What's the difference between a plunge router and a regular router?

In other words, if you set a fixed base router at a cut depth of 1/4", the router bit protrudes past the base 1/4" until you change the depth. A plunge base router is designed so that you can preset the cut depth and then lower (“plunge”) the bit into the cut with the router's base flat on the surface of the material.

What is the advantage of a plunge router?

The housing allows for controlled vertical movement during a cut, so you can plunge the bit into the surface of your work piece without concern. Plunge routers make it easy to make through cuts, deep grooves and mortises, as well as pattern and template work.

Do I need a trim router or plunge router?

A regular router is more versatile and better suited to large scale routing projects than a trim router. On the other hand, a trim router is cheaper, more portable, and a better tool for precision-cutting and trimming laminates. Generally, both router types can be used to hollow out wood.

Do I need a plunge router if I have a router table?

Modern plunge routers are very sturdily built, and you won't notice any degrade in performance. The best reason to use a plunge router in a table is because you can only afford one router and a big plunge router is it.

Can a plunge router be used as a fixed router?

Yes, a plunge router will handle this for you but you will need to keep a close eye on the depth you've set. Reintroducing the router to the work piece in a plunge motion could affect the accuracy of the depth. However, with a fixed base router, you set the depth and that's it; that depth will be the depth you cut.

Wood Tips: Routers - Plunge vs Fixed Based Router

How deep can a plunge router go?

Plunge depth

Plunge depths vary between models, it can range from 2 to 3.5 inches. It must be remembered that the plunge depth may not be a realistic working depth below the bottom of the base plate.

Can you mount any router to a table?

Can you mount any router to a table? Almost any fixed base or plunge router can be mounted to a router table by drilling holes in the router table insert. While this excludes the compact routers like a trim router, this flexibility allows for older routers to be mounted in a table.

Can you attach a plunge router to a router table?

Yes, it's okay to use a plunge router in a router table, but some work better than others. Safety practices might vary depending on the type of mechanism your setup uses for the router lift, but generally speaking, using a plunge router in a router table is just as safe as using a fixed-base router.

Is a cordless router worth it?

If you own a router and are considering a second, I recommend a cordless. Light edge profiles make up most of my routing, so a compact is perfect for me, and cordless is even more appealing. I grab my full-size corded router only for heavier jobs. Compact cordless routers are also a good choice for a first router.

Can you use a router on stone?

Woodworking router bits are designed specifically to cut wood. They will burn up pretty rapidly if used for stone cutting. There are over 5,000 carbide grades available and probably about that many different ways to make a router bit.

Can I use a laminate trimmer as a router?

A modern laminate trimmer can perform almost any task that a larger handheld router can do, with the caveat that the smaller machine may be limited in the size of bit that can physically fit within its collet and the base plate.

How do I choose a router for woodworking?

Is a wood router worth it?

It's a great power tool to own because it is portable and can be used for a range of cutting, trimming, and shaping tasks on wood, plastic, metal, and laminates. Indeed, many woodworkers consider the router to be the single most versatile woodworking power tool in their arsenal.

What can I use a cordless router for?

Do I need a trim router?

Cutting thin, flush inlays requires small cuts and precision, which makes the trim router the perfect tool for this job. Inlays require a shallow excavation to seat them flush with the surrounding wood. You can get the job done with other routers too, but a trim router is my first choice.

Whats a compact router do?

A compact router can cut a decorative edge, make a profile for concealed woodworking joints, or straighten the crooked edge on a piece of lumber.

Do you really need a router table?

Do You Need a Router Table to Use a Router? No, a handheld router can be used without a router table. But there are times when it's quicker, easier and safer to use a router table. A router table can be safer to use than a handheld router because it gives us better control over workpieces.

Can you use a wood router upside down?

Turn it Upside Down

Mounting your router upside down in a router table greatly expands the tool's capabilities, making routing easier and safer. With the tool held securely in place, you can use both hands to safely feed the stock into the bit.

Do all routers fit all router tables?

Always check that your router will fit a particular router table. Sometimes "universal" inserts are not truly universal! A good router table allows you to work quickly and accurately on a tremendous range of woodworking tasks, and it can turn your workshop into a high-capacity, precision machining center.

Do I need an insert plate for router table?

A router plate is a convenience. Not a necessity. It provides a means to remove the router from the table for such things as bit changes. If one has a router that can be left in the table (i.e. a dedicated router) and has a router lift that allows raising the router to change bits, then the plate is not necessary.

How much horsepower does a router need?

Power ranges from the basic router at around 1 HP to more powerful models with up to 3.5 HP. If your routing needs are simple edging tasks, a lower horsepower will suffice.