This Old Workshop, Porter Cable Router Review, woodworking

Woody Tool Workout:

Porter-Cable 1-1/2 HP Router Kit, Model #693PK

Once you get into woodworking one of the tools you MUST get is a good router. Several questions then must be answered. What size motor should it have. Should I get a plunge router, or a fixed base router?. What brand should I buy?

Porter Cable has a great answer to those questions in the form of its 1-1/2 HP Router Kit, Model #693PK. The pack includes the 10 Amp router motor, long recognized as the standard of the industry. Also included is a fixed router base and plunge router base.

The versatility of this combo is a great addition to your shop. The ability to change from plunge cutting to a fixed base arrangement brings plenty of options to your woodworking.

Our fixed base is attached to our shop made router table and the motor easily drops out to slips into the plunge base for handheld cutting. I must admit that nothing beats the luxury of having multiple routers but the 693PK is an excellent alternative to start with.

Changing the router bases is as simple as turning the locking nut and slipping it out and into the new base. Change ups are quick and easy. Also changing the bits is about as basic as any other router I have seen.

Versatility is enhanced with the Included 1/4'' and 1/2'' collets allowing you to use the larger 1/2" bits for strength and durability. The whole set comes in a heavy-duty carrying case.

We have used this router in several different set-ups, on a router table, with dovetail jigs, with various shape cutting jigs, plunge cutting almost any set up we can think of, and it has performed wonderfully. A good router is definetly one of the basic tools any woodshop needs. We definetly feel that this Porter Cable set is worth your time and money.

Our shop contains a few different routers but this set faces the majority of the work. It has performed great, and the ability to change bases is a feature we like.

Porter-Cable is a master tool crafting company. Their products are durable and well designed

Selling for around $199 this is an excellent router to begin with and use for a long time in any shop. The feature of multiple bases is an excellent bonus.

A router is one of the basic shop requirements in our opinion. The techniques and versatility it adds to your skills is essential.

Available through Rockler or check your local tool store