Woody
Tool Workout:
Rockler Benchtop Router Table
Available only from Rockler
One of the most common complaints of home workshop woodworkers is the reduced performance of the benchtop tools. When the folks at Rockler boasted their new benchtop router table had all the performance of a full-sized router table, we were quick to say, "Let us be the judge of that." The assembly of the table was a snap, as all of the parts fit perfectly. Then we pulled off the protective wrapping, set up the fence and mounted our router base. The entire process took all of fifteen minutes, even with us making mental notes of all the downfalls of our existing bench top router table. We hoped all of these potential pitfalls had been addressed as Rockler had promised, and this was another well thought out design as we have come to expect from Rockler. The first thing one notices when looking over this new offering is that it is taller: 14 1/2 inches to the 16"X21" table top. Rockler's new offering is over 5 inches taller than our old one. This allows for easier removal of the motor for those quick bit changes and keeps the router off the bench, where it could suck up debris.
Clearly, the heart of this tool is its 20 3/4" anodized aluminum fence with twin 10 3/8 " face boards mounted via T-bolts. This helps limit clearance around the bit, reducing risk of damaging stock. The front facing T-slot allows for the safety guard and feather board mounting without cumbersome or dangerous clamps. The entire fence rides in two slots and also mounts with T-bolts, allowing for accurate adjustment and easy removal if needed. Another big table feature is the full-sized miter gauge track. This came pre-mounted and ready to accommodate your favorite miter gauge. Many of the bench tops fall short in this category, forcing the woodworker to use a cheap, undersized, inadequate miter gauge. Topping off the tabletop is the M.D.F. insert plate. These are easy to reproduce or you can purchase extras from Rockler. The plates have a unique but simple leveling system to prevent catching an edge while passing stock across the bit.
Once the router was set-up and adjusted, I wanted to see how the table would accommodate large bits and how it would handle one of those angry router bits. Once again, I got a surprising result. Most of the benchtop tables vibrate excessively, but this was clearly not the case with this table. I was left pleasantly surprised. Although it only goes to show a tool is only as good as its foundation, this one sits upon a set of trestle-type hardwood legs. This design allows for easy clamping to secure your table to either your bench or workmate.
This tool is priced right at only $119.99. Be sure to add the accessory kit for $29.99 and you will be set to roll. Yes, yet another advantage of this table is it is mobile and easy to store. It isn't your typical bench top disappointment.
If you don't have the space for a full-sized table, this is an ideal alternative.
It is the real deal in an affordable package. As promised, it performs just
as well as many full-sized router tables and better than any benchtop table
we have tried.
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Rockler
Benchtop Router Table A full-featured router table in a compact, portable size. Comes complete with table, fence, and hardwood legs... |
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Rockler does it again with a great
addition to your workshop
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$120 is a reasonable investment for
a solid worksurface like this.
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A good Router table is an essential
part of any home shop. We believe this is an excellent model, and will
serve you well.
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