There seems to be no limit to what the router can do. That’s why just about every woodworker has one. But if you are using the router only as a handheld tool, you’re not taking full advantage of its versatility. Mounted in a table, the router becomes a super-accurate joinery machine that can spin out perfect sliding dovetails, and tenons that fit their mortises straight from the table. You can also rout more consistent edge profiles because the router won’t tip.

It’s not hard to make a router table in your shop. All you need is a piece of plywood or MDF for the top and a straight piece of wood for the fence. Bolt the router to the top and you’re good to go. But there are problems with shopmade tables. If you go the simplest route and bolt a fixed-base router to the table, you’re stuck reaching underneath to adjust the bit height, and removing the router altogether to change bits. Even using a router with above-the-table adjustments, you probably won’t be able to change the bit that way because the table will be too thick to allow the collet to get above it. And a simple fence will be hard to adjust.

So, if you are looking for a new router table, it makes sense to get a manufactured one. You’ll get a smooth, durable top, a rigid fence that’s easy to adjust, and built-in dust collection. The top will also accommodate a router lift, which makes it a snap to change bits and bit height from above the table. Add one of those (see p. 46) and a powerful router, and you have a tool that adjusts like a shaper, setting up precisely for any task in just a minute or two.

Sommerfeld Tools Router Table

This Sommerfeld Tools router table’s top is made from three pieces of aluminum bolted together. It takes some work, but once together it’s solid, and the base is, too. The top is pre-drilled for two routers: the Triton TRC001 and Milwaukee 5625-20, both of which have above-the-table adjustments. It has the tallest fence in the group, which is nice for routing boards on edge.

Street price: $670
Source: sommerfeldtools.com
Flatness with Triton router: 0.018-in. dip
Dust collection: Fair
Pros: Tall Fence

Read the full router table comparison review:

• Tool Test: Router Tables

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