The Best Budget Router and Router Table for Woodworking
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- Опубликовано: 18 окт 2024
- I went on a mission to find a great router and router table combo for those on a budget or beginner woodworkers. This Skil Router and Router Table set up is a great choice for a beginner!
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*Tools in this Video:
Skil Router Table Combo - amzn.to/43TRjvm
DeWALT Plunge and Fixed Base Router - amzn.to/3Nv5EcA
Bench Cookies - amzn.to/3X4M3TJ
Whiteside 4 Pack Router Bit Set - amzn.to/43FfONm
Whiteside Roundover Bit - amzn.to/441nCca
Whiteside Chamfer Bit - amzn.to/3CvV3YC
MIcrojig Push Blocks - amzn.to/3CvOTYe
Double Stick Tape - amzn.to/42O5Ub6
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Tools in this Video:
Skil Router Table Combo - amzn.to/43TRjvm
DeWALT Plunge and Fixed Base Router - amzn.to/3Nv5EcA
Bench Cookies - amzn.to/3X4M3TJ
Whiteside 4 Pack Router Bit Set - amzn.to/43FfONm
Whiteside Roundover Bit - amzn.to/441nCca
Whiteside Chamfer Bit - amzn.to/3CvV3YC
MIcrojig Push Blocks - amzn.to/3CvOTYe
Double Stick Tape - amzn.to/42O5Ub6
Baseball Tray - www.731woodworks.com/store/walnut-guitar-catch-all-tray-fender-telecaster-catch-tray-4ber9
DIY Router Table Plans - www.731woodworks.com/store/routertableplans
Follow Scruffy Santa - instagram.com/scruffysanta/
Router Bit Organizing Tray - www.731woodworks.com/store/router-bit-organizing-tray-walnut
Baseball Catch All Tray - www.731woodworks.com/store/walnut-guitar-catch-all-tray-fender-telecaster-catch-tray-4ber9
Guitar Catch-All Tray - www.731woodworks.com/store/walnut-guitar-catch-all-tray-fender-telecaster-catch-tray
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What about the CRT/MK3 ?
If this has unreliable fence, how can one buy an off the shelf better fence that can fit into this ?
I would for sure like a "how to use a router" video!!! That tool scares me more than any other tool in my shop.
It's done. Will be up within a week!
@@731Woodworks awesome thanks! Been hoping for one
Thanks for upcoming video! I'm comfortable with everything in my shop ... except a handheld router.
@@731Woodworks can't hardly wait to see that video Matt!
It would be good to see your take on it. I have a 3 hp and a trimmer I’ve used for years and years, but I’ve never done anything with large bits. Round overs, pattern cutting, straight bits for dados is fine, but those large bits for profiling crown molding and recessed panels etc scare the hell out of me.
My GF, now wife, bought this router table for me last summer and I LOVE it. The fence is absolutely the week spot and after watching your video it is now on my to-do list... after making a stand with drawers for it to sit on. This is a great deal for us newbies with limited space and $$. Thanks for the great overview and helpful comments .Larry
The weak fence is the only thing keeping
me from this router, all I need currently is
perfect, straight cuts, my plunge router is not
working out for me, and the fence on this
one is the weak link. I have a skil sliding ,
dual-bevel, miter saw, so far it is
100% perfect.
@@bikersoncall I added a 1/4 x 1 1/2" x 8" acrylic fence to the metal fence that comes with the router and it works great.
@@EEEZSolutionS
Thanks much, I may get this then.
You basically reinforced the
somewhat flimsy oem fence, by
adding material to it, shoring it up.
You didn't have to fabricate some
kind of 'stop' to solve it.
I assume you added this
to the backside of that fence. 😎👍
@@bikersoncall Not sure I understand what you mean by a stop.... The acrylic add-on creates a longer and more stable edge for the router and makes it so much easier to keep dado, etc. straight. Give me an email and I'll send you a pic. I'll put this router up against just about any out there including DeWalt and Bosch. Just to be clear my model is the RT1322, 2 1/2 HP and it came with fixed and plunge base.... both of which work well.
Your review is spot on! I never thought of building my own fence and I will be adding that to my list of "To Do's" Been super happy with mine.
Thanks for helping me out with this one Scruffy! 👊
Yeah, same as you... never thought of building my own fence but it would make a this little tool even better.
