Routers have become one of the most used tools in a workshop, possibly even more popular than a table saw. A well equiped shop will have both a plunge base and a fixed base router, it is now possible to get a combination kit where one machine has both bases. There are many different bit profiles available, probably a straight bit and a round over bit are the first ones you will need, but this depends on the type of projects you will be doing. It is much easier to work with smaller pieces if the router is mounted on a table. Generally much better results are achieved by taking several passes making a shallow cuts rather than one pass if a lot of material has to be removed.
Basic Router
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The body can be adjusted for the depth of cut by moving
it up and down in the base.
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Plunge Router
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Can be adjusted for depth of cut as the basic router,
however the bit is above the base so it can be positioned
over the material to be routed then pushed down to make the
cut.
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Combo Packages
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Combo packages offer the best of both worlds, including both types of bases. Many uses attach the fixed base to a router table plate and use the router freehand with the plunge base.
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Overhead Routers
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In 1919 oscar Onsrud and son Rudy built the first router, it was an air turbine powered machine. In 1928 they patented and over arm pin router that revolutionized woodworking factories.
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The router runs on tracks above the work, like using a hand held it is easier to see where the router is cutting.
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Machines such as the CarveWright are computer controlled to cut designs or patterns.
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| CNC Shark Routing System | | Now includes slotted MDF table as shown!
Bring the speed and precision of computer-controlled machinery to your shop with this top value CNC system! With a table measuring 15-3/4" x 31-1/2" it s ideally suited for carvings and machining operations on a large variety of signs, doors and other small projects. It boasts impressive power, speed, accuracy, and ease of use. With its robust steel and high-density poly-ethylene construction, it can take accidental impacts that would normally damage or destroy an aluminum or MDF machine. Optional Clamping Table features two hold-down slots for securing work anywhere along the length of the table. Compatible with the Bosch Colt Palm Router. Includes VCarve Pro software interface a $500 value. You supply a computer with USB port, a Bosch Colt router, and a table top (router and table top also available sold separately). You connect the USB cable to the controller box and the other end to your computer.
Visit a store near you for a live Demo! CNC Shark Routing System |  |
Router
Speeds
The larger the diameter of the cutter the faster the tips of it travel, a large bit will be travelling too fast for optium performance and safety on a router at full speed unless the RPM is slowed. If your router does not have a speed control you can use an external attachment.
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Suggested Speeds
0 - 1 inch in dia - 22,000 RPM
1 - 2 inch in dia. - 18,000 RPM
2 - 2.5 inch in dia. - 16,000 RPM
2.5 - 3.5 inch in dia. - 12,000 RPM
At 22,000 RPM the tips of a 3/4" bit travel at 49 MPH, on a 3 1/2" bit they would be travelling over 220 MPH.
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 | Router Speed Control
New and improved router speed control gives you much more range in your speeds than our previous model...Router Speed Control |
| Rockler's #1 Router Table Package | | Our introductory package is the best value on the market!
It includes your choice of standard router plate (1/4" x 8" x 11") plus our Rockler exclusive table, fence system and bit safety guard. (Legs sold separately) Rockler's #1 Router Table Package |  |
 | Mast-R-Lift Router Lift & Mounting Plate
Change bits and bit height from the top of your router table!
Adjustments are made with a drop-in speed handle. One rotation of the handle equals 1/16'', so you can make both super-fine and major adj..Mast-R-Lift Router Lift & Mounting Plate |
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