Manual milling cutters for wood processing: which ones are better, their prices. Milling cutter professional choose
The type of milling cutter is selected taking into account the type and scope of work, as well as the purpose: for professional tasks or for use in domestic industries. Let's take a closer look at what you need to consider when buying a milling tool for woodworking.
How to choose a manual wood router
Varieties of manual routers
- Submersible (vertical) - a universal model designed for different types works: formation of holes and grooves, removal of chamfers. Used by both professionals and amateurs.
- Edge (trim) - designed for grooving, creating grooves, chamfering. It is relevant for constant use by professionals; in everyday life, these works can be performed by other (more affordable) devices.
- Rotary - suitable for creating holes in wooden parts, drywall, plastic, ceramic products. Can shape edges.
- Lamellar - designed only for creating grooves.
- Filler - used to form paired holes, in demand in furniture production.
Important Criteria
- Power. The optimal value is 1800-2000 W, if more, the device will be heavy and less convenient to use. If the router is required for occasional manipulations in the garage or in the country, a model with a power of 600-700 watts is suitable.
- Speed setting. This function makes the device more versatile: 20,000 revolutions for solid wood products, 10,000 for plywood and plastic.
- Milling depth. For simple models, this value is 50-55 mm, this is enough for domestic needs. Professional devices have a cutting depth of up to 80 mm.
- Maintaining a constant speed under load - required to protect the engine from overloads, makes the work with the material more predictable.
- Collet size. The element is necessary for fixing the milling element: the more collets of different sizes in the set, the more different cutters can be mounted.
- Vacuum cleaner connection - allows you to connect equipment for removing dust and chips. A very useful feature when working indoors.
- Weight - modern models weigh about 4 kg. Devices that are too heavy are inconvenient to use, especially if fine work is required.
Minor Criteria
- Soft start - the function is necessary when using powerful milling cutters; it may not be available in inexpensive devices.
- Spindle lock - makes it easier to change the cutter, but is not a required feature.
The best universal wood router
Makita RT0700CX2 which is used not only by professionals, but also by amateurs. The model has three functions: edging, and milling cutter.
Characteristics
- speed setting;
- power - 710 W;
- soft start function;
- maintaining the number of revolutions under load;
- weight - 1.8 kg;
- cable length - 2.5 m;
- number of revolutions - 10000-30000 per minute;
- collet parameters - 6/8 mm;
- dimensions - 200x89x89 mm;
- the limiting diameter of the milling element is 35 mm.
pros
- Versatility. The milling cutter can be combined with 4 soles that are easy to change.
- The set includes 2 collets.
- The case is aluminum, which makes the device more durable.
- There is a dust extraction pipe.
Minus - no backlight.
The best plunge wood router
Interskol FM-40/1000E is easy to manage. Durability is ensured by high-quality materials, and safety is ensured by the built-in electronic system.
Characteristics
- collet parameters - 6 mm, 8 mm;
- configuration - vertical;
- milling depth - 44 mm;
- power - 1100 W;
- limiting size of the milling element - 30 mm;
- number of revolutions - 10000-25500 per minute;
- weight - 3.1 kg.
pros
- Housing made of metal-plastic.
- You can adjust the exact depth.
- The spindle has a lock.
- There is a revolver.
- Low noise level during operation.
- Equipped with a nozzle for a vacuum cleaner.
Minuses
- When assembled, it does not fit in a box.
- Not very comfortable revolver stop.
The best professional wood router
Bort BOF-1080N – modern model, which has enough power to perform milling work for professional and amateur purposes.
Characteristics
- power - 1200 W;
- depth - 45 mm;
- the minimum allowable cartridge size is 6 mm;
- cartridge size limit - 8 mm;
- number of revolutions - 11000-30000 per minute;
- dimensions - 230x265x140 mm;
- weight - 3.2 kg.
Pros:
- It is possible to quickly adjust the depth.
- There is a spindle lock.
- Handles made of anti-slip material.
- Branch pipe for .
- The base is made of cast metal.
- You can adjust the rotation speed of the milling element.
- The set includes a set of brushes.
- The handle has a built-in switch.
The best inexpensive wood router
Hammer FRZ1200B suitable for everyday use, construction and renovation applications. It has a good level of assembly and a well-thought-out arrangement of controls.
Characteristics
- power - 1200 W;
- number of revolutions - 16000-30000 per minute;
- depth - 55 mm;
- collet parameters - 6 mm, 8 mm;
- weight - 4.3 kg.
pros
- It is possible to adjust the rotation speed.
- The design is supplemented with a revolving stop.
- There is a pipe for .
- Includes copy sleeve.
