For this year's new woodworking tool, I am getting my first router. I am trying to decide between two popular models - the Dewalt DWP611PK and Bosch 1617EVSPK. I've seen a lot of posts that recommend the Bosch and am really tempted to go that way. I'm limited on space, so that is a major consideration, and also this will probably be the only router I own for a few years. Which one will offer me the most flexibility as well as meeting my needs for light to medium use? I'm pretty sure I know the answer, but just the sanity check.
I just bought my second Bosch 1617EVSPK. I already have one that usually stays in the router table. I had an old PC 690 which I sold recently to buy the second Bosch. The only thing I wish the Bosch had is a spindle lock to make bit changes easier.
I bought the new one at the Woodworking show in St. Louis for $179 as opposed to $219 everywhere else.
I'm limited on space, so that is a major consideration, and also this will probably be the only router I own for a few years.
Hah, bet you can't just have one. First you need a router for a table, then you need a hand held router, then a plunge router, then a trim router. I'm not sure how many routers I own at this point, I think I'm up to 5. They take up limited space with the exception of a router table. My Bosch is my favorite router, I do not own a Dewalt so I can't give you a specific comparison. Good luck.
Bosch would get my vote as well-especially while I had only one router. The fixed base is designed to be table mounted (most other routers use the plunge base in the table). This way, when you do add your first table, you can mount the fixed base in it and use the plunge base for hand held by just swapping the motor. When hand held, a plunge base can work just like fixed base, but a fixed base can never plunge.
This may not make sense today-but one day it will. The week after that-you'll buy a second one anyway!!
earl
The Dewalt model you should compare the Bosch to is the model 618 rather than the model 611. I have owned that router with the plunge and fixed bases for many years and routed thousands of linear feet. It has just been excellent. I haven't tried the Bosch so I don't feel confident in comparing the two.
Well, the reason I was asking about these two specifically is because they are the ones I was shopping for. I know they are in different classes, but when looking for a first router, these two always seemed to be recommended. I think what I am wanting now is a router in the 2 1/4 hp class, like the Bosch or Dewalt 618. Time to start looking for comparisons on those two and others in that class.
I have both the routers you mentioned, as well as a couple Dewalt 618 kits.
The Bosch is not a good design, for many reasons (top heavy, slippery handles, difficult to switch bases, poor internal spring mechanism on the quick release).
The 611 is a great router, but it is a compact router. If I could only get one it would be the 618 hands down.
It has a lower stance that makes it much more stable. It mills accurate dovetails and inlays for me, and has been a trustworthy tool.
I have several Bosch tools that are great, but as far as routers I never reach for the Bosch. Just my personal observation.
The mid-sized Bosch to get is the MRC23 a big improvement over the 1617. The 611 is an excellent compact router but it wouldn't be my choice for a single all round router.
So, I'm going to go with the Dewalt 618. Does the DW618PK include the centering cone? I've seen sites where it is included and ones where it is not. Do I need it? Also, what are some necessary accessories I should be considering?
So, I m going to go with the Dewalt 618. Does the DW618PK include the centering cone? I ve seen sites where it is included and ones where it is not. Do I need it? Also, what are some necessary accessories I should be considering?
I have two 1617Evs kits, and the DeWalt 611 compact, and a Triton 3 1/4hp mounted under a table.
The 1617 can do just about anything you ask it to. The fixed base is good for mounting in a router table and the plunge model for hand held operations.
I have used them to cut raised panels and exact width dadoes.
Good luck.
I don't think you will be disappointed.
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