|
We'll see how it holds up over time, but for right now, this is exactly what I needed. It took a little work to make it fit my router table. I needed a variable speed router immediately and was driving around trying to find someone who carried something other than Porter Cable (the variable speed Porter Cable 2.25 HP gets poor reviews here and on the Rockler web site), and finally I found a Woodcraft store that carried this Triton.I've got to admit, there is a lot of plastic on this thing, and some of the directions weren't really clear. In short, I like this thing. I tend to buy tools as I need them, and pretty much just buy what I need for a specific job, so I've accumulated several fixed-speed routers (Porter Cable 690s), but had nothing with variable speed that would work with larger bits. I've also been thinking about replacing my router table because the larger bits require that I install the bit from above while the router is mounted on the table, which is virtually impossible with the 690s and my table.I stumbled onto the Triton router by accident. But it runs great with my larger bits, the height adjustment is terrific (height adjustment on the 690s in my router table has always been difficult), and it looks like I will be able to change bits from above the table with no problems, so I can keep my existing router table.
One gripe is that if you set it up like it shows in FW, you have to move the table fence out of the way to adjust bit depth which means you have to go back and forth between bit depth and fence adjustments when using a bit that is tight to the fence. The only bummer here is that then the under-table adjustments are harder to get to (micro-depth and power switch, especially if you have it wired to an external power switch so that the router and vacuum start together).
The only drag is that we had to get the second Triton from Woodcraft Supply for a little more $ because Amazon has been out of stock. If you want a router to do double-duty as a non-table freehand plunge, then perhaps a different router should be considered (DeWalt 625, Makita, PC).
But considering how wonderfully this router works with a table setup it's a small price to pay. We have two indentical setups with Rockler tables and fences on home-built melamine cabinets and it's perfect for frame and panel door fabrication.
Per Fine Woodworking magazone this is indeed a fantastic router for a permanent table setup: Above-table one-wrench bit changes and depth adjustment with the crank handle. You can eliminate this problem by rotating the router mounting another 90 degrees CCW so that the crank hole is farther away from the fence.
Otherwise for table use, it can't be beat.
This does not include the extra templates, storage case and other accessories that the KC has. This is the MOF001C, not the MOF001KC which is the kit. Otherwise, great buy at a good price. I bought this router based on FWW's reviews. It is great and easy to use but be careful of one thing. Google MOF001KC and check out review pictures and you will see what I am talking about.
great router bad operator. It is really robust and has a lot of power and changing a bit is as easy as turning a screw.
I wanted an economical router for a table mount with top adjustments, but that didn't need an expensive lift. This Triton was everything I hoped it would be.
|
