How to Buy a Router Table
Introduction
Router Tables for DIYers Table
| Benefit | Reason |
|---|---|
| Versatile | Router tables provide a range of versatility, making them an excellent choice for those looking to create different shapes and size cuts. |
| | Precise | With precision levels and additional accessories, router tables make it easier to produce more refined and detailed cuts.
| | Maneuverable | Router tables are typically mounted to a stand, giving DIYers a more portable and maneuverable option.
| | Easy Set Up | Router tables come with pre-assembled components and require minimal set up, making them easy to use, even for DIY beginners.
| | Affordable | Router tables are budget-friendly solutions for those looking to get started in woodworking, without spending large amounts of money.
|
Defining the Router Table
A router table is an essential tool for anyone who does woodworking projects.
It is a flat surface with a router mounted to the underside that can be used to shape and finish wood.
The router is guided by fences, stops, and clamps on the router table.
The router can be fitted with router bits that can create many different profiles and shapes on wood.
Router tables also have a dust collection port which helps collect the dust and shavings that are created when wood is routed.
Router tables are an invaluable tool for any woodworker.
Our Goal
Our goal is to help you choose the right router table for your home DIY projects.
A router table can make all the difference in the quality of your work - from precise routings and shape-making to strong, solid joinery.
With the right router table you can do most of the jobs around the house yourself – from making furniture and cabinetry to creating window frames and other decorative details.
With the right tools and knowledge, you can do these projects quickly and effortlessly.
What Sets Router Tables Apart
Advantages
When thinking about the advantages of a router table, it’s easy to see the difference compared to using other tools.
With a router table, you can make more accurate cuts, and you can make cuts much faster.
You can also make perfect dados and grooves in your material, which is something other tools can’t do as easily.
Router tables are also great for making curved cuts in your material.
As an added bonus, you can often make repeatable cuts, or use templates to do any kind of cut that you need.
In the end, owning a router table makes your projects much faster and easier to complete.
How Router Tables Work
Router tables are machines made up of a base and flat top, with a motorised router that slides along in a groove.
Router tables are used to cut a variety of materials, including wood, metal and plastic.
The machines work by rotating a spindle, with a cutting tool attached, at a high speed.
The tool moves along the grooves, guiding the material to be worked with precision.
The rotating blades provide power that is used to trim, shape, and make intricate cuts.
The spindle speed is adjustable, allowing the user to adjust the depth of the cuts and the speed at which they are performed.
By manipulating the grooves and the speed of the spindle, router tables create precise shapes, patterns, and intricate designs in any material.
Features to Look For
When searching for the best router table for your projects, there are certain features you should look for.
Durability is key; make sure the table is constructed of solid, long-lasting materials.
Look for features like a 2” dust port to help keep the workspace clean and an adjustable fence for accuracy and repeatability.
Your table should have robust routing capabilities, so look for a range of router bits and an operating speed up to 10,000 RPM.
Pay attention to the table configuration as well.
Is there enough room for plates and accessories? Is it easy to switch out the bits? Is there a strong motor to power the table? Consider all of your needs and pick a router table that has the features you need for the best performance.
When to Use a Router Table
Common Applications
Using a router table can be very useful for certain jobs.
It is often used for cutting organization slots, creating dadoes and rabbets, and making accurate cuts with a jig.
It can also be used to shape edges, create decorative patterns, and make joints.
A router table can also be used for edge sanding, joinery, and making curved and angled cuts.
Using a rounded bit on a router table can be valuable for making attractive edges.
In addition, you can use router tables to make precise designs or patterns, as well as cutting rounded corners.
Router tables can be very versatile tools for a variety of home and professional woodworking applications.
Router Tables In Your Workshop
Router tables are a great addition to any home workshop and can help you complete any tasks quickly and efficiently.
With a router table, you can recreate any precise cuts that would otherwise have taken hours to do by hand.
Plus, you don’t have to worry about making a mistake since your cuts will be spot-on.
Router tables can be used in tandem with other tools like table saws and planers, allowing you to perform separate tasks in a fraction of the time it would take to do them on their own.
And by expanding your toolset, you can amp up the versatility of your workshop.
