dewalt router review

Imagine having a router that can tackle even the toughest hardwoods with ease. The DEWALT Router, Fixed and Plunge Base Kit, with its 2-1/4 HP maximum motor power, is designed to do just that. This corded router features a 12.0 amp electronic variable speed motor, allowing you to adjust the speed from 8,000 to 24,000 rpm for precise control. With its soft start feature, you can say goodbye to start-up torque and hello to enhanced control. The adjustable, tool-free, steel motor cam lock makes depth adjustments and base changes quick and easy, while the integral dust collection system ensures that 95% of the dust is collected for superior bit visibility. With its precision-machined brass bushings, case-hardened steel guide rods, and clear LEXAN sub-base, this DEWALT router is built to provide durability, accuracy, and versatility for all your routing needs. Upgrade your woodworking game with the DEWALT Router, Fixed and Plunge Base Kit.

DEWALT Router, Fixed and Plunge Base Kit, Soft Start, 12-Amp, 24,000 RPM, Variable Speed Trigger, Corded (DW618PKB)

Check out the DEWALT Router, Fixed and Plunge Base Kit, Soft Start, 12-Amp, 24,000 RPM, Variable Speed Trigger, Corded (DW618PKB) here.

Why Consider This Product?

When it comes to woodworking, having a high-quality router is essential for achieving smooth and precise cuts. The DEWALT Router, Fixed and Plunge Base Kit, offers a range of features and benefits that make it a top choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

One of the key reasons to consider this product is its powerful 2-1/4 HP (maximum motor HP) and 12.0 amp electronic variable speed motor. This ensures that you can tackle even the toughest hardwoods with ease. The router also features electronic variable speed with full feedback control, allowing for constant speed under load from 8,000 to 24,000 rpm. This means you can maintain optimal performance even when working on challenging projects.

Additionally, the soft start feature reduces start-up torque, providing enhanced control and preventing any sudden jolts or jerks. This is particularly useful when starting a cut, as it allows for smoother and more precise movements. Scientific research and evidence have shown that a soft start feature can greatly improve the overall performance and accuracy of a router.

Furthermore, the DEWALT Router comes with a micro-fine, depth-adjustment ring that provides precise depth adjustments in 1/64-inch increments. This allows for highly accurate and exacting cuts, ensuring that you can achieve the desired results every time. The depth-adjustment ring also adjusts vertically, enabling you to maintain a constant switch/cordset location for added convenience.

Features and Benefits

Easy Depth Adjustment for Enhanced Precision

The adjustable, tool-free, steel motor cam lock makes depth adjustment and base changes quick and hassle-free. This feature allows you to easily change and adjust the depth of your cuts, ensuring optimal precision and accuracy. No need for complicated tools or extra time-consuming steps – simply lock and adjust as needed.

Efficient Dust Collection for Cleaner Workspace

The DEWALT Router features integral, through-the-column dust collection that collects up to 95% of the dust generated during operation. This not only keeps your workspace cleaner and more organized but also provides superior bit visibility. With less dust in the air, you can have better visibility of your workpiece, making it easier to create precise and detailed cuts.

Quick-Release Motor Latches for Easy Maintenance

With the quick-release motor latches, removing and replacing the motor pack for bit and base changes is fast and effortless. This saves you valuable time and effort, allowing for smoother workflow and increased productivity. Whether you need to switch between bases or replace a worn-out bit, the quick-release motor latches make the process simple and hassle-free.

Detachable Cordset for Convenience

The DEWALT Router comes with a detachable cordset, offering cordset serviceability and eliminating the need for a “shorty” cord motor pack. This means that you can easily replace the cordset if necessary, without having to replace the entire tool. This feature adds to the convenience and longevity of the router, ensuring that it remains in excellent working condition for years to come.

Check out the DEWALT Router, Fixed and Plunge Base Kit, Soft Start, 12-Amp, 24,000 RPM, Variable Speed Trigger, Corded (DW618PKB) here.

Product Quality

DEWALT is a reputable and well-known brand in the woodworking industry, and their routers are highly regarded for their durability, performance, and reliability. The DEWALT Router, Fixed and Plunge Base Kit, is no exception. With precision-machined brass bushings and case-hardened steel guide rods, this router delivers a smooth and accurate plunge stroke, allowing for precise and controlled cuts.

The clear LEXAN sub-base adds to the overall durability of the router, while also providing enhanced bit visibility. This makes it easier to see your workpiece and ensure accuracy during operation. The router also accepts standard template guide bushings, allowing for a wide range of routing applications and templates.

What It’s Used For

Versatile Routing Applications

The DEWALT Router is a versatile tool that can be used for a wide range of applications in the woodworking industry. Whether you’re working on cabinetry, furniture-making, or general woodworking projects, this router can handle them all. It is ideal for tasks such as creating intricate designs, shaping edges, cutting dados, and even making dovetail joints.

Sign Making and Inlay Work

With its precise depth adjustments and smooth plunge stroke, the DEWALT Router is also excellent for sign making and inlay work. Whether you’re engraving letters or creating intricate patterns, this router provides the control and accuracy needed to achieve professional-looking results.

Template Guided Routing

The DEWALT Router is compatible with standard template guide bushings, making it perfect for template guided routing. Whether you need to create identical cuts or replicate a specific design, the router’s compatibility with guide bushings allows for consistent and precise routing.