The best powerful wood router
BOSCH POF 1400 stands out for its reliability and high power.
Characteristics
- number of revolutions - 11000-28000 per minute;
- power - 1400 W;
- depth of cut with a milling element - 55 mm;
- configuration - vertical;
- collet parameters - 6 mm, 8 mm, 1/4 ";
- noise level - 95 dB;
- weight - 3.5 kg.
pros
- You can set the exact depth of cut.
- During operation, a constant speed is maintained under load.
- Possibility of connection for removal of dust.
- The design is backlit.
Minuses
- The base may wobble.
- High price - as the products of a well-known brand.
The best wood router for decorative work
ELITECH F 1800E is used for decorative work - creating curly grooves, edges, chamfers.
Characteristics
- number of revolutions - 11000-23000 per minute;
- power - 1800 W;
- weight - 4.3 kg;
- collet dimensions - 8/12 mm;
- milling depth - 55 mm.
pros
- The design has an inrush current limiter for overload protection.
- The model is characterized by a smooth increase in speed for a more accurate cut.
- The device is equipped with a nozzle for a vacuum cleaner, which allows you to remove the dust that forms during operation.
- There is a backlight at the front, which makes it easier to use at night or in a room with poor lighting.
The best ergonomic wood router
VORTEX FM-1900 differs from most compact models in its dimensions. At the same time, the model is quite convenient to use, as it has ergonomic handles and a well-thought-out design.
Characteristics
- configuration - vertical;
- power - 1900 W;
- depth - 50 mm;
- number of revolutions - 26000 per minute;
- weight - 5 kg;
- collet size - 6, 8 and 12 mm.
pros
- Possibility to adjust the number of revolutions.
- Has a molded sole.
- There is a pipe for connecting a vacuum cleaner.
Minuses
- The equipment does not have a backlight, like other modern models.
- Works from the network, not from.
- No speed maintenance under load.
The best safe wood router
Fiolent MF3-1100E is a modern model affordable price, quite powerful and functional, at the same time it is distinguished by its structural strength and safety during operation.
Characteristics
- power - 1100 W;
- number of revolutions - up to 30,000 per minute;
- milling depth - 50 mm;
- weight - 2.6 kg;
- dimensions - 270 × 128 × 236 mm.
pros
- Ease in work thanks to the compact sizes.
- It has a side handle for ease of use.
- There is a scale for precise immersion of the cutter.
Minus - there is no possibility of adjusting the speed.
The best wood router for chamfering
DeWALT D 26204 K suitable for chamfering and grooving. The device is in demand due to its reliability, performance and safety.
Characteristics
- power - 900 W;
- rotation speed of the milling element - from 16000 to 27000 per minute;
- milling depth - 55 mm;
- weight - 2.9 kg.
pros
- Rubber grips provide ease of control.
- Spindle lock allows you to quickly change cutters.
- Soft start - necessary for accurate creation of a cut at the beginning of milling.
- There is a nozzle for a vacuum cleaner.
- There is a backlight for working in the evening on the street or indoors in poor lighting conditions.
The best wood router for home use
RYOBI RRT1600-K is a practical and functional model for use by experienced craftsmen and private craftsmen.
A manual router can process wood objects, cut grooves, holes, skirting boards, borders, baguettes and architraves. They can work on plastic or metal. The basic elements of the tool are the tooling and the electric drive that sets it in motion.
Types of routers
- Submersible. The equipment, together with the drive, lowers or rises, the tool itself stands motionless on the workpiece.
- Motionless. Milling occurs when the tool moves along the surface to be machined.
Details of manual routers
Control Details:- Handles for holding and moving the device;
- Start button. Usually located on one of the handles;
- Depth limiter. Prevents the cutter from dropping below the planned milling depth;
- Emphasis (ruler). You can choose the depth of cut;
- Revolver stop. Selects multiple processing depths;
- Parallel stop. Directs the advance of the router along the edge of the object.
Basic features of manual routers
- The amount of power. Distinguish light, medium and heavy milling cutters. Heavy routers up to 1850 W are best used on a construction site. It is more expedient to carry out homework on wood with medium (up to 1200 W) or light (up to 750 W) milling cutters. The power of the milling cutter directly affects the quality of processing complex sections of a wooden part.
- The number of revolutions reaches 30 thousand rpm. An electronic control unit for speed control makes it possible to choose the optimal value for a certain type of tooling and material being processed. Devices for the pros can work with metal or plastic, only it is necessary to mill at a low rotation speed. This is especially true for large diameter cutters.
- Cutting depth. In powerful models, it can reach up to 6 cm.
