How to Buy a Benchtop Router Table
Introduction
Benchtop Router Tables for DIYers Table
A benchtop router table is perfect for every home DIYer.
Not only does it provide a flat, secure surface to work with, but it also allows for precise depth adjustments and sharp, controlled cuts.
Here are the basics of why the DIYer should own one:
| Benefits | Description |
|---|---|
| Versatile | A benchtop router can accommodate a variety of tools. |
| | Precise | It allows for precise depth adjustments and sharp cuts.
| | Secure | Provides a flat, secure surface to work on.
| | Affordable | Variety of price points makes them accessible to all.
|
Defining the Benchtop Router Table
A benchtop router table is a tool used by woodworkers and DIYers to create intricate projects.
It is similar to a regular router in shape and size, but has a significantly larger working surface.
It has a base that rests on a table or other surface, and features a dust collector, variable speed controls, and precision accessories.
This makes it easier to control the depth of the cuts and shape intricate, detailed pieces.
It’s a great addition to any workshops, from a hobbyist to a professional woodworker.
Our Goal
At Home Improvement Tools, our goal is to help you find the best benchtop router table for your DIY projects.
We want to make sure you understand what you need to think about when looking for the right router table, so you can have a successful DIY experience.
Whether you’re building furniture, adding unique finishing touches or making precise cuts, a quality router table will help you get the most out of your project.
A well-chosen router table can make many tasks easier, faster, and more precise.
That’s why it’s important to buy the right router table for your DIY projects.
We’re here to help you find the best one to suit your needs.
What Sets Benchtop Router Tables Apart
Advantages
Benchtop router tables have some great advantages.
They’re small and lightweight, so they are easy to move and don’t take up a lot of space.
Plus, they’re usually less expensive than a full-sized router table.
And they come with features like Integrated Dust Collection Ports and replaceable tables that make them extremely versatile.
They also come with many adjustable settings for different sizes of router bits.
Plus, they’re simple to put together and don’t require any complicated setup.
This makes them a great choice for those who don’t have a lot of router table experience.
How Benchtop Router Tables Work
Benchtop router tables are very simple to use.
They are designed with an adjustable fence at the front and a router at the back.
You attach your wood to the router table and use the adjustable fence to guide it across the spinning bit of the router for a neat, precise cut.
The spinning router bit can move up and down to change the depth of the cut.
A dust collection system is built in to keep your workspace clean.
Router tables are great for making curved cuts or detailed cuts, as they are extremely precise.
Features to Look For
When shopping for a benchtop router table, look for features like a rigid steel or aluminum base, adjustable fence, depth stop, adjustable height, and dust collection port.
A router table with these features will ensure that you can easily make precision cuts.
Some models may also feature a fence scale, sacrificial fence, or replaceable insert plates.
Pick one with a dust port that fits your shop vacuum for convenient cleanup.
The heavier the table, the more stability it will have when working with wood.
Look at the size and maximum router capacity to make sure it fits your needs.
When you find a benchtop router table that includes these features, you have found one that can help you work safely and achieve professional-grade results.
When to Use a Benchtop Router Table
Common Applications
Benchtop router tables are often used for many different applications in woodworking.
This versatile tool is great for creating edge profiles, cutting dovetail joints, dados, and rabbet joints with pattern templates, raising panels on doors, and even routing lettering in signs or laminate.
It’s also great for chamfering, trimming, beading, and mortising.
Whether you’re building furniture or cabinetry, a benchtop router table can help with many of the functions you require to complete a project.
Furthermore, using a router table can help to speed up many of these processes, allowing woodworkers to use their time more efficiently.
Benchtop Router Tables In Your Workshop
A benchtop router table is a great addition for any home workshop.
Not only is it small and easy to store, but it can help you take on many tasks that you wouldn’t be able to with just other tools.
With a benchtop router table, you can make precise and accurate cuts that will make your projects look better and last longer.
Plus, you can use it with your other power tools like jigsaws, sanders, and drill/drivers.
And if you need to make a mortise for a door lock, a benchtop router table is the perfect tool! There are countless other uses for this handy tool, so when it comes to your home workshop, make sure you get a benchtop router table!
Techniques and Tips
When using a benchtop router table, remember to keep your fingers away from the bit.
Always wear protective glasses, hearing protection, and a face mask to prevent breathing in dust and debris.
