Triton - MOF001KC 2-1/4 HP Plunge Router (Rating: 5)

After starting a forum topic recently to solicit opinions about what type of variable-speed router I should buy to leave mounted in my table for the most part, I eventually decided to go with the Trtion MOF001KC 2 1/4 HP plunge router. I thought hard about going with a more powerful motor, but I decided that my needs at the present time just didn't justify it. If I decide I need something bigger later on, I figured the 2 1/4 would still be a dandy machine to have around for handheld work.

The main factors in choosing this particular model were the excellent reviews it has received (top rated in its class by Fine Woodworking magazine), and the convenience of above-the table bit changes. I purchased it through Amazon for $199, which included free shipping. It came with an edge-guide/circle cutting attachment (haven't figured that out yet), and complete set of guide bushings, in a heavy-duty plastic case.

I unpacked everything this morning, and saw right away that it was not going to mount on my little old Ryobi table without some modifications. I had to drill a new set of holes in the table, and go to the hardware store for some slightly longer 1/4-20 machine screws than the ones that come with the router. I also had to drill a hole for the winder attachment to raise and lower the router. None of this proved to be any big deal, and I was up and running pretty quickly.

I immediately proceeded to fall in love with this router! Everything works exactly as advertised. It runs very smoothly at all speeds, and is quieter than my little PC690. But the thing that really makes my heart flutter is how easy it is to crank this sucker up and change the bit above the table, with one wrench, in seconds. The winder also moves the router in small enough increments to allow very accurate height adjustments. The only slight downside is a safety feature that requires you to reach under the table and flip the power switch off in order to be able to crank the router up all the way. This is really not a big issue at all, becausae the switch is large and easy to locate by touch.

I have wanted a router lift for a long time, but was put off by the cost. This router allows me to cross that lift off my wish list and start thinking about what other tools I can buy with those dollars. I'm totally impressed with the ease of operation, and the quality of construction on this tool.