DeWalts compact router packs a punch
DeWalt unveiled its new compact router, which can be best described as a laminate trimmer on steroids, at IWF 2010. Available as both a fixed-base unit and a fixed/plunge-base combination…
DeWalt unveiled its new compact router, which can be best described as a laminate trimmer on steroids, at IWF 2010. Available as both a fixed-base unit and a fixed/plunge-base combination kit, the new router merges the ergonomic features associated with trimmers and the power of full-sized routers to deliver the performance and versatility building professionals require, says product manager Bill Harman.
"DeWalt's new compact router offers woodworkers a number of features for operator control and ease of use when handling a variety of applications, from small bevel cuts to large edge profiles and heavy flush trimming," says Harmon.
In an attempt to put the power of a mid-sized router in the palm of a user's hand, the new router has been equipped with a 1-1/4 hp motor, offering an RPM range of 16,000 to 27,000. The router weighs a little more than four pounds.
"One of the unique things about this particular product is that many of the compact router or laminate trimmer products today don't offer enough power for user applications outside of laminate work," says Harman.
"Small shop owners will want to do chamfers, roundovers - all your edge-type profiles. So we said let's give them the power to do a lot of these common applications. This does a lot of common applications and gives you a lot of ergonomic functionality to do those fast."
The plunge-base version, which weighs about six pounds, provides a simple and accurate way to make interior cuts, such as flutes, inlays and mortises. It is offered as part of the combination kit featuring a depth scale and marker, a release-to-lock lever to maintain the designated depth setting and rubber handles for a non-slip grip.
"The plunge mechanism delivers excellent user control via its smooth and light depth stroke and the five-step adjustable turret stop enables stepped plunge cuts for accuracy and consistency," says Harmon.
The router also has electronic speed control and soft-start features, two LED work lights, spindle lock and an extended 1/4" collet.
The fixed-base router sells for $139. The fixed/plunge-base combination kit sells for $199. Additional accessories include a dust adaptor for the fixed base, a dust extractor for the plunge base and template guides.
Contact: DeWalt Power Tools, 701 E. Joppa Road, Baltimore, MD 21286. Tel: 888-678-7278. www.dewalt.com
This article originally appeared in the November 2010 issue.
