Routers

A router can be one of the most versatile and enjoyable to use power tools that you can add to your workshop – its capabilities are almost endless. Depending on what attachments and bits you use on your router, it can be used as a jointer, a drill, a jigsaw, or even a planer. The configuration of a router also borrows from several tools – it has the round base and the basic shape of an orbital sander, but there is a center shaft where bits are attached in much the same fashion as a drill press.

There are numerous blades and bits available for routers and just a few of the projects this power tool is capable of:

• Applying decorative edging to wood lumber
• Cutting dados for shelving
• Trimming laminates
• Cabinetmaking
• Creating decorative millwork and trim
• Furniture making

Accessories such as router tables, fences, and jigs can quickly turn even beginning DIYers into decent woodworkers.

Types of Routers

There are many styles and sizes of routers and they cover a wide price range. Higher end models feature more powerful motors, several speeds, and some offer a soft start feature which allows the shaft and bit to build up speed slowly. This makes larger routers a little easier to control when first turned on. The two types of routers normally found in home workshops:

• Plunge routers – this power tool is ideal for jobs where the routing is going to begin in the center of a piece of wood such as creating a raised panel cabinet door. The router is placed on your work surface and the shaft with an attached bit can be lowered down into the wood. When you’ve finished cutting, you simply raise the shaft back up away from the wood surface.
• Fixed base routers – this variation is usually a little lighter than plunge models and can be a little less expensive. The depth of your bit is established before starting and you move into your project from the side or by tilting the base and slowly lowering the bit into the work surface. If you anticipate a lot of projects where you’ll be starting at the interior of the wood, it might be a good idea to invest in a plunge router.

Routing normally requires a lot of precision and intricate details that can be difficult to do with the torque many of these handy tools produce. Two accessories that can make routing much easier are fences and router tables. A fence provides a straight edge for guiding the router base along a straight cut – much the same as the fence on a table saw. Router tables allow you to secure the power tool in one position and move the materials against the blade. In most cases the router is mounted below the table with just the bit extending above the table surface.

Router Safety

As enjoyable as routers can be to use, they can also be very dangerous. When using a router, you should also maintain control by keeping both hands on the tool as the torque produced can be considerable. It’s also important to make sure the materials you’re routing are secure and can’t accidentally slip while working. Always wear ear and eye protection when using a router and make sure the tool is unplugged before changing or adjusting bits and blades.