Around $100 router for Subharmonic

[subharmonic]

So I got a little fun cash for my birthday. I want to buy a plunge router, I have a 15+ year old Craftsman fixed base one that makes me say special words when I try to adjust depth.

So on a search I went and came back with 2 models that I like.

Skil 1830
http://www.skiltools.com/en/AllTools/Ca ... l?pid=1830

or

Craftsman 27669
http://www.craftsman.com/shc/s/p_10155_ ... ockType=L6

Basically IMO they both feel like solid builds, read a lot of great stuff about the skil and little to nothing about the Craftsmen.

Skil pros:
-Dual base allows option to make a easy mount under table, easy in/out router. Along with a DIY lift should be quick for changing bits adjusting depth
-more reviews, most favorable
-not sure the need for a separate fixed base besides above mentioned one but it has one
-price can get a new one for under $100 shipped

Skil cons:
-reputation (I have a B&D jigsaw and belt sander that work fine for my needs)
-compatibility not sure if they have standards in the router world
-plunge springs seemed to push back a little too much, this may go away after some use.

Crafts pros:
-LED display seems nice, just enter your parameters and away you go
-have a constant speed governor to power through bog downs
-more power 2.25hp@10a vs 2.25@12a
-my crappysman router is running after a decade and a half (and I know my dad used it like crazy)
-I have a spare router to table mount/this new one has some type of depth adjustment from the base so it may be not a big deal

Craftsman cons:
-LED screen is another thing to break and a new technology/product run
-a little more than $100
-my current Craftsman router depth adjustment makes me very angry, what feature on this one will
-I can't find the manual online

Any comments, impressions, reviews appreciated. Lets try not to turn this into a brand flame or hey you should spend 2x the cash on a pro model. I tried the other manufacturers lines in this price range and found them not suitable for me, one way or another.

[DJPhatman]

This Craftsman router is a better deal, and a mighty fine router. I own this model, and it is well worth the $110 for it. The Skil router won't have much for accessories, like table mounts, and spare parts are a bummer to get.

[Jon Barnhardt]

Check bisman, there were two decent ones on there last week for less than $50

[Bill Fitzmaurice]

I wouldn't buy anything from Skil, or Black and Decker, it's all crap. Some Craftsman is OK. I have a 3HP Ryobi and a 2HP Hitachi, both are solid. Porter Cable and Makita are also very good. Be sure to get no less than 1 3/4 HP with a 1/2" collet. 1/4" collets are strictly for light duty usage. For freehand no more than 2HP, or the weight is unwieldy.

[subharmonic]

Check bisman, there were two decent ones on there last week for less than $50

Fixed base. No bueno, got one of those already.

[bzb]

This is the one I recently got last year:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/ ... efurbished

A little more than your budget, but the dual bases have come in handy, variable speed as well. Can take 1/4" or 1/2" bits. Switch is top mounted, which I really like. Cord is very long, and lighted. Has a clear base and a centering jig, and I can use most of my Porter Cable accessories because the holes line up well.

Also on the plus side, if it does break/die, you can take it back to a Home Depot and talk with a manager. They'll likely exchange it for you even without a receipt.

To me, that's worth another $50. Might not be to you.

[subharmonic]

Also on the plus side, if it does break/die, you can take it back to a Home Depot and talk with a manager. They'll likely exchange it for you even without a receipt.

Nearest HD is 2.5 hours away. Would consider it if it was local.

[Jon Barnhardt]

Check bisman, there were two decent ones on there last week for less than $50

Fixed base. No bueno, got one of those already.

There was a plunge ryobi the other day for $20. Must be sold already...

[subharmonic]

Check bisman, there were two decent ones on there last week for less than $50

Fixed base. No bueno, got one of those already.

There was a plunge ryobi the other day for $20. Must be sold already...

Ahhhh

[el_ingeniero]

EBay. I got a P/C 2-1/4 HP fixed base used for $71, then scored a plunge base for $45. I just for fun I got one of those quick change collets from Whiteside machine off Amazon. I do have to replace the strain relief on the power cable, but that's a cheap part.

[el_ingeniero]

Deleted dupe post.

[Jon Barnhardt]

I just for fun I got one of those quick change collets from Whiteside machine off Amazon.

Those look very interesting... Just a allen wrench to change bits?

[el_ingeniero]

I just for fun I got one of those quick change collets from Whiteside machine off Amazon.

Those look very interesting... Just a allen wrench to change bits?

Yep, and it uses cam action rather than a clamp action. The initial setup to minimize vibration takes a while. Took me an hour or so to get it right, but it runs as smooth as the OE collet. The only downside is that it increases the depth of the bit somewhat.

[subharmonic]

Actually I am looking at a Rigid R29302 now. You can get them all day long for ~$150 maybe a little cheaper with a current auction.

I am still a little confused to the need for a dual base. If you get a decent plunge shouldn't it be all you need?

[Jon Barnhardt]

Depends on your usage. I keep my fixed base mounted to either my table or track saw base so if I want a "naked" base I use the plunge...