When changing bits, always unplug the router table before turning it over.
Make sure your hands are dry when tightening the bit.
Always do a test pass on a scrap piece of wood before making a cut on the main piece.
Make sure to only make shallow passes.
Use clamps to hold the wood steady.
Finally, make sure the router table is not close to flammable materials.
What To Look For In A Benchtop Router Table
Benchtop Router Table Options
Benchtop router tables provide the versatile tools to help you complete routing projects in a professional manner.
When selecting a benchtop router table, consider features such as the ability to adjust the router table’s height and tilt angle.
A great feature is also the inclusion of safety guards that help reduce the chance of injury while using the router table.
Another essential aspect is the size of the router table.
The larger the table surface, the more options it provides for projects you can do.
For projects which require a larger workpiece, consider ones with telescopic fences so that you can quickly adjust them for better results.
Additionally, look for dust collection systems as they help keep the work area clean.
Finally, think about the material of the router table.
Go for ones made out of sturdy and durable materials like metal or hardwood as they have the construction to make them last for many years.
Choosing the Right Benchtop Router Table
When you buy a benchtop router table, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
First, decide what kind of projects you plan to do.
If you’re doing light woodworking projects, go for a lightweight model that’s easy to move.
If you’re doing large, heavy duties, you should consider getting a heavier, sturdier model that can be bolted down.
Second, decide how much power you need.
If you’re doing smaller projects, a basic router table should do the trick.
But for bigger jobs, invest in a higher powered model.
Third, be sure to measure the space where you plan to set up the table.
You don’t want it taking up too much room.
Lastly, make sure you buy the right accessories like routers, collets, fence, and rails.
With the right benchtop router table, you’ll be well on your way to success.
Brand Reliability
When it comes to choosing a benchtop router table, it’s important to think about brand reliability.
Brands like Bosch offer a wide range of reliable, durable router tables with cutting-edge features.
DeWalt is another one of the most popular choices, with models that are lightweight and easy to move around.
Porter-Cable has great affordability and the same quality as other leading brands.
Other well-known brands, such as Craftsman and Makita, also offer router tables that are both dependable and long-lasting.
Researching reputable brands is key to making sure you have the right router table for your needs.
Safety Measures and Precautions
Troubleshooting
Benchtop router tables can experience some common problems.
When troubleshooting, it is important to ensure the power and speed settings are both correct.
If the table is making an unusual noise, the blade may have become dull or misaligned and it should be checked and possibly replaced.
If the plunge won’t move freely, the guide bushings may need to stretched or replaced.
Rust or corrosion can be easily wiped away with an oiled rag.
If the base won’t remain firm and stable, the screws may need to be replaced or tightened.
Finally, if the router bit is vibrating, the rotation speed may need to be adjusted.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Good maintenance of your router table is essential for safety and an extended lifetime of the machine.
Before every use, make sure all knobs and surfaces are properly secured.
Regularly clean your table with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
Inspect the table for worn or cracked parts and replace these quickly.
Check the router bit regularly for any nicks or burrs and replace if needed.
Double check that the bolts that secure the fence, table, and the router are correctly tightened.
Keep all tools sharp and clean for the best precision cuts.
Frequently lubricate all moving parts like the blade cutting edge and the motor drive belt.
Finally, always unplug the router table when cleaning or performing maintenance.
Staying Safe
Always be sure to wear safety glasses when working with a benchtop router table.
This will protect your eyes from wood chips, dust, and other debris that may fly into the air during operation.
Long sleeves and pant legs should be avoided to prevent loose clothing from catching onto the router bit or nearby machinery.
Hearing protection should also be worn to protect one’s ears from the loud noise of the router.
Finally, keep all loose items, such as tools and jewelry, away from the area where you are working to prevent them from falling onto the router bit or into the moving machinery.
Conclusion
Buying Your Benchtop Router Table
It’s important to remember to consider a few key pieces to purchasing your benchtop router table.
Think about your budget, the size you need and the features you want.
When you decide on these, you can decide if you want to buy a pre-made router table or create a custom-made one.
Once you have narrowed down the choices, make sure to read reviews and ask any questions you may have.
Buying the right benchtop router table will save you time and money in the long run.
So, consider your needs, research, compare, and buy your benchtop router table when you’re sure you’ve found the right one!