- Soft start protects the router from a jerk when starting. Prevents damage to the workpiece and saves the worker from injury.
- Shank size. Light and medium milling cutters have a diameter of -8 mm, heavy - 12 mm. The collets are interchangeable, making it possible to use tooling with shanks of different sizes on one router.
Where to buy a router
You can buy a milling cutter (manual) in Moscow in the Shuriki online store at a bargain price.Amateur craftsmen who create furniture, garden decorations and various decorative elements with their own hands often wonder how and what manual frezer wood choose? This tool is very convenient, and in a number of works it is almost irreplaceable. With the help of a milling cutter, you can grind a wide variety of elements quickly and without restrictions in shape or pattern. And for some beginner woodworkers, this tool is a real dream at all.
Although this article is about choosing a router for working with wood, I will still mention that with the necessary equipment and suitable characteristics, it can be used to work with other, rougher or, conversely, delicate materials. The milling cutter does an excellent job with materials such as:
- plastic;
- fake diamond;
- plexiglass;
- non-ferrous metals;
- composite materials.
What you need to know before choosing a wood router
When choosing a tool, you need to decide on what types of wood and for what work the router will be used. Wood can be different - solid from soft and hard species, as well as wood-based materials - plywood, chipboard, etc. The necessary characteristics of the router will depend on this, and I will focus on this later in the article.
Of course, a milling cutter that supports all standard collet diameters, has high power, is equipped with a soft start and speed control, convenient adjustment, is reliable and at the same time has a small weight can be considered almost ideal. But, firstly, such characteristics are characteristic of rather expensive devices of the “above average” level. And secondly, making price the main selection criterion is also wrong. It is advisable to choose exactly the type of tool that suits your needs, current and near future tasks.
So, for example, when amateur working with soft woods, it is not necessary to chase high powers and speeds. For everyday tasks, a record immersion depth of the router is also not always needed - 30 mm is quite enough.
If the device is purchased for a specific highly specialized job, it may be beneficial to purchase a specialized milling cutter. Often such devices can be purchased at a lower price than universal models the same level.
If the tool is purchased for periodic work on the farm, it may also be redundant with the maximum delivery set with many additional attachments. The quality of standard cutters for inexpensive routers leaves much to be desired - they quickly become dull, and cutters that you will never need can be supplied in the kit. Therefore, it is more profitable not to overpay for them at the time of buying a router, if such a model is more expensive, but to purchase cutters later as needed. Fortunately, a good set of a dozen cutters can be bought quite inexpensively - about 1000 rubles.
But the presence of a case and a “parallel stop” in the kit is a plus for ease of use. The rip fence is needed for milling at a fixed distance from the edge of the material. In the most budget models of routers, they are occasionally of unstable quality (mainly an uneven “sole”), but even in this case, this is one of the most useful accessories for a router.
Varieties of manual milling cutters - purpose and differences
Hand mills are divided into two main types - universal and specialized. The latter, in turn, are divided into lamellar, filler, edge and rotational. When deciding which type of manual wood router to choose for your home, you need to remember that all types of specialized models differ from each other in purpose and are interchangeable only in special cases. All types of work performed by individual specialized routers at once are available only to universal routers.
At the same time, specialized milling cutters, as a rule, allow their types of work to be carried out more conveniently, without additional devices, in contrast to universal models.
Universal milling cutters are structurally vertical and come in two types: fixed and submersible, with adjustable cutting depth. The fixed type is quite difficult to master. Rarely, beginners can use it, because moving the cutter to another position must be done manually and without stopping its work.
Plunge routers are much more common among household models, and it is much easier to work with them. Even beginners can use this type of tool - the submersible mechanism moves along the guides, and is unlocked, as a rule, with one hand. It has rigid springs that help to move the cutter freely without breaking away from the part.
Lamellar and edging specialized milling cutters, as the name implies, are designed for cutting grooves (lamellas) in the material and curly edge processing.
We can say that the edge router is the most versatile. For example, he is quite capable of such typical work as cutting holes for hinges or grooves. They can also work on a plane, but it is more convenient to do this work with a universal router. Also, edge routers are not always equipped with speed control.
Filler routers are useful in the field of furniture assembly - they are needed to form a dowel joint. Rotary routers are lightweight devices for handheld work on edge processing, figured cutting of holes and grooves. One of the advantages of rotary, edge and filler models is their lighter weight compared to universal ones.
Which router is better to buy for the home? Those who are just going to master amateur work with a router or already have some experience and choose a universal device for home work should definitely choose a universal type router.
For each type of milling cutter, you can pick up additional parts and accessories that facilitate work and expand the functionality of the tool. Including, allowing to use it as a milling cutter of another type.
