Another tool on ToolboxBlog.com that I’ve owned for a very long time and still use regularly, my Bosch 1611EVS 3+HP Plunge Router. When it’s not upside down attached to my Rousseau Stand in the Router Table Extension, I’m using this router for my heavy work and plunge routing.

Rating: 4.25 out of 5 stars

Features:

• 3 1/4 HP
• 12,000 – 18,000 RPM
• 15Amp

Experience:

Well, I’ve had this router running quite a bit since I bought it more than 15 years ago. I used it yesterday to rout a  dado in a piece of Fir. (see photos) It’s shown here with the Bosch RA1052 Deluxe Router Guide which is an accessory I need.

Not too long ago it’s tackled some huge jobs including cutting intricate patterns on the ends of 4″ X 12″ Redwood beams for Lintels and Rafters. I used a 1/2″ by 4″ straight bit and followed a template I made first.

Most often this Bosch router is afixed to a table as a portable shaper. I have used a few 3″ bit and the router’s power hasn’t been the problem.

Comments:

Locking the plunge function, changing bits and working around the plunge mechanics are the only issues I’ve had with this sucker. The slow-start motor is probably one of the reasons this tool has been around for so long and still working great.

I don’t have another huge router to compare this too but I like it’s weight, I trust certain Bosch brand tools for their quality, This has been a good solid performing unit and I am glad I chose it long ago.

Links:

The current model is the Bosch 1619EVS 15 Amp 3-1/4-Horsepower Variable Speed Plunge Base Router.

My Porter-Cable Laminate Trimmer is a combination of the 3102 HD Power Unit matched with the 3101 Laminate Trimmer Base. Although it’s called a “Laminate Trimmer”, and I’ve used it frequently for over a decade, I am not sure I’ve ever trimmed laminate with this mini router.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Description:

• 115v, 3.8Amp motor
• 27,500 RPM

Experience:

The reason this tool is not in my truck is because in haste to extract it from the bottom of a toolbag, I broke the baseplate and brought it inside to make another. I replaced the original baseplate with a square one that would ride along a custom jig. Like I mentioned, I may have never trimmed laminate, instead I use this mini-router for quick fixes and hinges. I don’t carry a 1-1/2hp router with me all the time but I have carried this little Porter-Cable Laminate Trimmer with me to every job for the last ten years. It’s very handy! With 27,500rpm it’s a wicked fast little router for double fluted straight router bits. Here is a picture of a jig I use with this trimmer for 3 1/2″ round-corner hinges.

Comments: The Porter-Cable 3102 & 3101 together are a better laminate trimmer than their current model for my uses. Functioning primarily as a small router I am pleased with it’s design. This tool has proven it’s reliability and once again lends credit to Porter-Cable. I never realized I owned so many Porter-Cable tools until I started writing this blog. I have no outright complaints with my Laminate Trimmer. Still rippin’ it up.

Links: The 3102, 3101 are discontinued products. Try these:

Porter-Cable 7310 5.6 Amp 3/4-Horsepower Laminate Trim Router at Amazon.com

Bosch PR20EVSK Colt Palm Grip 5.7 Amp 1-HP Fixed Base VS Router at Amazon.com