Beginner Tips for Using Woodworking Routers

It's important to follow some beginner tips for using woodworking routers. Woodworking routers are one of the basic pieces of machinery in every shop, but routers come in many shapes and sizes. When you're shopping for woodwork routers, you'll want to look for some basic features that affect how you can use the tool.

Plunge vs. Fixed-Base
A plunge router gives you the option of lowering the router into the material, varying the depth of your cut and producing intricate designs. With fixed-base routers, you set a depth before cutting, and that's the depth of the cut you get. You don't have the option of raising and lowering a fixed-base router during cutting.

A fixed-base router is fine for basic applications. Beginning woodworkers don't typically need the flexibility of a plunge router, and may lack the skill to use one properly. Intermediate and advanced woodworkers regularly use plunge routers, so if you're planning on sticking with woodworking, you should consider a plunge router as a necessary purchase at some point. Some routers give you the option of interchangeable bases so you can switch back and forth between a stationary and a plunge router. These are the most versatile, as well as the most expensive, woodworking routers.

Fixed vs. Variable Speed
If you plan to do many types of work with your router, you'll want a variable-speed woodworking router. A fixed-speed router is only able to function at one speed. When you're working with larger router bits, you'll want to reduce the speed to avoid generating too much friction and burning the bit. Variable-speed routers are more expensive than fixed-speed models, but the extra functionality is well worth the extra cost.

Check Horsepower
More horsepower in your woodworking routers equals more cutting power. If you're using large router bits or working with particularly challenging cuts and hardwood stock, you'll need extra horsepower. As a minimum, go with a 2HP router for everyday needs. If you perform challenging cuts or work with large bits on a regular basis, you'll want to go with a 3HP woodwork router to ensure that it can handle your projects.

Consider a Woodworking Router Table
You can use a router table for both basic and advanced projects. If you secure your stationary woodworking router to a router table, you can use it for basic projects, such as shaping edges on large pieces of furniture. If you're looking to do very detailed or advanced work, you can invert the router on the table to perform a variety of cuts. Combining a plunge router with a router table is a great way to complete advanced projects, such as door inlays, wood shaping and detailed scrollwork.