Moreover, as experienced woodworkers say, the main thing in a router is additional equipment and templates. Various manufacturers offer a variety of accessories. Some don't offer it at all. With relatively simple work, you can work accurately without additional equipment, or standard equipment such as a parallel stop is sufficient. You need to be prepared that for maximum processing accuracy with more serious work, especially with curly milling, you will also need templates, some of which can only be made on your own.
A “template” is a tool used to accurately define milling contours. It limits or sets the space for the possible movement of the router through the material. Templates of simple shapes (round, oval, etc.) can be found commercially. Unique shape templates for specific details are made independently.
The main parameters of milling cutters - what to consider when choosing
Power
Despite the fact that sellers and manufacturers of power tools like to advertise high power, in the case of routers, the principle “the more powerful the better” only works with reservations. High power is important if you regularly work with a router installed in a table or router stand. A powerful router weighs more, it is harder to hold it when working “by hand”, and with a stationary installation, there is no need to hold the router with your hands. And due to the higher power, the processing speed increases.
For stationary operation, the optimal power is from 1800 - 2000 W and above.
When working manually, the power is too low, about 600-700 W in the case of younger budget models, suitable for small jobs with a small amount of material selected per pass. But with a heavy load, such a router can “slow down”. For manual work, the optimal power of the router is from 1000 to 1600 watts. To work mainly on weight, for example, on vertical surfaces, it is better to choose a lower power - such a router will be lighter.
Speed control
High speeds (about 20,000 rpm above) are suitable for working with solid wood. But, for example, plywood or plastic at such high speeds will burn. To work with them, lower speeds are needed - about 10,000-11,000 rpm. Plywood is a very widely used material for milling, so it is likely that you will work with it too.
Universal milling cutters that allow you to adjust the speed have a speed range of approximately 8-12 thousand to 27-35 thousand revolutions per minute. This is enough for any kind of work. The vast majority of universal routers, even budget ones, support speed control. In the general case, it is worth choosing just such a universal milling cutter.
Manufacturers of high-end routers, such as Makita, have individual models in their assortment without speed control, priced at the level of universal adjustable routers from lower-end brands. If you know for sure that the working speed of this router is suitable for your type of work, then buying such a model is fully justified. Thus, you can get more reliability and quality at the same price.
Depth and method of immersion of the cutter.
The insertion depth of the cutter depends on the design of the machine and its collet assembly (which holds the cutter). Most the best option- the initial position of the collet on the same level with the "sole". In the characteristics of the milling cutter, only the magnitude of the cutter stroke is indicated. But in the initial position, it can be above the reference plane and the actual working depth range will be lower.
A typical working stroke for household routers with depth adjustment is 50-55 mm. This is enough with a margin when working with wood-based materials of standard thickness - furniture board, plywood, chipboard. For professional routers, the immersion depth can be up to 80 mm.
Smooth start
This feature adds convenience during operation, especially when working with powerful routers, providing a smoother start and lower starting currents. Its presence is useful, but when choosing an inexpensive medium-power milling cutter, it is not critical. It is usually absent in the most budget models and appears in models costing about 8000 rubles in prices as of 2017.
Maintain rpm under load
This function, which is also called "constant electronics", ensures the maintenance of a stable speed of work, regardless of the load on the router. This contributes to a more uniform and predictable work with the material, and also protects the router motor from possible overloads. The function is useful, but its absence will not make working with the router impossible. Also appears in models costing from 8000 - 10000 rubles. and higher.
Collet size
A collet is a clamp on the shaft of the router, which ensures that the cutter is held during operation. On milling cutters for the European and Russian markets, the standard collet diameters are 6, 8, 10 and 12 mm. Some routers are also equipped with inch collets, but their demand in Russia is lower. The use of milling cutters of various diameters is ensured by interchangeable collets. Their large diameters allow the use of larger cutters.
Hobbyist routers usually support one or two collet sizes, often 6mm and 8mm, and the larger size is either not available at all or can be supported with a custom collet. Milling cutters 10 and 12 mm require more router power during operation. They are more suitable for working with a permanently installed router, and are unlikely to be needed for manual work in everyday life. Overpaying just for the fact of supporting the diameter of cutters of 10 or 12 mm during manual work is not worth it in my opinion.
Working with large cutters by hand is unsafe and highly undesirable. For a household universal router, the simultaneous support of two sizes of collets 6 mm and 8 mm is optimal.
Spindle lock
This feature simplifies the process of changing the cutter by preventing the spindle from turning. It does not have a significant impact on the cost of the router, and it is desirable that this option be available.
