In the crafting and DIY industry, you need more than skills, talent, and creativity to turn over a job well done. What you need is the tool that perfectly caters to your application needs, no matter how wide the variation of projects you attend to. Specifically, a wood router plays a significant role in getting your project finished successfully; however, how can you choose the right one for you if hundreds of models exist today? More and more companies are starting to release wood routers, so who do you trust?
Generally, DeWalt is one of the most popular manufacturers that produce bestselling routers for novices and professionals. If you’re planning to get a unit from the brand, you’d probably want to check out our recommendation for this article: the DeWalt DW618PK 12-amp 2-1/4 HP Plunge and Fixed-Base Variable-Speed Router Kit.
Below, we’ll provide you with an in-depth review, so you can see for yourself if this wood router fits right in your workshop.
Product Overview
Prepare to tackle even the toughest wood projects with DeWalt’s DW618PKB. The unit is equipped with a powerful motor that produces enough horsepower and speed to let you use it on various applications. This wood router also boasts high precision and accuracy on each operation, which won’t fail you as you finish the job. More specific features will be discussed below!
About the Company
DeWalt is one of those brands that never get missed when you talk about the best ones that support the industry with superior-quality tools and miscellaneous products. From their starting point and up to this day, DeWalt continues to bring out highly innovative electrical power tools for enthusiasts and veteran workers. Whatever niche you’re working at, the brand somehow has something in store for you. Their product and services constantly expand to deliver convenience to its customers.
Features
Power
The DW618PKB is powered by a 12-amp motor that can pump up a maximum horsepower of 2.25; this makes it powerful enough to let you work on a wide array of working materials and projects. The unit has a Soft Start technology to help you gain and maintain control, especially during the device’s startup. With this, it would be easier for you to manage the initial torque brought by the router, allowing you to have a stronger grip on the device as it slowly builds up speed. Additionally, the feature also reduces the stress on the unit and prolongs its usage life this way.
Speed
This model from DeWalt has a motor speed that runs from 8000 to 24000 RPM, which lets you use the tool with different types and sizes of bits on a large variety of work materials. The DW618PKB features a variable speed setting supported with full feedback control to help you work on a piece that requires a certain speed at a constant rate. Use the dial that the unit comes with to sustain a certain speed for the best project results.
Ergonomics
When it comes to ease of use, this unit provides you with the features you need for such a convenient operation. The DW618PKB has rubber-molded handles on either of the tool’s side, which are angled close to the control point; the texture and positioning of the handles make it easy for you to have a good grip and control over the router. With these, you won’t have to worry about wearing gloves top avoid having your hands slip as you work.
Another ergonomic feature that this wood router comes with is its clear, LEXAN sub-base. This allows you to have excellent visibility on the bit you’re using; this kind of sub-base also accepts standard template guide bushings for your convenience.
Lastly, the DW618PKB has a detachable cordset to let you work with more freedom across your workspace. This feature also eliminates your need to have a shorty motor pack.
Accuracy and Precision
In providing smooth and accurate results, a router should have a decent height adjustment system; DW618PKB didn’t fail to deliver. This DeWalt model comes with a micro-fine, depth-adjustment ring that has 1/64” increments for easier and more accurate height modifications. Bit changes are also significant when it comes to a router’s accuracy and precision; with that being said, this unit comes with excellent bit changing measures. It has a spindle lock button to make it easy for you to change the bits using a single wrench. This model also features self-releasing, eight-slotted collets so that you can eliminate frozen bits better.
Durability
Of course, the DW618PKB doesn’t miss out on this factor! The unit comes with a base and motor housing made of heavy-duty, precision-machined, die-cast aluminum; this makes the wood router light to handle and last long even with frequent usage; the router’s clear, LEXAN sub-base also adds up to its durability level.
Additional Features
With this wood router kit, you don’t have to get another set of a router for projects requiring either plunge or fixed-base operations; the DW618PKB has switchable bases that provide you with excellent cuts backed up with exceptional precision and accuracy. The unit comes with a plunge and fixed bases that you can easily remove and replace from time to time. Another feature that this model has is its through-the-column dust collection technology that delivers maximum bit visibility as it collects 95% of the released dust from the operation.
Lastly, this wood router kit comes with Marples Master router bit set, which is composed of 30 pieces of different kinds of bits. The flawless finish on each bit makes it durable enough for long-lasting cutting. Additionally, the set lets you cater to various projects because it includes the most commonly used router bits in woodworking. Compared to others, it holds up as a mighty fine piece of equipment.
Price and Warranty
You can avail the set at a reasonable price of $349.48 on Amazon. Considering that the router you’ll get in this package is combo-based, plus it also includes a router bit set of 30 pieces, you’re up for a low-priced kit.
For the warranty of DW618PKB, DeWalt offers a 3-year limited warranty with one year of free maintenance service for the unit. This means that DeWalt agrees to fix any parts with valid reasons, free of charge. DeWalt also guarantees your money back if you didn’t feel satisfied with the product’s performance within 90 days of purchase.
Conclusion
This bundle with DeWalt’s DW618PK and Marples Master router bit set is totally worth every penny. If you’re considering buying a unit from the brand, we highly recommend this package. You get a high-quality and durable set of router and bits for a small additional charge in the budget.