With the right router table, your hands can take a break while your tools do the work.
Techniques and Tips
When using a router table, there are a few tips and tricks to help you get the most out of it.
Make sure to measure twice before cutting, to avoid costly errors.
When you place your wood in the router table, be sure to secure it in place to help ensure steady cuts.
Pay attention to the speed of the router – too fast and the wood may burn, but too slow can leave misaligned cuts.
When routing edges, keep the bit level to the table for the best results.
Take your time, and be patient – accuracy is key!
What To Look For In A Router Table
Router Table Options
Router tables come in all shapes and sizes.
They are great for a variety of tasks, like shaping, profile-making, and dadoing.
To get the most out of your router table, think about how you’ll be using it.
Do you need a table which has built-in safety features? Or do you need one with a flat surface? Do you want something which can be easily adjusted to handle different sizes of projects? Whatever your needs, there’s a router table which can meet them.
Special accessories like miter gauges and feather-boards help make projects easier and safer.
Be sure to look at all the router table options available before choosing one.
Choosing the Right Router Table
When looking for a router table, it’s important to think about the size of your workspace.
Are you limited for space, or do you need a wider table to achieve the cuts you’re hoping to make? Also consider the size and weight of the table itself.
Is it lightweight enough to move away when it isn’t in use?
The material of the table is important too.
Does it have a composite top instead of a metal top? Composite tops offer greater stability and strength.
And if it isn’t an enclosed design, consider the dust collection options.
Does it have a port for attaching a vacuum hose?
Think about any bonus accessories you want to include.
For instance, does the table come with attachments for a router lift or fence stops? Finally, consider the height.
Most router tables are adjustable, but is the height accurately set to the size of your router?
Brand Reliability
When buying a router table, it’s important to get one that is reliable.
To find a quality product, look for well-known and trusted brands like Bosch, Skil, Ridgid, Dewalt, and Makita.
Not only do these companies make durable and long-lasting tools, they also offer great customer service to back up their products.
Plus, you’ll find plenty of parts, attachments, and accessories for most models.
Another good option is Craftsman, which offers affordably priced router tables backed by a one-year warranty.
So when it comes to brand reliability, these companies have you covered!
Safety Measures and Precautions
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting router tables can be tricky.
If your router table doesn’t seem to be working properly, here are what to look for.
First, check your power source.
Make sure the router table is plugged in and getting electricity.
Next, check the blade.
If it’s dull or rusty, replace it with a new one.
Finally, check for any loose bolts or screws on the router table.
Make sure everything is tightened and secure.
If none of these solutions work, it might be time to call a professional.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Maintaining a router table is not hard, but it’s important.
Start by dusting your router table surface on a regular basis with a soft cloth.
To prevent any rust buildup, use a damp cloth to wipe down the surface after each use.
Also make sure to check for any bolts and screws that have become loose.
Tighten them as needed.
Check the router motor’s alignment and level every few months and adjust accordingly for better performance.
Clean out all the slots and crevices to remove particles and sawdust buildup.
This will keep the router table functioning smoothly and minimize risks of potential hazards.
Your router table should be inspected and serviced on a regular schedule, usually once a year.
Staying Safe
When using a router table, it is essential to safety.
To avoid injury, always wear safety glasses to protect your face and eyes from flying debris, and make sure finger guards, push blocks, and feather boards are all in place.
Make sure to double check that the router table is securely clamped down before starting your work.
Always unplug the router table before making any adjustments to it.
When cutting wood, never force the wood and instead allow the router to do the work.
Make sure the work piece is firmly clamped down and clear of any clamps and other obstructions.
Finally, be sure to never stand too close to the router table while it is running.
Conclusion
Buying Your Router Table
When it comes to buying a router table, DIY enthusiasts should take into account a few key factors.
First, consider if your set up will require a stationary router table or a free-standing one.
Second, think about the size and space you have to work with and the size of table needed.
Third, look into the features and any additional add-ons you may need to make your routers and router bits work properly.
Finally, determine your budget and how much you’re willing to spend.
By taking these factors into account, you should have no problem finding the right router table for your needs.
