Review from page 92 in October 2002 issue of WOOD
under "Shop-Proven Products."
I have a personal rule against buying multi-anything
tools because each function typically compromises the others. DEWALT's new DW618PK multi-base router kit is an exception to the rule.
The heart of the system is the fixed-base DW618K,
boasting soft-grip handles and a 2-hp, soft-start, electronic
variable-speed motor. That removable motor also snaps into a matching
plunge base or D-handle base. I cut some hefty mortises using the
plunge base and detected no hint of strain from the machine.
Instead of rotating the motor in the fixed base to
adjust the height, the DW618K's twist ring smoothly threads the motor
up and down without rotating it. That means the power switch stays in
one place: within easy reach of your thumb. In a thoughtful nod to
left-handed users, DEWALT
engineers designed the motor so you also can mount it with the switch
on the left side.
Speaking of user-friendly engineering, the DW618K's
detachable power cord makes the changeover to the D-handle base
hassle-free. Simply twist the base of the cord to remove it from the
motor, plug it into the base on the handle, then plug the D-handle's
short cord into the motor, as shown above.
The true test of a multi-base kit is its plunge base,
and this one proved fluid-smooth and steady. It also has
through-the-plunge-post dust collection, which effectively cleared the
chips from even deep mortises. My only gripe about the plunge base is
that the beefy depth-stop rod hides a fair amount of the depth scale.
Almost as impressive as the performance is the number of
accessories that come with the DW618PK. In addition to the fixed and
plunge bases, the $250 kit includes a carrying case, 1/4" and 1/2"
self-releasing collets, two clear Lexan subbases (one that accepts
Porter-Cable-style guide bushings, and one with a larger 2-1/2" bit
opening), and a neat concentricity tool--the cone-shaped gadget in the
foreground of the photo--that centers the subbase (or your router table
insert plate) over the collet.
By George Granseth
Shop Now
No comments:
Post a Comment