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Choosing a Wood Router
The powerful motor of a router tool spins a bit at speeds exceeding 30,000 revolution per minute (RPM). That allows the bit to shave edges off wood planks, cut grooves and mortises and create patterns.
Carpenters use this handy tool to cut mortises for door hinges and trim plastic laminate edges, among other things. Their wood routers are typically smaller and easier to use than the one a woodworker might employ in the shop.
The choice of router helps distinguish between a carpenter and a woodworker. Woodworkers more often need to shape the wood to make it more decorative or do complex joinery. Consequently, woodworkers use more powerful and accurate routers than those carpenters bring to jobsites.
A router is a handheld tool, but can be mounted to a router table and used as a stationary tool, much like a table saw. Whether you use a router on a table or freehand, the results depend on the bit you use.
There is a wide selection for creating round overs, concave edges, angled edges (chamfers), complex curves (ogees), straight edges and grooves (dadoes and rabbets). You can also use a router with a jig to make dovetails, bore dowel holes and cut mortises.
Get to know the different types of router tools and accessories so you can choose which will work best for you.
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Fixed-Base Router
A fixed-base router like the DeWalt DW616 has few frills. It features a flat metal base, powerful motor, a pair of ergonomic handles, and depth control that allows you to adjust the distance the bit extends below the base.
The handles are important because a router generates a powerful centrifugal force when it’s operating, and it’s easy to lose control. Because the router bit rotates clockwise, always move the tool from left to right to ensure the bit cuts into the wood and doesn’t spin away from you.
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