I have this same setup and I mounted it between the right side rails on my Delta 36-725T2 table saw. It saves a lot of space in my small shop and I like the stability of having it permanently mounted. I use it for everything from edge profiles to cutting out several templates for two Rockler modern outdoor chairs I built. Overall, for the price, it can't be beat.
I have this router (with the fixed base and plunge base) and I have this table. I use it for exactly what you said-cutting out patterns and simple edge profiles-and it works amazingly well. Honestly, couldn’t be happier for what I use it to accomplish.
I will be adding mine to a flip-top base in the near future.
Any idea what the dimensions of the top are? Been looking for a cheap benchtop table to fit in to one of the wings.
Where did you get a plunge base? Skil says they don't make one that fits it
@@erikmullen4421 Now, to be clear, to use the table, you do have to use the fixed base. Also, I haven’t seen just the plunge base for sale. I purchased my table separate from the router in order to get both bases.
I did pick up this table and router on a great sale last week. I am a beginner (with small detailed work) and had purchased a really nice Bosch set, fixed with plunge attachment in a case from a big store but did not have a table. When looking for a little table for starters this set came up for sale at almost the same price for just the table so I grabbed it (I think $140). I figured how easy to just have a router fixed and not switch out and I loved it held the attachments and tools. Thanks for pointing out how they fit inside. Although the Bosch is much heavier, I might make that the fixed? I have no idea what I am doing but intend to create or modify a cart for this table so I can roll it around and use it for small projects and crafts. First thing is creating a window shelf that I removed when I was painting a room. I always say it's a small project and then build some ridiculous stuff, just ask my chickens how their Fluffy Butt Saloon (large enough for a guest room) is with automatic doors, heater and convertible windows for Window or summer and club house in their chicken run area. I am Currently playing with epoxy resin and think this could be handy. I enjoy all of your videos on the different brands. It is very helpful.
I was given the table and router for my birthday. I have limited space and got another miter saw stand just like the one I already had. So now I just put it on that stand when I'm using it.
Would love a how to properly use a router, fixed and plunge, and router table video. That would be awesome!
Hey Matt! I ordered one from woodcraft thinking it would look just like this. But on mine their is a screen you can set the rpm or you can pick what but your using and if it’s a hardwood or softwood and it will pick the speed for you. Other than that it’s about the same.
Yes, please do a beginner video for routers. Thank you!
It’s on the channel now. ruclips.net/video/xLxCEBb-74s/видео.htmlsi=OZdfU73qbSMFXHDM
I just bought this combo. I was similarly dis appointed with performance as a joiner. I assumed it was lack of experience on my part. Perhaps it's time to take a look at hacking my table saw (same brand) for joining.
Ha! I ordered this combo from Lowe’s and it arrived today. Looking for how-to videos so I don’t have to pull out the manual yet lol
The one feature I need in an
inexpensive router-table is
being able to do accurate,
no hassle, straight cuts, can you
recommend a table/router combo
or just table that does that really well?
I don't need industrial strength, something
in this 'skil' category would be perfect.
Great, honest video. I like the fact that the flaws are pointed out as well. Who doesn't love the smell of new tools.
can you make a video on how to make a fence for this router table? I don't know to make a fence to use for jointing. I bought this table because of your recommendation and I think a video on making a fence would be great! Thank You
Great video Matt. I think you're spot on with the pros and cons. I'm a beginner with limited space. I've had this combo set for about a year and a half. I use it a lot for coasters, cutting boards, etc. I've notice this spring that the plastic fence is severely warped. I'm going to take your advice and watch a video and build me a new fence. Thanks for all the good videos. 👊🏽
Glad it was helpful!
When Sears died, I bought a 12A router kit from them...both plunge and fixed base. It is the spitting image of this Skil, although neither Sears or Skil will confirm or deny. I have about 100 hrs on the router and I must say I was/am pleasantly surprised. Good power, soft start, power indicator, variable speed...all features found on many of the "good" routers at a budget price. It accepts the universal template guides (formerly known as PC) and it just feels good in my hands.
Now, the router is my favorite tool, and the 2d "stationary" tool I would recommend for any sawdust manufacturer behind the table saw. I have owned several brands of routers, and used several other brands extensively. I am comfortable in saying very few folk would be disappointed with purchasing this Skil unit. I currently own two Bosch 1617VS, the afore- mentioned Craftsman (Skil...tell me it's not), a PC 690, a Makita cordless trim and a Makita corded trim. So I feel like I can say with surety that the Skil is a very good choice for an entry level unit, or as a second unit as you advance in skills and needs.
