Hey everyone! I'm diving into woodworking and I've got this cheap table saw that doesn't handle dado blades too well. Since I have several projects coming up that require creating dados, grooves, and rabbets, I think getting a router could be a good temporary solution. I'm a bit overwhelmed by all the options out there. I noticed there are different sizes of routers—will a single router work for edge treatments like chamfers as well as for making larger grooves? For instance, I need to create a 1/2" rabbet on a 49" board and I'd love to chamfer the edges for some flair. Any recommendations or tips would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
2 Answers
I'd definitely recommend going for the **Bosch 1617**. I originally used a dado stack, but I switched to using a router for my dados, and it works so much better! I bought the Whiteside plywood bit stack and I get much cleaner, tighter-fitting dados than I ever did with the stack. Totally worth it!
There are basically three types of routers you should know about:
1. **Laminate Trimmers**: These use a 1/4" collet. Great for specific tasks but not super versatile. Consider getting one secondhand.
2. **Full-Size Routers**: Usually around 2 horsepower with a 1/2" collet. This is the one you want for general use, so definitely make this your first purchase.
3. **Extra Heavy-Duty Routers**: These are 3+ horsepower and best reserved for specialized tasks, so buy this last.
For a good option, consider the **Dewalt 618** or the **Bosch 1617**. They're solid choices for what you’re looking to do!
Thanks a lot for breaking it down! That really helps me narrow it down.