Weight
The less the milling cutter weighs, the more convenient it is to perform fine curvilinear and figured work “from hand” and the less fatigue occurs from it.
Vacuum cleaner adapter
Working with a milling cutter is very dusty because the sawdust emitted is much finer than, for example, when sawing with a jigsaw or drilling. Therefore, if you have the opportunity, it is highly advisable to use a dust extraction system. This is especially important when working in residential areas. In addition, flying sawdust can clog the working area of the milling mechanism, interfering with work.
To this end, most universal routers, although not all, are equipped with an adapter for connecting a vacuum cleaner. You can connect dust removal systems and other types to it in addition to a vacuum cleaner, you just need to pick up adapters. It is very desirable that the router had such an adapter.
Location of the speed controller
Highly important point when choosing a milling cutter with a variable number of revolutions - a speed controller. It must be located in a safe area so that it is not possible to touch it accidentally during operation. Pay special attention to the tightness of the regulator. The more difficult it is to switch, the safer the whole mechanism.
Condition for the possibility of installing the router in the table
Work "in the table" is possible with universal type milling cutters. During stationary work in the table, the tool is mounted “upside down”. An obstacle to the possibility of such use of the router is the poor protection of the spindle bearing from dust in some models of routers. In such cases, bona fide manufacturers specifically indicate in the description of the model that its use in the table is prohibited. Such devices include, for example, the popular budget universal milling cutter Black & Decker KW900. If this prohibition is not explicitly indicated for the router model you like, then you can try to install it on the table. But for complete certainty, it is advisable to additionally look for reviews confirming such an experience on the Internet.
Handle type
Comfortable handles are the key to comfortable work with the tool. Exist different kinds handles:
- "pistol";
- "fungi";
- "D-shaped".
There is no clear recommendation which type is better. The main thing is that the handles of the router you have chosen are firmly and reliably made and are comfortable for you personally. Light models of milling cutters have the possibility of a one-handed grip, which can be convenient when working on weight.
Switches can also be located on the handle. Whether this is convenient or not is also determined individually. Expert users argue about this: some believe that this simplifies and speeds up the work process, others are of the opinion that it is dangerous and very inconvenient.
Fine Depth Control
Some routers are equipped with an additional adjustment knob, which allows you to more accurately adjust the depth of immersion of the cutter. The function adds convenience when working
The quality of the overview of the working area
When working with a milling cutter, the quality of the view of the milled area is important. It depends on the following factors:
- the presence of illumination of the working area;
- the size of the opening in the sole;
- dust extraction design.
An idea of the quality of the review of a particular model of the router can be generally compiled from reviews on the Internet.
Availability of accessories
If you prefer factory-made products to home-made milling equipment (guides, compasses, etc.), then when choosing a router, you should clarify whether any equipment from this or another manufacturer is available for the model you like.
Smooth movement along the guides
A common shortcoming of many cheap routers is not too smooth, with a little "sticking", movement along the guides when setting the insertion depth. This is not a critical problem, but it can cause certain inconveniences.
In summary, when choosing a universal router for home use, first of all, you need to pay attention to the following characteristics: power, speed control, immersion depth, clamping collet size, weight, the ability to connect a vacuum cleaner, general convenience and reliability of the design. When choosing a device for regular or professional use, in addition to the list above, it is also useful to consider that the model you buy has a system soft start and maintain speed
Which manufacturers are represented on the Russian market
Many manufacturers of milling cutters supply products to the Russian market today. The following companies produce the highest quality products:
- Hitachi;
- Makita;
- DeWalt;
- Festool;
- Maktec;
- Metabo;
- Bosch (only professional "blue" series).
Of these manufacturers, Makita, Hitachi and DeWalt have the most inexpensive models.
An interesting option is products under the Maktec brand. This is a subsidiary brand of Makita, which produces less expensive power tools than the parent company, but also of high quality. Unfortunately, she has milling cutters in her assortment only without speed control, and her products are quite difficult to find in the Russian Federation.
AT recent times The Ryobi brand is gaining popularity. He produces milling cutters of good quality and at the same time at a reasonable price. Among inexpensive milling machines, the main interest is the products of Interskol, Black & Decker, Felisatti.
Above we have considered theoretical basis selection and essential characteristics of manual routers. Now let's turn to practical advice and the conclusions that I formulated when I chose a router for my home.
