Hey everyone! I'm working on a camper van and need a small, inexpensive router just for a couple of months. Most of my work will involve softening or rounding corners on pine and plywood, and I also need to use a flush trim bit for some laminate. I previously tried using my Black & Decker 6-tool kit, but it was really wobbly and didn't perform well at all. I'm trying to avoid spending too much since it's short-term, but I want something that has decent RPMs to handle soft woods. I also prefer to use 1/4-inch bits as I already have a router bit set. If anyone has recommendations, even for a Dremel, I'm all ears!
5 Answers
Check out Harbor Freight for great budget options! They have some routers that are perfect for light jobs like yours.
Honestly, just look at your local pawn shop. You can often find tools for a fraction of the price!
I’d recommend the DWP611PK from Amazon. It’s effective, and you can return it within 30 days if it doesn’t meet your needs. Just keep an eye on the return window!
Ah, I've been terrible at keeping track of return windows lately! But I plan to have a yard sale after this build, so hopefully, I can recuperate some costs.
Have you checked your local Habitat Restore? You might find a router there for around $20!
I looked there yesterday, but no luck. I did score a B&D leaf blower for $12! So not a total loss.
You can't go wrong with any corded palm router for your needs! Bosch routers are solid, though they might not be the cheapest option out there. You'll find that most budget palm routers should perform just fine for softwoods like pine.
Thanks for that tip! I was worried the cheaper ones might not have enough power.
I love Harbor Freight too! Just learned the hard way that I should always double-check what else I might need, though!