I do not own, nor have I ever used the Skil table. I build my own tables to my specific wants and needs, and while not as fancy as Matt's, they serve my purpose well.
I cannot stress enough Matt's suggestion about quality bits. Bits make the actual cut or profile, not the router. Please don't get caught up in the 15pc $25 sets you see on Amazon. All they will do is bring you heartache and grief...and the likely ruination of your project. At the very minimum, buy bits from Diablo or Rockler. Better yet, Amana or Whiteside. I know. The best bits are dang expensive. So was that piece of cherry that got burned beyond recognition by that cheap bit. Just sayin'
Thanks for the review Matt! I recently got that Skil router and mounted it in a home made router table. It is plenty powerful enough for almost all my 1/2" shank bits. I leave it set-up with a pattern bit for use with templates for my charcuterie boards. That leaves my primary router table free for different profile bits. So now I can complete two milling steps without changing bits so I can batch out boards quickly
New to routing, so any tips appreciated. Keep up the good work. 👍
Thanks, will do!
It seems like not long ago you could buy the Bosch router/table combo for $199, and now it closer to $500! And now a Skill combo is $200? Prices are ridiculous. It’s sad how expensive this hobby has become. Great review Matt. Looks like a decent setup with a good sized table.
Thank you so much for doing this video! I've been eyeing the Skil router combo for awhile now and I think this just might be the deciding factor that gets me to pull the trigger
Hey, compelling argument for a fairly complete entry level router system.. I am in the market for a small router table and this may be a great choice. Have you ever tested the Bosch RA 1141 with the folding legs, i have a small space and the foldability is also interesting, Just dont know if would be a little too wonky. Great content
I bought this just over a year ago - absolutely worth every penny. Can't recommend it enough. Only complaint is that it's 26", not 27" like most of the rest of the tables - meaning if you want to add it to your table saw wing , you'll need to make some mild modifications. I added the Rockler Dust Right blue dust collection bin thing under this with some mild modifications as well. Works amazing!
I watched for these SKIL routers to go on sale due to the excellent reviews I have seen. They are a great bang for the buck router. I also have the DeWalt Routers and the Bosch routers which are great but a bit more expensive. I have two of these which are dedicated for one purpose: to make the Micro jig dove tail clamp slots. One router for the straight bit, and the second router for the dovetail bit. That way I don't have to change bits in a single router and when the first cut is made, I switch the next router and make the second cut. Works out really well and saves a ton of time. Great review of both the router and table.
Have one already, thinking of a second for permanent bits to make sliding dovetail joints instead of having to change fence locations. Would love a video on router use as I'm hoping to get real busy soon.
We have the skil router except we have the one with the screen on top for speed settings and have been relly impressed with it.
So…. I have 2 of these ganged together back to back with a Y pipe for dust collection. Both mounted on a single rigid stand that I can wheel around the shop. Works well for setups that require 2 bits like tongue and groove so ones it’s set up you just do both parts with no tear down needed.
Oh, I purchased this router table and I can confirm that the left side does give and it gives you inconsistent edge jointing. other than that it works just fine
I purchased just the router and it comes with both bases. It works very good I used for flattening with a 2 inch bit. I like the settings for the different bits you use and sets the RPM's.
Do you think this set up would be fine for making jewelry boxes that have hidden compartments. The longest dimension would be 6 to 8 inches long, 4 inch wide, using 3/8 inch stock. The tongue and grooves are typically 1/8 inch. With an occasional chamfered or beveled edge. The joinery needs to be tight so that the hidden interlocking pieces slide smoothly. Would the sloppy fence be an issue with pieces shorter than 8 inches? Cheers, sincerely, octogenarian Ray.😊
For that intricate of work, I might would look at a better set up. Possilby the Bosch, Kreg, JessEm, etc.
I decided to go buy once cry once. I got the full Incra setup and it was not cheep. I had to save up several months to get it. I have the Incra wonder fence which works very well as a jointer. However, it takes a little time to get it setup correctly. Pros- well made, lots of adjustments. Cons- expensive. Stay awesome.
Nice!
I bought this and am a beginner in a single car garage it works great for what I need never had a problem with the fence
Thanks.
