Router Table Help

[Randy Johns]

I received a Harbor Freight router and router table as a Christmas gift.  It seems to be a great starter table.  Can someone provide any comments or video links on using a router table?  The router is the one shop tool that intimidates me and I want to know more about how to properly use the table and the right bits.  Any advice is appreciated!

[Ken Darga]

Being ''new'' to routers, I'd suggest obtaining some books on ''routers''.

Become familiar with routers before getting into table routing.

One book I recommend to my students, is ''Routers---The Missing Shop Manual''.

The tool information you need at your fingertips.

Published by Fox Chapel.

[John Schaben]

Hi Randy - I second Kens suggestion on picking up a book or two on routing. Almost anything by Bill Hylton is excellent, Woodworking with a router is especially good as he covers most aspects of routing and includes plans for special jigs. He also emphasizes safety.

Speaking of safety, unlike a table saw, you NEVER run the workpiece between the table fence and the cutting tool (bit). You also want to feed your stock from right to left as you are facing the table.

Good Luck

[John Schaben]

You asked about videos. Youtube is full of videos on woodworking and routers are no exception. Here's one of the better ones.  Youtube router table use

There are a lot more, just search