Best Wood Router for Beginners
As a woodworking hobbyist, you might be asking which is the best wood router for beginners. Post this question on any online forum and you will get many different opinions. Most professionals will tell you that it really all depends on the type of project that you are working on. They will also typically tell you that they have 5 to 10 routers on hand in their workshop, because of this reality. While we agree, we do feel that there are some standard features to look for in a wood router when shopping around as a beginner. By focusing on these particular features, the beginner can start to narrow the field of preferred woodworking tools. Lets first look at these features that we feel are important for the beginner.
Look for the following features in a wood router when comparing models as a beginner.
- 1/2 inch Collet: This is important as it will work with both 1/2 and 1/4 inch router bits.
- 2 to 3 Horsepower: A router in this range can do a great number of tasks, and is not too unwieldy for smaller projects.
- Variable Speed: You need a router that allows you to vary the speed for different sized router bits. Remember, the larger the bit, the lower the speed.
- Fixed/Plunge Base: As a beginner, you will probably only have 1 router. Choosing one with the versatility of fixed and plunge bases is the more economical way to be able to tackle a variety of projects.
Looking at these key features, you can use this Comparison Chart to help narrow your choices down. There are 2 models that we recommend for the beginner looking for a versatile router that is suitable for most hobbyist woodworking projects:
#1 Hitachi KM12VC
The Hitachi KM12VC is a very smooth, stable woodworking tool that fits the bill for the beginner router. As far as cost, the price is right on this model as well. Also, Hitachi is a brand known for its quality and durability, and with Hitachi’s 5 year warranty, you can’t go wrong with the KM12VC. To watch and read our full review including real customer feedback and expert advice, visit Hitachi Router KM12VC Review
#2 Bosch 1617EVSPK
The Bosch 1617EVSPK wood router is a very popular, great all-around woodworking tool. There’s a reason why this Bosch router is at the top of our Top 10 Best Selling Wood Routers list. This router has the perfect combination of power and speed. While it is a little more costly than the above Hitachi model, the beginning woodworker still can’t go wrong with the 1617EVSPK. To watch and read our full review including real customer feedback and expert advice, visit Bosch 1617EVSPK Review