- In many reviews and on thematic forums, there is an opinion that buying a cheap router (approximately worth up to 8-10 thousand rubles in 2017 prices) is throwing money away. The roots of this statement lie in the unstable quality of many budget models. Indeed, many reviews indicate the presence of spindle backlash, the low reliability of collets and adjusting units in cheap models. But at the same time, there are owners of such devices who are completely satisfied with them and do not experience any problems, using them for years. This suggests that buying a cheap router is largely a lottery. Of course, when checking in a store, you can make sure that the work is even on Idling, absence or presence of spindle play, visual strength of adjusting mechanisms. But the most important parameter, long-term reliability, cannot be checked in the store. It remains to evaluate it by reviews. According to reviews, there are such problems, including with milling cutters of popular budget manufacturers in Russia - Fiolent, Interskol, "green" Bosch, etc. Unfortunately, saving on quality in budget models is a reality of the present time.
- The logical question is at what price the models that deserve attention start. As of 2017, budget routers with which you can count on more or less reliable work start at 4-7 thousand rubles (for example, Black & Decker, Bosch, Skil), and for 8-10 thousand you can buy really adequate devices ( Hitachi, Ryobi, Interskol). You can find out which inexpensive manual wood routers are better and their prices from the rating I compiled. Models costing from 15,000 rubles for periodic home use, in my opinion, are unnecessary to buy. They are more relevant for professional work.
- Even if you have chosen a model with excellent reviews, before buying, both in a regular store and in an online store, you should always check the router for minimal spindle play, accurate operation of the adjusting mechanisms, and smooth travel along the guides without jamming. It is necessary to test the milling cutter at idle. In this case, attention should be paid to vibrations and extraneous sounds in the operation of the mechanism. If they are, this may indicate the low quality of the instrument or marriage. From the purchase of such a copy must be abandoned.
- Some cheap routers sin in that the position of the collet in the lower position of the router is slightly higher than the sole. The difference can even reach 1 - 1.5 cm. As a result, the amount of free play decreases, the router has to be lowered, and some cutters of small length become impossible to use normally at all. This is an unremovable design flaw of a particular router model. For example, SKIL 1840 AD has such a defect. It is highly not recommended to buy such milling cutters. The absence of this defect can be checked personally when examining the router, as well as from reviews and discussions of a specific model.
- Another often found marriage in cheap routers is a curved “sole”. Sometimes it is noticeable even with the naked eye. It may seem ridiculous, but even such a seemingly simple element, some manufacturers of routers cannot consistently make even from instance to instance. With such a defect, the milling cutter becomes more difficult to drive smoothly along the plane of the workpiece, accuracy decreases. The absence of this defect should be checked visually before purchase or by placing the router on any plane.
- Bosch is an old and one of the most famous manufacturers of power tools. Therefore, many people traditionally choose its products, expecting to get a higher quality. In fact, the household line of Bosch routers, produced in green cases, is not a leader and does not stand out in terms of quality compared to other routers of a similar cost. The popular household models POF 1200 and POF 1400 have exactly the same floating quality as other budget models, which can be seen from many reviews on the Internet.
- Ryobi is still relatively little known in Russia, but it produces good quality power tools at an affordable price and has already managed to earn positive reviews for itself. It was the RRT-1600K model of this manufacturer that I chose for myself.
conclusions
Among those who actively use routers, the most positive reviews are naturally received by routers from recognized brands, the list of which I have given. This is due to their quality, ease of use and reasonable price. But the opinions of users on the question of which particular model of a manual wood router is the best often differ. This is due to the difference in the needs and features of the use of milling cutters, as well as the emergence of new brands that produce tools of good quality and a fairly low price.
When choosing, consider the criteria and recommendations described in this article, read the reviews on the forums about the model you like, and then you will not be mistaken with the choice. I also recommend that you familiarize yourself with my rating of inexpensive universal routers, based on reviews of their quality.
A hand router, if you apply technical invention to it, can become a very powerful tool, almost as good as CNC machines. So, Canadian Matthias Wandel constantly comes up with various designs of woodworking machines that use a hand mill, and which are easy to make with your own hands. In the video below, Mattias shows the process of working on a simple router and copy stand that he developed for his manual router. See how the functionality of a simple router immediately expanded!
Where to buy a cutter?
I have already bought a power tool more than once in the vseinstrumenti.ru store. In terms of the range of products sold, their quality, as well as prices, I consider it one of the best online stores in Russia. Also, its big plus is the presence of many points of issue of orders throughout the country. Therefore, I can safely recommend this store to you for the purchase of a router and not only.
Craftsmen who make furniture or perform other work related to shaping and fine-tuning wooden parts widely use a milling cutter. With it, you can select a quarter, drill a hole of the required shape, perform decorative carving. The design sometimes allows you to fix hand-held routers to the table, but more often they are used as a mobile woodworking tool. The most widespread are small electrical models called submersible or vertical. The rating of manual wood routers in 2018 will help the novice master to choose the right equipment for himself in this class.