I picked up this table and router back in May for $127 when you posted the deal. Set up was as easy as you said and I’m pretty darn happy with it as a beginner router with almost no decent work space right now. I’ve used it to put a lap joint on cedar boards to fabricate a replacement barn window door on my family’s old 1900 rock barn. It worked just just fine. Yes the fence took a little fussing but for the price I can’t be mad. Thanks for the review! It gave me some other ideas and yes, I would watch a router how to video if you make it.
Would you be able to test the kolbalt router and table combo. On sale $139 usually cost I think$179.
I'm looking into a small unit like this one, and like you've mentioned, others have commented on that weak fence. What would be your suggestions to improve this? I ask because I wouldn't know where to start. Thanks Matt!
The Dewalts are great, because they are very similar to the gold standard Porter Cable routers. The adjustment on the PC 680 is better than anything currently on the market other than the Dewalt which is a copy
I have that table/router, it is excellent for entry level amateurs like me, coupled with quality bits it will do everything I need, I built an oak KS bed using it and will make kitchen cabinets with it, also bought a second router so one can be left in the table. I also go a dust kit for it that works great.
I just got recommended to this video and I'm considering if I want to pick something like this up. Do you think there may be any potential deals cropping to for this any time soon?
Yep, these go on deal quite often. Keep an eye on my deals page on my website 731woodworks.com
Well done video!
Glad you enjoyed it
Good to know about the fence… Thanks as always for the honest review Matt!
You bet!
I purchased this Skill router and table about 4 weeks ago for $66 on sale. Overall it is great, the one exception for me is 1. the measure marks are already wearing thin and 2. the fence is a bit suspect for staying in place so i just put some F-Clamps behind it once set. The other thing I do not care for is the two plastic storage areas - they just collect a ton of dust and are a paint o clean due to the molding grid structure. The routing aspect is fantastic! mine came with a plunge base as well.
Where did you find this set for only $66?! thats an amazing amazing deal!
I would LOVE a video on proper router setup and use for trim, plunge, and table routers. I've done pretty well so far not turning any fingers into hamburger, but I have had issues with rough cuts, chatter, etc.
Since Skil was bought out by Chervon it has been steadily increasing in quality. I have an older version of this table and quickly upgraded. I see they have fixed many of the things that I didn't like about the version I have. I now use the Kobalt set sold at Lowe's for the same or slightly lower price point and probably also made by Chervon. It has better dust collection and an aluminum table top that could be inserted into a workbench pretty easily. I think the new Skil router has a few more features though. I would love to see a side by side of the latest version of each.
Would this be a good combo for doing box miter joints for custom speaker cabinets and small boxes?
I love my Skil router... I use this router all the time.
Great video as always!
I appreciate that
I recently bought this and the skil 1322. Is it just me or is the dust collection adapter for the router itself next to impossible to connect a hose to for the power swiitch input being in the way?
Great video Matt. Thanks. I use a 2 1/4 hp router in my router table and I've been happy with it.
I like the LED light! I tend to lean over the router. Most of the time with my light source behind me!!
I would most certainly LOVE a how to video on a router! 😀
This vs Harbor Freight’s clearance one. Go! Lol
I bought the next level up Skil router with the additional plunge base and electronic speed control. It also handles either 1/4" or 1/2" shanks. I'm likewise impressed. In time, I'm planning to build one of Stumpy Nubs' router lift boxes and mount it under the router table extension on my Grizzly table saw.
I have not fact checked this,but that Skil router looks exactly like my Porter Cable 890 router. I believe the 890 is no longer being made and I think Skil and Porter Cable are owned by the same parent company. It could be a rebadged 890 which were great routers in their day, but even better at that price point. Great video thank you.
I have a Skil 2 HP and when it snatched the wood from me, now I'm scared. I am a very new beginner. What do I really need? It's mounted in a Craftsman table. Had both for about ten years but just put it all together to use.
I have the skil router with the digital read out on top, and that table. I’ve been pretty happy with both. Totally agree about the fence.
Very nice!
Did you do the video on what not to do yet?
I own the same one. The worst thing about it is the pin that locks the router to the housing and allows the router to move up and down is made out of cheap plastic. It was only a matter of time for it to fail. Why SKIL would design and place a plastic pin at a major stress point is beyond me. Now I have to figure out where to get another one so i can make fine adjustments to the router.
Good option for the limited space shop or starting out woodworker thank you for sharing
I have that skil router as well. But I can't find a base for it with a larger diameter for larger bits. Any ideas?