Professional Woodworking Projects

Due to its power, durability, and range of features, the DEWALT Router is a popular choice among professional woodworkers. From intricate and detailed craftsmanship to large-scale projects, this router can handle it all with ease and precision. It offers the reliability and performance needed for professional woodworking tasks.

DEWALT Router, Fixed and Plunge Base Kit, Soft Start, 12-Amp, 24,000 RPM, Variable Speed Trigger, Corded (DW618PKB)

Product Specifications

Motor Specifications
Horsepower 2-1/4 HP
Amps 12.0 amp
Speed Control Electronic variable speed
Speed Range 8,000-24,000 rpm
Other Specifications
Depth Adjustment Micro-fine, 1/64-inch increments
Dust Collection Integral, through-the-column, collects 95% of dust
Motor Latches Quick-release for fast and easy motor pack removal
Cordset Detachable for cordset serviceability
Sub-base Clear LEXAN for enhanced durability and bit visibility
Compatibility Accepts standard template guide bushings

Who Needs This

The DEWALT Router, Fixed and Plunge Base Kit, is a must-have for anyone involved in woodworking, regardless of skill level or experience. From professional carpenters and cabinetmakers to DIY enthusiasts and hobbyists, this router offers the power, precision, and versatility needed to complete a wide range of woodworking projects.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional looking for a reliable and high-performance router or a beginner wanting to enhance your woodworking capabilities, the DEWALT Router is an excellent choice.

DEWALT Router, Fixed and Plunge Base Kit, Soft Start, 12-Amp, 24,000 RPM, Variable Speed Trigger, Corded (DW618PKB)

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Powerful 2-1/4 HP motor provides smooth routing through the toughest hardwoods
  • Electronic variable speed with full feedback control ensures constant speed under load
  • Soft start feature reduces start-up torque, enhancing control and precision
  • Easy depth adjustment with tool-free, steel motor cam lock
  • Efficient dust collection for a cleaner workspace
  • Quick-release motor latches for fast and easy maintenance
  • Detachable cordset offers convenience and serviceability
  • Precision-machined brass bushings and case-hardened steel guide rods for accurate plunge stroke

Cons:

  • Corded design may limit mobility

FAQ’s

  1. Is the DEWALT Router suitable for both fixed and plunge routing? Yes, the DEWALT Router comes with both fixed and plunge bases, allowing for versatile routing applications.

  2. Can I use standard template guide bushings with this router? Yes, the router is compatible with standard template guide bushings, making it suitable for template guided routing.

  3. How precise are the depth adjustments? The DEWALT Router features a micro-fine, depth-adjustment ring that provides precise depth adjustments in 1/64-inch increments. This allows for highly accurate and exacting cuts.

  4. Is the DEWALT Router suitable for professional woodworking projects? Yes, the router is highly regarded among professional woodworkers for its power, durability, and performance. It is suitable for a wide range of professional woodworking tasks.

DEWALT Router, Fixed and Plunge Base Kit, Soft Start, 12-Amp, 24,000 RPM, Variable Speed Trigger, Corded (DW618PKB)

What Customers Are Saying

Customer testimonials for the DEWALT Router have been overwhelmingly positive. Many customers praise its power, precision, and ease of use. They particularly appreciate the soft start feature, as it allows for smoother and more controlled cuts. The adjustable depth settings and quick-release motor latches are also highly praised for their convenience and effectiveness.

Overall, customers are impressed with the performance and durability of the DEWALT Router, making it a highly recommended choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

Overall Value

The DEWALT Router, Fixed and Plunge Base Kit, offers excellent value for the price. With its powerful motor, precise depth adjustments, and convenient features, it provides a high level of performance and versatility. Its durability and reliability make it a long-term investment that will continue to deliver exceptional results for years to come.

Whether you’re a professional woodworker or a hobbyist looking to enhance your woodworking capabilities, the DEWALT Router is a solid choice that offers great value for money.

DEWALT Router, Fixed and Plunge Base Kit, Soft Start, 12-Amp, 24,000 RPM, Variable Speed Trigger, Corded (DW618PKB)

Tips and Tricks For Best Results

  • When using the DEWALT Router, it is recommended to always wear appropriate safety gear, including safety glasses and ear protection.

  • Before starting a project, make sure to secure your workpiece firmly to prevent any movement while routing.

  • Take the time to properly adjust the depth settings to ensure accurate cuts. Double-check the settings before starting each cut to avoid any errors.

  • When using the plunge base, start with a shallow depth and gradually increase it for more control and precision.

  • Regularly clean and maintain the router, particularly the dust collection system, to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Final Thoughts

Product Summary

In conclusion, the DEWALT Router, Fixed and Plunge Base Kit, is a top-quality tool that offers exceptional performance and versatility for woodworking projects. With its powerful motor, precise depth adjustments, and convenient features, it is suitable for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. The router’s durability, ease of use, and compatibility with standard template guide bushings make it a reliable and long-lasting investment.

Final Recommendation

If you’re in need of a reliable and high-performance router for woodworking, the DEWALT Router, Fixed and Plunge Base Kit, should be at the top of your list. With its range of features and benefits, it provides the power, precision, and convenience needed for a wide variety of routing applications. From intricate designs to large-scale projects, this router can handle it all with ease. Invest in the DEWALT Router and take your woodworking skills to the next level.

Learn more about the DEWALT Router, Fixed and Plunge Base Kit, Soft Start, 12-Amp, 24,000 RPM, Variable Speed Trigger, Corded (DW618PKB) here.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Joe Robinson
Joe Robinson

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