Power Tools Reviews
Porter-Cable 7518 Speedmatic 15 Amp 3-1/4 HP Fixed Base 5-Speed Router
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 Excellent router........................................ You can't go wrong using this router. Excellent balance, power, and speed control are just a few of the features that make this router a tool to have. A little heavier than most routers, but what do you expect for a 3 1/4 production router? The Big Dady Listen people...this beast is a continuous duty production router, not the one router you will ever need. It is HEAVY because it is made to spin big bits without vibrating. Mass absorbs energy e=MC sq! Notice the handles? It can be used freehand. I have used it freehand to bullnose 200 LF of 3" solid Mahogany counter tops that could not be pushed through a shaper do radiused corners. It can handle your biggest jobs with grace. It has good balance and finesse, beautiful soft start and NEVER bogs under load. There is no other 15 amp production router by any manufacturer this smooth and balanced, and I have tried most . I use it only on jobs for which it makes sense and no other machine will do. Otherwise you are just lugging a barbell. It is not a laminate trimmer nor a lightweight edge profiler. Panel raising is no reason to to spend this much on a router. If you are stupid enough to spend $400 on a router then $500 on a lift then more on a table to "raise panels" when you could have bought a small or used shaper then my condolences. My shaper raises panels clean in one pass and will do so all day long. This router will too but 1/2" shank router bits can't take that kind of stress for long. For occasional panels buy a nice 2-hp model or run vertical bits. If you don't plan or need to use it freehand you can buy just the motor at a discount for a dedicated table application from some suppliers, great choice for a table if you have the money. Ps-why would you want to spin 1/4 inch bits in a 15-amp router? Powerhouse of a router Purchased this router in conjunction with the Jessem Mast-r-lift what a fantastic combo. As an armature woodworker and enthusiast I highly recommend this combination. Router I have several 7518 routers and several 7539 style routers. I have found them to be very dependable and repairable if needed, so far not because of the manufacturer but foreign objects getting inside. To make these easier to use in a table the Quick Change collet is a great addition. | |||||||||
