Router?

[k_t]

I'm thinking of starting my first DIY sub but I don't own a router to cut the baffles. Any recommendations for around $300?

[madpoet]

I use this one: http://www.rockler.com/product.cfm?page=21393

Very, very good :)

[rsa]

I can recommend the plunge-only router I went with, the DeWalt DW621.

[django1]

I own 5 routers including a heavy duty Dewalt plunge router and a Porter Cable fixed base, a cheapo B and D, a Dewalt Trim router and a Triton 2 1/4 hp plunge router. If I could keep just would it one be the Triton. No hesitation. It was the Fine Woodworking Editors best overall and Best value. It comes with a bunch of accessories you have to pay for with others (like a circle cutting jig). Also comes in a 3hp model but unless you will be spinning behemoth bits in super hard wood the extra hp isn't necessary. Triton Fine Woodworking review
Amazon

[k_t]

Thanks for the suggestions guys, I guess it's time to do some shopping.

Also, can you recommend any woodworking web sites? I am definitely a newbie and would like to read a little more before I take the plunge.

[Mep]

I like this web site.

http://thewoodwhisperer.com/

[rsa]

I am definitely a newbie and would like to read a little more before I take the plunge.

:rlmfao:

[madpoet]

I got this book and REALLY like it:

http://www.amazon.com/Woodworking-Router-Professional-Techniques-Woodworker/dp/1565234391/ref=pd_sim_b_4

[django1]

I have read a lot of stuff from these two in magazine form. Here are the websites: Finewoodworking


American Woodworker

I would say American Woodworker is a better place to start.

Btw all the routers mentioned here are nice. Get a good quality one. A plunge router will do everything a fixed base router does plus it will...plunge. Variable speed and electronic speed control are very desirable. The router will operate much more smoothly. Some kind of attachment for a vacuum cleaner is nice also as routers make a lot of dust and wood chips... 1/2 and 1/4 collets are better than just 1/4 collets (many router come with both, some don't). For small bits 1/4 inch shank is fine but when using large bits a 1/2 shank will vibrate less.

[k_t]

:rlmfao:

I just got the pun :biglaugh:

[k_t]

I have read a lot of stuff from these two in magazine form. Here are the websites: Finewoodworking


American Woodworker

I would say American Woodworker is a better place to start.

Btw all the routers mentioned here are nice. Get a good quality one. A plunge router will do everything a fixed base router does plus it will...plunge. Variable speed and electronic speed control are very desirable. The router will operate much more smoothly. Some kind of attachment for a vacuum cleaner is nice also as routers make a lot of dust and wood chips... 1/2 and 1/4 collets are better than just 1/4 collets (many router come with both, some don't). For small bits 1/4 inch shank is fine but when using large bits a 1/2 shank will vibrate less.

Thanks for the additional info, I was kind of wondering about the different size collets and if I needed both a plunge base and a fixed base.

I have a lot of reading to do.

[k_t]

I got this book and REALLY like it:

http://www.amazon.com/Woodworking-Ro...ref=pd_sim_b_4

I'll pick it up. Thanks!

[tthurman]

I 2nd the recommendation for a plunge router. I have a fixed and find numerous times where I need a plunge.

[django1]

Also, you will probably end up wanting these accessories so if you can get them as a kit it will keep your price down: edge guide, circle cutting jig, template bushings.

Btw, power wise I would keep, + or - a bit, around 2hp. A good compromise between power and weight/ungainliness... The DW621 that RSA endorsed would be high on my list as well. Dewalt makes really nice tools. The one drawback to the Triton I mentioned is that it doesn't have any history so we don't know about long term reliability.

You now know just about everything you need to know to buy a router...;)

[madpoet]

But where does he plug in the ethernet cable? ;)