Woodworking Router Question
Mar 26, 2016 11:12:35 #
I have a basic Skil router and a basic Skil router table. I'm trying my hand at making picture frames, and I realize that, just like in photography, better tools make the job easier and the results better. I'm thinking about getting a new router and router table. The one that gets high marks is the Bosch RA1181.
http://smile.amazon.com/dp/B000H12DQ6/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=1K6S0U4KGY5NH&coliid=IRES51BVRLS2R&psc=1#Ask
I'd also like a better router, one that lets me adjust height of the cutter from the top of the table, rather than having to reach below. I've read lots of reviews, but the reviews and the specs don't always mention above-table adjusting. And, of course, the router must be compatible with the Bosch table. I'd prefer not to spend much more than $150.
So, if you have any router advice to pass along, I'd be glad to hear it.
http://smile.amazon.com/dp/B000H12DQ6/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=1K6S0U4KGY5NH&coliid=IRES51BVRLS2R&psc=1#Ask
I'd also like a better router, one that lets me adjust height of the cutter from the top of the table, rather than having to reach below. I've read lots of reviews, but the reviews and the specs don't always mention above-table adjusting. And, of course, the router must be compatible with the Bosch table. I'd prefer not to spend much more than $150.
So, if you have any router advice to pass along, I'd be glad to hear it.
Mar 26, 2016 11:23:27 #
Mar 26, 2016 11:23:45 #
I'm pretty sure you can do that with the Bosch. I believe that's the one my brother bought. All I remember is it was a bit of a kludge to use compared to a full size router table and lift.
Also, bear in mind, you want the most powerful router you can fit on the table.
Bosch's website sh.ould have more particulars. Good luck
Also, bear in mind, you want the most powerful router you can fit on the table.
Bosch's website sh.ould have more particulars. Good luck
Mar 26, 2016 11:24:40 #
Mar 26, 2016 11:33:42 #
I once thought to make some frames and got flummoxed on two things. First, the table was too small and the feed instability at beginning and end comprimised the result. Second, cutting the corners precise were not.
Mar 26, 2016 11:35:57 #
For that budget I think Harbor Freight is the place to go, in fact I'll be going later today, reasonable good stuff at good prices, their stuff lasts me a long time, Bob.
Mar 26, 2016 11:39:09 #
BEWARE Jerry!
It's a proven fact that the woodworking strain of GAS is even more virulent than the photography strain!
I broke down and got the JessEm Rout-R-Lift. You absolutely don't need it but it sure is nice if you have it. Then I bought the Keen dust catcher. It took a couple of hours to figure out how to safely disassemble the Rout-R-Lift to install it and I had to buy offset wrenches for my Bosch 1617 router, but now my table, and the tools in it, aren't covered with dust and chips every time I use the table.
It's a proven fact that the woodworking strain of GAS is even more virulent than the photography strain!
I broke down and got the JessEm Rout-R-Lift. You absolutely don't need it but it sure is nice if you have it. Then I bought the Keen dust catcher. It took a couple of hours to figure out how to safely disassemble the Rout-R-Lift to install it and I had to buy offset wrenches for my Bosch 1617 router, but now my table, and the tools in it, aren't covered with dust and chips every time I use the table.
Mar 26, 2016 11:40:05 #
jerryc41 wrote:
I have a basic Skil router and a basic Skil router... (show quote)
You may want to make your own router table. A scrap or "surplus" counter top works great. There is a company called Eagle America, they sell router accessories, extra thick bass plates, longer screws, height adjuster knobs etc. and of course router bits.
Have fun:)
Mar 26, 2016 11:59:54 #
Jerry, check your PM. I have some woodworking experience and have provided you some info.
Mar 26, 2016 12:46:04 #
jgregg wrote:
Jerry, check your PM. I have some woodworking experience and have provided you some info.
Why not share it with everybody?
Mar 26, 2016 13:09:02 #
mickeys wrote:
if you have a pawn shop near by try there
No pawn shops, although I did consider ebay.
Mar 26, 2016 13:13:13 #
moonhawk wrote:
Why not share it with everybody?
Sharing: Basically, more info would be nice. The total price would be over $300 for router and table, and there are lots of peripherals needed/wanted.
Mar 26, 2016 13:16:20 #
CaltechNerd wrote:
BEWARE Jerry! br It's a proven fact that the woodw... (show quote)
Yes, I know all about wood GAS. I've been cooperating with it for years, along with mechanical tool GAS.
That JessEm looks interesting, but not something I could justify. Is the Bosch 1617 adjustable from above the table without the JessEm? You like the 1617?
Mar 26, 2016 13:18:26 #
mrtobin wrote:
You may want to make your own router table. A scrap or "surplus" counter top works great. There is a company called Eagle America, they sell router accessories, extra thick bass plates, longer screws, height adjuster knobs etc. and of course router bits.
Have fun:)
Have fun:)
That was another thought. I'll take a look at Eagle America and see what they have. Although a large countertop would be nice, space is limited in my two-car garage because of cabinets and tools.
Mar 26, 2016 13:20:22 #
John_F wrote:
I once thought to make some frames and got flummoxed on two things. First, the table was too small and the feed instability at beginning and end compromised the result. Second, cutting the corners precise were not.
Yes, those 45° cuts can be tough. As much as I tried for perfection, they are not perfect, but they are acceptable. I have a screw-type frame to square-up the four sides for gluing. That worked pretty well.
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