Typical model for routers low power . Japanese brand manufactured in China. The main body elements are made of aluminum casting and durable plastic. Two ergonomic handles have a rubberized coating. The tool is different light weight- 2.7 kilograms, ease of use and unpretentious maintenance.
Engine power of 900 W at an operating speed of 27,000 rpm allows you to gently perform any operation with a standard set of milling cutters for an 8 mm collet. The processing depth is set with high precision.
The limiting factor in the use of a milling cutter of this brand is a relatively small stroke - 35 mm.
The relatively low price of the tool makes it attractive to home and professional craftsmen.
- ease of handling;
- light weight;
- sufficient reliability;
- The package includes a copier.
- connection of a vacuum cleaner is not provided;
- no soft start system;
- speed is not adjustable.
Prices on :
Continues review domestic development, successfully competing with European and Asian models. The tool is equipped with a nozzle for connecting a vacuum cleaner, a protective glass and optional nozzles that allow you to perform a variety of operations with high accuracy. Light weight of 3.1 kg, rounded handles, well-thought-out cable connection design make it easy to use even in cramped conditions.
The motor power of 1000 W with an adjustable speed from 20,000 to 27,000 allows you to quickly and accurately perform precise wood processing. Collet size 8 mm. The working stroke of the cutter 55 mm gives the master ample opportunities for efficient use of the tool.
- high quality performance;
- lack of backlash, allowing you to perform precise work;
- comfortable shape.
- relatively high cost for equipment with such characteristics.
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An excellent household grade tool designed in Germany for working wood, plastic and other building materials moderate hardness. The model is used in the manufacture of shaped products, cutting curly holes and processing edges. There is a possibility connection to the vacuum cleaner.
Ergonomic handles with soft grips and thoughtful arrangement of control buttons contribute to the speed of development and ease of use.
Motor power of 1200 W with a wide range of rotation speed control makes it possible to accurately process material of any density. A set of interchangeable collet chucks allows the use of various wood cutters. The working stroke of the tool is 55 mm. Immersion depth fixed by limiter set on a scale.
- ease of handling;
- reliability;
- the ability to control the speed of rotation;
- copy milling function;
- wide range of operations.
- there is no soft start system;
- insufficient strength of the protective shield made of transparent plastic.
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Powerful professional tool for intensive work has an original design and great functionality. The delivery set includes guide and centering devices, two collet bushings for 8 and 12 mm, a removable branch pipe for connecting a vacuum cleaner. Comfortable handles can be adjusted in all directions.
The 2000 W electric motor allows you to work for a long time without stopping even under high loads. Soft starter eliminates jerks when turning on the unit, which makes it possible to save the selected settings and high cutting accuracy. The control system includes the ability to control the speed and maintain the required speed, regardless of the resistance of the material being processed. The cutting stroke of 65 mm facilitates the universal use of the tool.
- great performance;
- long service life;
- wide opportunities;
- The optimum ratio of price and quality.
- large weight 6.3 kg;
- rough adjustment;
- inconvenient location of the start key.
Advantages:
Flaws:
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good tool, which is better to buy for the home, but can also be used in professional activity. It takes up little space and is easy to handle, but with intensive use in hardwood processing, it requires interruptions in operation to prevent overheating of the engine. The model is equipped with a parallel stop, two collets for 6 and 8 mm, copy sleeve and a dust extractor. Cutter stroke 55 mm. The total weight of the unit does not exceed 4 kg.
The Japanese developers of this brand tried to make it as functional as possible. The 1600 W motor is equipped with soft starters, speed control and speed stabilization when operating under load. For ease of use, the tool is sold with capacious case and a set of cutters.
- convenient design;
- high reliability of the main components;
- wide functionality;
- relatively light weight for a given engine power.
- the inconvenience of replacing cutters;
- weak fastening of the plastic ruler for setting the depth of processing.
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Another German vertical type router for performing a variety of operations on wood and other materials. It has an aesthetic appearance, ergonomic handles, precise work, thoughtful arrangement of all elements of the regulation and control system.
The kit includes a copy sleeve, a parallel stop, an adapter for dust extraction, collets for 6 and 8 mm and ¼ inch.
With a 1400W motor, this best home router weighs only 3.5kg. With 55mm of travel, the cutter allows you to perform most of the milling operations required in carpentry and repair work. Replacement of cutters is carried out extremely quickly, ensuring the reliability of fixation in the working position. Like most top-level models, the functions of soft start, speed control and speed stabilization are implemented here. For user convenience backlight provided.
