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1) Submitted by
William, from Camas, WA
on 10/31/2012
Customer Rating: 
This is an excellent kit, and I rate it at the top of the class of mid-size combo kits. The fixed base has the lowest center-of-gravity of any modern router. This helps control cuts when edge profiling. The plunge base is second to none, and most wooworking magazines recognize this in their tool tests. The Bosch 1617 sometimes rates well, but I found the bases very sticky, and difficult to change. In contrast, the Dewalt 618 motor pulls straight out of the base - no twisting required. This router accepts standard P.C. style bushings for dovetail or inlay work. It also comes with a large-opening baseplate for larger bits. I found the accuracy of this machine to be excellent. Inlays fit precisely every time. As a furniture builder, it does everything I need it to. This router is equally at home in a fine woodworking shop or a construction site. Chamfers, hinge mortising, dovetails, inlays, circle jigs. No problem. After 2 years of regular use, it still works like new. The plunge action is excellent, and the handles are the most comfortable I have tried. You can use one wrench or two for changing bits. It comes with separate 1/4" and 1/2" collets which grip bits firmly. Height adjustments are easy and lock securely. I don't use the D-handle base as often as I thought. With the handle extending so far from the base, it can feel tippy until you get the hang of it. I think I'll mount an offset baseplate on the D-handle and use it for edge profiling. I would like to see an overmolded handle on the D-handle base. Otherwise no complaints - just another great Dewalt tool.
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