DEWALT DW618K 2-1/4 HP Electronic Variable Speed Fixed Base Router with So Start Kit

Amazon Sales Rank: #64514 in Home ImprovementBrand: DEWALTModel: DW618KNumber of items: 1Dimensions: 9.44" h x 15.75" w x 14.25" l, 17.00 pounds

This fixed-base D-handle router from DeWalt has all the design features to make it a popular choice with woodworkers and professional carpenters for freehand routing. The tool's powerhouse is a smooth-running, 12 amp, 2-1/4-horsepower variable-speed motor with soft start and a spindle lock. It offers more than enough power to make precise, clean cuts in tough hardwood materials without bogging down. A micro-fine adjustment ring is used to dial in the height setting at 1/64-inch increments, so the motor itself doesn't need to be turned, and as a consequence, the position of the switch and cord doesn't change every time your cut-depth does. This same motor can be used with DeWalt's DW6182 plunge base or their DW6184 two-handle fixed base, and DeWalt has thoughtfully made motor removal and base changing a quick and easy, tool-free operation. As finishing touches, the toggle switch on the motor (switched on for operation and overridden by the locking trigger in the D-handle grip) is sealed against dust penetration, and the cord is fully detachable for use with other DeWalt bases and to protect it in storage. DeWalt's engineers and designers clearly spent a lot of time making sure this router package addressed every need a woodworker could have, and the result is a tool that stands with the best in its price range. This model includes a carrying case. --Brian TrinenDEWALT DW618K 2-1/4 HP Electronic Variable Speed Fixed Base Router with So Start Kit

Most helpful customer reviews7 of 7 people found the following review helpful.Easy to handle and versatile...By A CustomerThe DW618K is great router. I previously owed the DW621K 2hp Plunge router, which I wanted for the power and versatily in woodworking. However, I found it very bulky. THIS NEW ROUTER FROM DEWALT IS COMPACT ENOUGH THAT IT IS EASY TO USE, YET PACKS THE PUNCH YOU NEED FOR BIGGER JOBS. The versality of this machine is wonderful, being able to switch from the fixed base to plunge base very quickly. The heigth adjustment on the fixed base I have found easy and simple to use as well. Overall, great power tool...worth the money!5 of 5 people found the following review helpful.This is a very good routerBy Scott PointonI debated between this router and the comparable Bosch model for a while before finally choosing the DeWalt. Three things sold me on this router: the depth adjustment ring, the easy motor removal, and the power. After using it in my router table I can say that all three of those features are absolutely top notch. I really like the depth adjustment ring - this makes changing bit height in my router table VERY easy and precise (no more spinning the motor housing). The easy motor removal is a plus too - all you do is release the motor lock (one handed I might add) and then squeeze the quick release tabs on each side of the motor housing to cause the motor to slide right out of the base. Thats it - it could not be simpler. As for power, I have not tried to spin any huge bits in this thing, but I have used some serious ogee bits in white oak, poplar, and pine. In every case, the motor handled the cuts in one pass without bogging down at all and the cuts were super smooth and burn free (I use Freud bits). In my experience, the electronic variable speed works very well. The only drawback of this tool (and the reason I am not rating it 5 stars) is that I find the bit changing to be cumbersome. I have an older Ryobi router with a fantastic spindle lock that allows you to "lock" the spindle and then use both hands for the bit change. On this DeWalt, there is a spindle lock, but it consists of a spring loaded button that must be held in WHILE you are turning the wrench with the other hand. I feel this could have been designed better. Overall, this is a great tool at a fair price. If I could do it all over again I would buy this same router.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful.One BAD-ASS Machine!By Jamie MarshI've been working as a carpenter for more than 18 years, and this is by far the best small router I've used. Not only is it powerful, but it's light, well-balanced, and operates smoothly. It's like having a giant shop router in the palm of your hand. If you're looking for a router, I highly recommend the compact and versatile Dewalt DW618K - it kicks ass at the job site.See all 6 customer reviews...