What kind of router to buy for router table?

[Bob Stout]

What would be a good router to buy to mount in a router table?  I would like something that will last. Thanks for any help !!

[THOM RIDER]

Porter cable is the no. 1 pick,

But a bosch is a good second choice.

[Ken Darga]

lots of info here

http://kregjig.ning.com/main/search/search?q=router

[Ken Darga]

For a PC, the 893, is the way to go, for an all-around model/size router.

Fixed base and plunge base.

Mounted the fixed base in the table, and 

use the plunge base for hand-held routing.

It's easy to transfer the unit from the fixed base to the plunge base, and visa-versa---

just flip the locking/unlocking lever, turn & lift.

Bosch makes an excellent equivalent size router.

A larger variety of router accessories are readily available for the PC. 

[Jay Boutwell]

Hi Bob, I have used router tables for several years in a professional woodworking cabinet business.  I had started with a 3 1/4 hp hitachi mv-12 and used it for several years.  It finally gave up the ghost and I replaced it with a triton Tra001 about 2 years ago.  it too is a 3 1/4 hp ,  Both were plunge routers of which I removed the return springs and turned them upside down in a router table. Both were running a 1/2 inch collet and turning one of the biggest router bits available for panel raising, a 3 1/2" dia bit with a back cutter.

I have been using the triton working it hard making raised panel doors and custom molding cutting hickory and other hard woods.  It is performing as good if not better that the hitachi. There are some features that I like over the hitachi as it is adjustable through the table using a crank.  This allows you to make adjustments without having to purchase a separate router raising tooling. both had the adjustable speed control and a locking spindle allowing  one wrench bit changing.  About the only addition you need is to bend your wrench to allow a deeper access down into the router table to loosen and tighten  the collet nut.

I might point out that the biggest mistake many make in choosing a router to use under a router table is to purchase one that is under powered.   Both had the soft start feature and the startup was smooth therefore for use in a router table there is no question that I would go for the 3 1/4 hp over the lower powered ones.  Just having the extra power available is very desirable when cutting numerous cuts in a cabinet door building situation.  If I was to have to make a choice I would choose the triton.  It is a rugged build router.  I hope this helps you have some information to help you choose.

[michael evans]

I agree with jay, got the 31/4hp in my table its a great router particularly for a table.In the end its up to individual preferences,you pay your money you make your choice .

[Michael Garrett]

Triton or Porter Cable  7518 are my choice.  I have the PC7518 in my Kreg Table.  What table do you have? For table I'd recommend this: http://www.jessemdirect.com/Mast_R_Lift_Excel_II_Router_Table_Packa...