DIY Network

Handy Router Accessories: Router Table Comparison From "DIY Tools & Techniques" episode DIT-314

Figure A

Host David Thiel compares the features of three different router tables.

• This entry level bench top router table (figure A) has a power switch on the side of the unit so that you don't have to fumble underneath the table searching.
  

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• The small size of the router table makes it unsuitable for larger jobs, but the unit is light and easy to transport making it a good choice if you need portability. It comes with a basic miter gauge, fence and dust collection port (figure B). The aluminum tabletop has two scales built in. The scales help you orient the fence front to back in relationship to the bit.

• Another router table is a bench top tool with an enclosed base (figure C), which gives it some heft. It has a larger table and longer fence than the entry level table. The fences are adjustable right to left as well as front to back. If you offset one fence and use a spacer with it, the tool can be used as a jointer.

  Figure B

  Figure C

  
  
• Some router tables have a built-in lift inside an enclosure (figure D). A wrench fits into the flush-mounted bolt on the table top. Instead of having to reach underneath the table to make height adjustments, turn the wrench to adjust the lift, which raises or lowers the bit. Raising the unit all the way up allows you to change the bit without disengaging the router from the lift.

• This full cabinet unit (figure E) has an even longer fence and more storage space than the previous router table. A dust collection port is mounted on the back of the fence.

  Figure D

  Figure E

  
  

  Figure F

• This particular one has the same type of router lift as the bench top model so you can make height adjustments from the table. The lift does not necessarily come with the table. The power switch is also mounted on the table top so you can get to it easily. Also, it has a full-size miter slot.

• This precision lift (figure F) has a digital readout which is an upgrade that can be mounted into many different router tables. You can turn the handle to set the router bit at the exact height you need.

RESOURCES :

Ryobi Router Table
Ryobi Technologies, Inc.
1428 Pearman Dairy Road
Anderson, SC 29625
Phone: 800-323-4615
Website: www.ryobitools.com

Bench Dog Router Tables Pro Top Contractor Router Table / Pro Top Router Lift / Pro Top Cabinet Router Table / Feather Boards
3310 Fifth Street NE
Minneapolis, MN 55418
Phone: 800-786-8902
Fax: 612-788-2518
Email: info@benchdog.com
Website: www.benchdog.com

Digital Router Lift
Jointech
11811 Warfield
San Antonio, TX 78216
Website: www.jointech.com