Replies

1. 
   _mj_ | Dec 02, 2020 08:50pm | #1

   I have a cast iron wing router table on the right side of my tablesaw. Fence and miter gauge slots all handy and no real estate lost in my shop.

2. 
   user-7022764 | Dec 02, 2020 09:17pm | #2

   Old shop teacher here. Home made is good and hopefully not complicated. Make lots of them for kids who are serious about working at home. I don't think you gain much as long as your home made unit was well made, square and has a flat/square fence.

   If you do you want factory unit the Kreg router table is pretty decent. Not too complicated.

   Lots of hobby woodworkers overthink the whole thing. Is there something you cant do with your current setup or do you just want a new tool? No wrong answer but the gain will most likely be minimal.

   Check out Bob VanDyke router table and his fences. Simple perfection.

3. 
   user-7022764 | Dec 02, 2020 09:35pm | #3

   I looked up that Bosch unit at lowes. For $169 its probably not a bad deal. Its a little small in table size but maybe thats not big of an issue. The Kreg router table is quite a bit more expensive and still doesnt come with the router.

4. 
   MIKEALEE | Dec 02, 2020 10:16pm | #4

   I bought the Bosch benchtop router table (the one with the MDF cabinet) a few months ago. When I opened the box and saw the aluminum router plate, I closed the box and returned it.

   The aluminum plate was rough, and looked like it would scratch any workpiece it contacted. I don't know if it was defective or if they are all that way.

   So I ordered a KREG benchtop router table online and have been pretty happy with it. It requires you drill the plate for your particular router and I like that.

   My only complaint is the KREG miter channel is supposed to fit a standard 3/4 inch miter gauge but it doesn't. My trusted Starrett caliper says the miter channel is 0.73 inches wide but my Delta miter gauge is dead-on 0.75 inches. Too tight!

   KREG support was very responsive and sent out a new miter channel but it is exactly the same.

   I found that the ROCKLER aluminum miter bar with the little nylon setscrews can be adjusted for a perfect fit so I plan on using that to make a miter sled.

   Mike

5. 
   DRBWWing | Dec 03, 2020 07:43am | #5

   If you’re considering a table like that, make your own. 2 layers of (flat) MDF or ply, laminate both sides. Rim with hardwood prior to laminating.

   That’s said, if you have to buy a whole sheet of laminate, you’re not coming out ahead.

   A phenolic table may be a better option. Check MLCS.com.

   Personally, it would be cast iron.

6. 
   mattatthegranary | Dec 03, 2020 08:30am | #6

   I know its not what you want to hear but home made is much better as you can customize your design to suit your needs and the satisfaction of making you own is immeasurable.

7. 
   elmaduro | Dec 03, 2020 11:19am | #7

   My observation: you'll be satisfied with your first store bought router table but really enjoy and keep your second shop-made one :)

8. 
   barshfield | Dec 03, 2020 04:09pm | #8

   Well, I think I've got my answer - build a new home-made table with the recommendations from all of you. Thank you all for pointing me to the materials/component resources available to me.

9. 
   esch5995 | Dec 03, 2020 04:14pm | #9

   Build your own table and invest in a lift. The entry level JessEm can be found under $200.

   I built mine into my table saw extension using a torsion box design and laminate covered ¾" mdf and it has remained perfectly flat and true for years. The same technique could be used to build a a freestanding table as well.

   
10. 
    richeytgr | Dec 03, 2020 04:49pm | #10

    I built a cabinet on casters with good vacuum attachments. When I get the bucks I'll invest in a lift.

11. 
    DRBWWing | Dec 03, 2020 06:17pm | #11

    +1 on the router lift. As you do more router work and get into things like rail and stile doors, the micro adjustment a lift allows will really help your work.

12. 
    elmaduro | Dec 03, 2020 09:30pm | #12

    My shopmade table: Rockler top and lift. Then 2x4's, mdf, and casters. 4" dust port on right side, a switch in front, and storage below. Also have a 1/4" removable mdf top that makes it a flat work area when not in use. The enclosed case with the dust port makes for some very good dust-free routing. The magnetic front panel allows access for engaging the spindle lock and cleaning. If you go with a benchtop setup, make sure you enclose it to accommodate dust collection.

    
13. 
    rob_ss | Dec 04, 2020 02:55am | #13

    Totally agree with the DIY option - it will be better in every way that counts.
    I have a Triton workstation which was basically a waste of money so don't buy that one....

    I know it's a Call to Authority fallacy, but have a look at Bob VanDyke's router basics course on FWW - he uses a slab of melamine with a block of wood as a fence. If it's good enough for the head honcho of a top woodwork school...

14. 
    elmaduro | Dec 05, 2020 08:49pm | #14

    Was just at my local Rockler and they had router table tops in their clearance aisle at good discounts ..

15. 
    dberk | Dec 07, 2020 11:09am | #15

    First - built a homemade one until I knew what i would use it for, wanted in terms of features, etc. Can be a challenge getting top flat, not sag over time, stability with larger bits, perpendicular fence, ... I used two pieces of MDF for the top, thick lexan for the plate, etc. Still had a bit of vibration. Using the Dewalt 618 router. Worked to start out, but I wanted better.

    Second- bought a Kreg benchtop model. Huge difference in stability, and can then easily add a router lift. My only negative feedback is their strange fence tightening. It has slipped a couple of times so after I adjust the fence, lock it down, then add a couple of spring clamps. Not a big deal. Overall very happy,