Sounds like if the the fence and the miter gauge were improved it is a great setup. Man Skil dropped so far and is now working its way back up. Nice when that happens
Matt I do not have grip in my right hand and 40lbs in my left, would a smaller handheld router be better than one on a router table? I only work on small jobs.
Thanks
Randy Wallis
Probably so Mr. Randy. However, the bigger routers like this do have bigger handles on each side.
Would you buy this and complement it with the Dewalt finishing router (likely cordless)? Or is that overkill?
It would definately be great to have this and another router so you didn't have to constantly take it in and out of the table.
See you in Nashville 👊🏻
Can't wait!
Joining in as I have that same router. Great machine for DYI and even semi-pro I'd say, providing one keeps its usage within limits. Flattening a countertop with a big 2.5" bit for hours on end will kill it. This would kill most routers on the market though.
SKIL is really coming through. Matt likes this budget router/table combo & their compact table saw. I have their 10" SCMS, which is the equal of saws three times as costly.
Where did you buy the combo? I can’t seem to find it
heck ya i have the digital variable speed version of this router its an awesome tool and has served me well so far, i plan on getting this same table combo as well 👍👍
When removing fence could you build a boom arm for dust collection?
I bought the Kobalt version. I wish it was variable speed. The fence has the same issues as the Skill. I do plan on using it to built a better router table, I'm confident it'll help me tremendously with that project.
Man we must be on the same page, I was just reading about this table this morning before I saw your video. Thanks for putting this together!
Glad it was helpful!
I personally have this router and it is an absolute beast
I wonder if you could clamp the boards for joining
I would love to see a video on the proper way to use the router. I am a beginner beginner and i love watching your informative videos.
You got it!
How genuinely happy you were when it soft start... 😂
I watch a lot of your videos and please take note.
At the end of the video when the graphics pop up for other videos could you keep those there just a little bit longer. I keep having to go back and replay the end of the video to catch the links.
What brands of bushing guide fit a skil router
Does this router play well with Router Template Guides ?
Love the shirt!!
Great video, got the same setup great for small projects!
would this work for making book shelves with rabbet cut for the side panels?? bookshelves are going to be approximately 7 ft tall
yes, it's a nice router and would work for that.
Yes would love router how to's and donts
I just want you to compare this to the kobalt router table
Great video
Thanks David!
I’ve barely used mine so far, but LOVE my skil router table
This video couldnt have came at a better time. Looking fir a table right now for building my first grandsons crib. I wanna put raised panels in the head and foot board. So I would absolutely like ro see a router table instructioal video. A video on raised panel doors to go with it would be great too. Lol for sure.
Can you put any router on a router table?
Has anyone done something with the fence to improve jointing?
I am jealous. Under 200 usd, cheap. Can't find that in Denmark, on amazon can see it's around 385 usd, really ? why so much ? (they won't send to dk anyway)
Yes! I would like a video on how to use a router. That would be greatly appreciated.
1/4" shank only? Or can it handle 1/2" shank bits as well?
It has both, collet adapter for 1/4”, main collet is for 1/2”
Yes, it can do both 1/4 and 1/2" bits.
9:00 thats a stellar deal
Matt, you must be looking at my Amazon shopping history. I just received this set on Friday and haven't had the chance to even get it out of the box yet. I loved the video and I might need to look into making a different fence for it, thanks for the tip. I have plans for this weekend to use this router while I build an outdoor glider bench.
Hope you enjoy it!
Yooo I just ordered one of these with Bits!!!!
I have this as well, a gift from my brother. Built some cabinet doors for bathroom renovation. Would be nice to have a seperate base so you wouldn't have to disassemble it to use it by hand.Otherwise i like it
@731 Woodworks, maybe I missed it, but if you have a video or link to a replacement fence for this table or would make a video on implementing one yourself to share.., that would prove very useful.. thanks I did see the link to build a router table, but seems easier to try and upgrade the fence. Good video...as always
It is a lot better than there 1.0 table that I got. For 80 plus $. and no Router. just the under mount looks 1000% better. I am guessing mine is about 4/5 yr old now. My have to look into this new one!!
You was using a starting pin but you was feeding the wrong way 😂 beside the fast speed.
We all make mistakes that is why it will be safe to use push blocks at all times because an injury is no joke when the material surprises you by pulling your hands towards the cutter. 😮😢
Yes, please do a video on how to use a router with variable speeds and different bits and why.