- exceptional reliability;
- sufficient power;
- ergonomics;
- well-thought-out SDS-system for fixing and replacing cutters;
- the ability to fix the tool on the desktop.
- excessive rigidity of the return springs;
- short power cord.
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4. AEG MF 1400 KE
A semi-professional tool that combines high functionality with an acceptable level of energy consumption, which is important for intensive use. Motor power 1400 W with variable speed from 10,000 to 23,000 rpm allows you to easily adapt to the processed material of any density and hardness. The soft start device contributes to the accuracy of milling and the absence of power surges. Stabilization of the number of revolutions allows you to achieve maximum performance.
The model is equipped with a set of guides for an accurate pass on the workpiece, two support soles of different designs and collet chucks for 8 and 12 mm. Longitudinal advance of a cutter of 64 mm. For convenience of its replacement mechanical blocking of a spindle is provided. Built-in lamp Illuminates the work area, improving visibility and reducing eye strain. The weight of the tool at 5.7 kg is quite large for models of this power, but this is due to the use of only high-quality parts that ensure reliable operation.
- reliability and long service life;
- solid factory equipment, which allows you to start performing various operations immediately after purchase;
- good dust removal;
- greater cutter travel compared to other models of such power;
- excellent value for money.
- plexiglass sole with intensive use requires frequent replacement;
- users pay attention to a slight wedging of the tool during vertical movement;
- overweight.
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Precise and productive German tool for high-quality processing of wood blanks and similar ones physical properties structural materials. Engine power of 1200 W with the ability to control the rotation speed of the cutter in a wide range from 5,000 to 25,000 rpm with the function of its electronic stabilization provides ample opportunities to work with any product. Smooth acceleration prevents the occurrence of jerks, which has a positive effect on the accuracy of milling.
The model works with a collet clamp with a diameter of 8 mm at an interval of linear advance of the cutter of 50 mm. A spindle lock is provided to simplify the replacement of nozzles. The base plate is made of cast aluminum alloy with a sliding coating. The weight of the tool is only 3.4 kg, which allows you to use it throughout the working day. hallmark of this brand is the ability to fine-tune the depth of cut using a dial indicator.
- wide range of cutter speed control;
- automatic overload protection;
- high quality of materials used and perfect fit of all mechanisms;
- optimal tool weight;
- ease of fine tuning.
- overly elastic start button;
- lack of illumination of the working area;
- high cost of the tool and spare parts for it.
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high performance professional model designed for continuous operation throughout the working day. Its potential is unlikely to be used in living conditions. A powerful 2000 W electric motor allows you to process any kind of wood, durable plastics and non-ferrous metals. This is facilitated by an electronic spindle speed controller with the function of speed stabilization when working under load.
The model is equipped with a removable dust extraction pipe, a guide structure, a 12 mm collet.
The depth of milling is set using a standard ruler with a movement lock. 80 mm cutter travel allows processing of large parts, which cannot be achieved with household milling cutters. The unit weight of 5.1 kg is fully consistent with a tool of this power.
- large stroke of the cutter;
- wide range of rotation speed control;
- reliable operation of all mechanisms;
- visual control of the degree of immersion;
- high quality workmanship.
- complete set with a collet of only one diameter;
- the inconvenience of processing small parts.
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The best manual wood router among professional models actively sold in 2018. The 2,300 W motor is not overloaded when processing almost any material, including durable woods, plastics, and aluminum.
The model is intended for intensive exploitation under extreme load conditions. Regulation interval angular velocity from 9,000 to 22,000 rpm allows you to easily select the optimal cutting mode. Smooth acceleration does not allow jerks and failure of settings. The speed stabilizer ensures maximum performance under any load.
For the convenience of the operator, a dust extraction pipe, a transparent protective shield, and illumination of the working area are provided. The kit includes a 12mm collet chuck and two 6mm and 8mm bushings. The cutter stroke of 70 mm makes it possible to process thick parts. The tool weight of 6.1 kg is an inevitable price to pay for high power.
- the possibility of processing materials with different strength characteristics;
- high performance;
- long service life;
- ergonomic shape of handles;
- low noise level for a tool of this power;
- ease of use;
- long power cable.
- over time, play may appear in the guide parts, requiring disassembly of the tool and tightening of the fasteners;
- there is no case for carrying and storing the router.
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Conclusion
A professional who is accustomed to a particular model may have his own opinion, based on the specifics of the work and personal preferences. The information presented here is intended to give the beginner an initial understanding of the different brands of routers, taking into account their specifications and design features. When choosing a specific tool, they proceed from its ability to solve the tasks, not forgetting about ease of use.