|
Now if the new collet and nut hold up the next time I use it I'm sure all will be well. I called customer service and they shipped me a new one.so the real test will come next time it is used. I purchesed this router to cut aluminum doors for new locks. Using a special carbide router bit the locking nut continued to loosen and apparantly the collet was defective. The router itself is very smooth and balanced and with the D handle very easy to control.until the nut loosened anyway.
But now I'm glad, usually the case is to big and takes up to much room. The 2 1/2 HP is plenty strong, and the D Handle fits very comfortable in my hand. I've owned this DEWALT DW618D router for about 5 months, and I have to say I love it. I've used it on several projects and it works very well. At first I was disappointed It didn't come with a case.
I'm not a router expert, but loved it from the get-go. I think it could have been oriented in a more open direction. Would these things have prevented me from buying the router had I done a hands-on before buying. The detachable cords are a great feature. The collet lock button is in the most awkward location, hard to get at with even my slender fingers.
This DeWalt router does come with a case. And there are no clear plastic side shields to snap in place to limit the extent of sawdust that this router can kick out. I still think DeWalt makes great tools. Probably not. They just don't take it to 100% to give the woodworker all the creature features. Now, I'm also a mechanical engineer and I can be fairly critical with a tool purchase. When DeWalt's new line of routers came out, I sprung for the 2-1/4 variable speed model.
It's very comfortable and managable, easy to hold and route with one hand. And it should, it's a beautiful tool, and I like to keep it that way. Knowing things like this ahead of time will at least prepare you for some of the unexpected things that you can probably still accept and claim it as a good purchase as I did. But for all I know, maybe some of these issues exist with other brands of routers at the same category/ price. I'm a home woodworker and wanted to by a new D-handle router with the latest features. I just love the variable speed, makes me feel like a pro using this router. My old Sears router has this feature.
The Milwaukee is fantastic with all of its well thought out features, but it lacks the power of this 2 1/4Hp beast. This router is no exception.
Milwaukee is.cheaper so it all really comes down to what the intended use is. The only downside is the price.
I don't think anybody serious about woodworking will be disappointed. So try the Milwaukee, I think you'll agree its great, but lacks the power.
I have the Milwaukee D Handled router and I think this is the first serious contender. I am always interested in Great products despite the brand yet Dewalt makes it hard not to be biased Dewalt tools have power, nice features and the all important accuracy.
It's rather expensive but worth the cost.
|
