. 
   jc21 | May 09, 2004 06:27am | #7

   I might get laughed at but imho the 690 that you (and I) have is the better tool because of balance. Most all of these newer high falutin' feature laden  routers feel pretty ungainly to me- too top heavy for starters. The old 690's and especially the Model 100's feel great straight out of the box. Simple and effective depth adjustment. Low and squat = great balance. The 690 and 100 were the mainstays of shops I worked at over a dozen years ago and I remain unconvinced the new generation of routers offers any real improvement over the 690 and 100. Lots more features perhaps, but better?

   Edited 5/9/2004 9:39 am ET by jc

1. 
   forestgirl | May 10, 2004 12:34am | #8

   You've got a point, JC.  I have yet to lay hands on the 890 router, so have no idea what the balance is like.  I do like the feel of the 690 and it's corresponding plunge router (whatever the model number is), especially since my hands aren't near as strong as they were 15 years ago.forestgirl -- you can take the girl out of the forest, but you can't take the forest out of the girl ;-)Another proud member of the  "I Rocked With ToolDoc Club" .... :>) 

1. 
   Robbie | May 10, 2004 11:07pm | #9

   Forestgirl:  I feel the same way about my old B&D which was the precursor to the DW610 (nearly identical).  Basic no frills router with great balance.  My new Bosch is nice for a variety of reasons, but lacks the balance of my squatty little B&D