Quite often, consumers are wondering if there are universal routers with which you can perform all the necessary operations. To solve this problem, you need to test several models that are time-tested.
Choice by characteristics
Among the main qualities that should be present in a universal milling machine, it should be highlighted:
- power;
- soft start motor;
- good balance;
- possibility of easy and smooth immersion;
- accessibility of controls;
- complete with useful and popular accessories.
A universal tool will be in the case when its power allows you to work with any cutters, this should include the largest ones. If we are talking about a motor, then you need to consider that it must have a soft start and have constant electronics. This is necessary to maintain a certain speed when the equipment is under load.
AdditionalFeatures
Important and convenient controls that can be used in manual mode. Experts consider the device to be universal, when the operator has the opportunity to smoothly immerse the cutter into the workpiece. The controls should be conveniently located and the cutter reach should be adjustable when the table is in use. The package must also be taken into account, it should contain:
- pipes for vacuum cleaner;
- side stop;
- replaceable bases with holes;
- Copy sleeve;
- centering body;
- Sturdy storage bag or plastic case.
Which models of universal milling tools to consider
Makita universal routers are known not only to specialists, but also to private consumers. However, the following models can be considered as alternative solutions:
- Bosch MRC23EVS.
- Triton TRA001.
- Ridgid R29302.
- Triton MOF 001 S.
- Craftsman 28084.
- Milwaukee 5616-24.
- Porter-Cable 895PK.
- Bosch 1617EVSPK.
- Freud FT3000VCE.
Some of them will be discussed below, while others, those that are not included in the test, you can purchase if you want to choose a truly universal device.
Choose a universal model in terms of power
Universal routers, as mentioned above,must have sufficient power. To compare some models, it is necessary to try to make shaped profiles, nests and a figurine profile with their help in oak blanks. The example sockets will have a depth and width that are 38mm and 13mm respectively. As for the shaped profile, it will need to be done in the amount of 3 units in one pass.
To check the power, it is recommended to make a fast manual feed of a fold, the section of which is 11x13 mm. Many models, when performing these jobs, are able to impress with work without overloading, even with manual feed. But it is possible to form a profile in a couple of approaches using not all tools. In this matter, three models stand out namely: Triton TRA001, Freud FT3000VCE and Bosch MRC23EVS. The engines of these three options have a power of more than 2 kW.
Choosing a universal model by cutter speed and speed
When considering universal routers, it is necessary to pay special attention to the frequency of rotation of the cutter and speed. For most models, the rotational speed varies from 8000 to 10,000 rpm. However, models from the manufacturer Craftsman differ in that their lowest speed is 12000 rpm. Experts still say that it is preferable to choose options with a lower number of revolutions for working with wood that is prone to chipping.
More than anyone else in this question, the Ridgid model, which did not slow down, can surprisemore than 35. This fact is surprising, given that its motor is the most powerful among the competitors presented. However, in this model, during testing, the current consumption increases, which entails an increase in temperature by 3 ° C after each pass. If you work with such a load for a long time, then the service life of the router will be reduced. For comparison, the Bosch MRC23EVS model should be cited, the current consumption of which increases only slightly, and the heating is not noticeable.
Tool selection by milling depth
On the market today you can find small and large routers, plunge or fixed base. However, when choosing universal milling cutters, it is necessary to pay attention to those tools with which it will be possible to accurately and quickly, as well as conveniently adjust the selection of recesses. Among the options with a fixed base, the Porter-Cable model, which has a rack-and-pinion regulator, should be in the first place. This model has a handwheel for fine and coarse adjustment, as well as a latch, the first of which is convenient for operation.
Ridgid and Milwaukee have quick set up mechanisms that have proven to be very effective. If we compare the Craftsman models with each other, then both have fixed bases, in addition, like Bosch, the fixation is carried out with a latch to the recess of the case. This reduces the amount of movement of the collet, and if you need to extend the cutter or reduce the overhang, then you have to rearrange the latch anduse the screw adjuster. Triton Plunge Routers have a fairly coarse depth setting, which is provided by turning the knob. It is used to dive into the material, but this function is not only inconvenient, but also difficult to perform.
Selecting a model for ease of control
A universal handheld wood router should not only be accurately and easily adjusted, but also be easy to operate. Tools of the Triton TRA001 and Freuda brands are too heavy, in addition, they are prone to tipping over due to their impressive mass, clumsy, which is noticeable when working with the edges of workpieces. Bosch MRC23EVS weighs even more, but has a low center of gravity and is highly manageable compared to large plunge-cut tools. This model has another feature, which is expressed in the switch built into the handle.
For other options, you have to release one of the handles to turn it off and on, while loosening the grip. The Bosch model has the same switch found in dedicated plunge-cut tools, so it's easy to operate and the operator doesn't have to change hand positions.
Alternative solutions for universal routers
One of the most popular manufacturers in the modern market of electrical equipment is Makita, its universal router RP 2300 FC has a support platform, which is made of cast aluminum. This not only lightens the weight of the tool, but also protects the equipment from scratches. This device has a functionspeed control, and the working stroke of the cutter is 70 mm. The power of the device is 2300 W, it has a soft start, but there is no built-in nozzle for a vacuum cleaner.
If you are interested in universal two-base routers, then you should pay attention to the FELISATTI RF62/1500VE model, the cost of which is 14,800 rubles. This tool is a multifunctional equipment that has a submersible and edge base. This model can be installed on a milling table, which will allow you to get a stationary, full-featured tool with height adjustment. This Felisatti universal router weighs only 3.1 kg, and the collet diameter can be 8 or 12 mm.
Interskol milling cutter is also quite often chosen by consumers. As an example, consider the model FM-32/1900E, the cost of which is 6700 rubles. The power of the device is 1900 W, there is a soft start, and the number of revolutions per minute varies from 9000 to 26,000. This Interskol milling cutter is characterized by a working stroke of the cutter within 40 mm.
