question of buying a used router

[User Name missing]

I was at Sears yesterday shopping for an automotive tool when I came across a rack with clearance items. On said rack were at least half a dozen routers marked closeout/used. Fixed & plunge, variable speed, 9, 11, 12 amps, plunge bases, etc etc. I’m interested in getting one of these since the prices are roughly $20 cheaper or more. I was thinking of getting a plunge router, but not sure if that’s the best way to go. I want to be able to use it on a router table and I want plunge capabilities, but not sure if I should get a fixed with plunge base and a standalone plunge router. Is there anything I should look for, be skeptical about since these are marked used (although other than a few minor scuffs, they look virtually new)? Thanx.

 

[lil_Blue_Ford]

Most good router tables require you to use either a specific router or to remove the plunge base from your router. When I need to use a router table, I just use my dad's shop, he's got a dedicated router table setup.

For my everyday router, I just have a decent plunge router. A good one will have the ability to spring back up, so you can either set a specific depth or start with the bit above the surface and by pushing down you start the cut.

More amps means more power to handle larger bits. Depending on what size bits you're going to be using most of the time will depend on the amps and bit speed you should be looking for. Sure you can use a 12 amp high speed router with a 1/4" bit, but you may start to burn bits and the wood because the router was designed for much larger bits. But a 12 amp medium speed would, ideally, be better than a 9 amp medium speed because it will have more power and greater versitility. On the other hand, if all of your work is going to be confined to small bits and finer detail, you may want a 9 amp because it will not torque in your hands as much.