By Ken Schulte
This is the continuation of buying a Router for your Router Table.
Collet size
Most routers today are sold with two different sized collets. The collet is the device that holds the bit in the motor.
- The two most common sizes are 1/2" and 1/4".
These two sizes match the two sizes of router bits sold. So why do you need both? 1/2" bits are more robust than 1/4" bits. If your doing larger jobs like raised panel, you want a little more strength in your bit size which mostly relates to safety. 1/4" sized bits are more widely available in a larger variety of styles. If your looking for some smaller bits for smaller details (like a small cove bit) they most likely come with a 1/4" diameter. Most routers accept both. If they don't, it is somewhat limiting, so I recommend buying a router that has both collets.
Power
Bigger is better right? I could go on and on about this subject and most likely argue with a lot of people. Think of it this way. Most men think they need the most HP that is available. Its kind of like a car, if it has a bigger motor we generally think its better. Is it? Not always and here is why.
Bigger does not mean you can take more off in one pass. You can but is it smart?
Every wood species is different. If you take big chunks off of certain species you can
burn it or gouge it or endanger yourself. Why do this? Taking smaller bites and
several passes is the sure way to quality and safety.
If your in production and need speed and efficiency, buy a shaper and a power feeder. For most of us wood workers a 1 HP will do all that you could ever ask for in a router. The goal is to work in your shop with all of your fingers and both sets of eyeballs in tack. Don't jeopardize that with the thinking that you need 3 HP to spin that big router bit. I have a 3 HP pig of a router that is collecting dust because its so big and heavy that It's a pain to use. Again, preference is the prevailing factor. Bigger is not always better.
Amps verses HP
Well in short, if you have a 15 Amp router and you plug it into your 10 amp wall plug and you decide to run a dust collector at the same time, guess what happens? Yes it's frustrating to stop and rewire your shop but it happens? . A good review on Amps and Horspower can be read here.
EVS
Electronic Variable Speed lets you control the speed of the motor. You want to do this if you plan on turning bigger profile bits. You cannot put a large router bit in your router and spin it at full speed. Some are too big and become very very dangereous. You will need to control the speed externally. This feature is becoming standard on most routers offered today.offered today.
Combos
Buying a combo pack can be like getting two routers for the price of one. Spending the extra cash is worth it to some people, only you can be the judge.
Price
Do your homework. Price them out. The internet is a great place to price routers than from just buying from Lowe's or Home Depot. Look around. If your on a budget, try Ebay, but stick to a name brand.
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