7/02/2010

WHITESIDE MACHINE 1550 CARBIDE-TIP 2 FLUTE 60 DEGREE V-GROOVE ROUTER BIT 1/2 CD X 7/16" POINT

Cheap WHITESIDE MACHINE 1550 CARBIDE-TIP 2 FLUTE 60 DEGREE V-GROOVE ROUTER BIT 1/2 CD X 7/16" POINT Review





Porter-Cable 893PK 2-1/4-Horsepower Fixed- and Plunge-Base Kit

Cheap Porter-Cable 893PK 2-1/4-Horsepower Fixed- and Plunge-Base Kit Review




I purchased the Porter-Cable 893PK package here on Amazon.Com and couldn't be happier. My main project that I purchased it for was a rather complicated loudspeaker design involving lots of templates, MDF, solid cherry, veneer, etc. I can say that my expectations have been greatly exceeded. Combined with good bits, the PC has produced wonderful results. I have used both bases and I'm impressed by how smoothly and quickly the bases can be switched out. The soft-start feature is really nice because there is really no kick back, despite such a powerful motor. The clear base makes template work go very smoothly. I also used the unit for trimmning veneer edges with excellent and precise results. Recently, I used the router to trim sheathing on a shed project and was amazed at how quickly this unit and a 1/2 x 3" straight cutting bit could trim the edges on 8' ply and OSB panels, giving perfect edges on the shed cladding. Another feature that I think is really cool is the built-in dust extraction system on the plunge base. While cutting down a bunch of MDF using a template, I noted a huge amount of fine dust produced by the router. Then, I read the manual and discovered how to use the dust extractor with my ShopVac. This was very effective in eliminating most of the dust, although it required frequent cleaning of the ShopVac filter. MDF dust is probably the worst for clogging ShopVac filters. A true dust collection system would help here. Overall, I think this is a very capable router package and one that will likely serve me for years of wooodworking projects. Yes, this is a bit more expensive than other offerings, but the feeling of quality was evident the first time I opened up the package. I think the extra expense is well worth it.