I apologize if I’m asking a question which (I imagine) has been asked many times, however…I need to buy a new router and wonder if anyone can render an opinion on one of the two horsepower Bosch rigs versus the fancy schmantzy Triton.
Now, cost is obviously an issue, but I’m willing to pony up the extra scratch for the Triton if the masses tell me it’s worth it. However, given that most of the (extremely favorable) reviews I’ve read say the Triton is especially good if one intends to use it in a router table, something I’m not likely to do too frequently, I’m leaning toward the Bosch. But, I read some not-so-great reviews of it on Amazon, a few of which really hammered the Bosch’s poor accuracy in certain situations.
Finally, required amperage is an issue for me — the two horsepower Bosch pulls (I think) 12 amps, safely within my range; the 3 1/4 Triton calls for 15 amps, right at the edge.
So, any advice?
Replies
Bosch won't let you down. Compare the the Bosch 3-1/4 to the Triton.
Consider the Bosch combo kit.
Who ever invented work didn't know how to fish....
Stephen,
I've been looking at routers also since I built a router table last summer/fall. Currently I have a Dewalt 621 (2hp) in the table...but woud like a different router in the table and reclaim the 621 for hand use. Personally, I would not buy a 3hp unless I was going to use it in a router table....just don't need that power for hand held routing. On the other hand, once you start using a good router the need and desire for a router table grows quickly(IMHO).
My experience so far indicates that swapping the router between the hand held and table mounted mode is fine as long whatever your doing can be done either way. In other words, you can't do raised panels with a hand held....you can do them in a router table but you need a heavier unit....and for quality, a much more substantial set up than just a fixed base attached to under the router table. It's more like converting your circular saw into a table saw.....works fairly well on sheet goods, thin stock, etc.....don't think it would do well with dado blades..
My suggestion to you is the same one I have given myself, need two routers: one for hand held, one for router table. If your not into the router table set up yet buy the smaller unit.
Bosch!
John
Stephen,
I've been down the road you are going. I have a Dewalt 621 that I replaced with a 2hp bosch. I was going to buy a third router, the triton for my router table. After reading several reviews and playing with it in the store, I went with another bosch, this time with the d-handle base. The triton seems full of features, but feels rather cheap in its construction. I use a jessem master lift with the bosch and it works great. There are a few reviews out that you can find on google that bash the triton. All said, I do have a complaint about the bosch. The magnesium housing, on both of my routers has a corrosion of sorts, and it doesn't come off. The surfaces are rough and they are extremely difficult to get in and out of the bases. Bosch apparently will replace the routers, but I haven't made that move yet. I would recommend to you, to look at the makita or the bosch. The makita has a little extra power, is quieter, and has an aluminum housing. Whatever you do, get a variable speed unit, not the single speed units that they sell at lowes. There are some great online retailers for this stuff. Good luck.
IF you are not going to use it in a Router table....go with a Bosch or Makita.
The D handle is great if you do alot of edge work. It is also nice to have a plunge base in the shop.
Good luck on your purchase!
Makita combo set. Love it. Though the Bosck is really nice too.
Rob Kress
People: I think I'll forego the Triton--need a router that I can use both in a (makeshift) table and by hand. Can anyone tell me where the on/off switch is on the Makita? Having labored with the Porter Cable's fairly remote switch for years, I am sure I want a unit that has a trigger-type switch, as the Bosch does. However, the fact that the Makita is apparently the quietest of the bunch makes it appealing regardless.
Thanks to all.
stephen
Lots of talk about the Triton, got PC thinkin' too.
Bosch 1619 featured to primarily work upside down. Bosch & DW are masters at speed control. At he moment the 1619 is about the biggest US router with the largest footprint. A good tool.
Unless your router will live 99% of the time in a router table doing raised panels, a 2 HP (and change) will suit your needs.
Ive got a a few PCs, and a few Bosch routers. I like the bosch routers. IMO the best bang for your buck is the Varible speed 2hp 1617 plunge/fixed based kit.
That router will pretty much do all of your routing needs.
WmP: Thanks--you've confirmed fairly well what I figured in the first place. Might have to veto your suggestion, however, and buy a Makita kit and not the Bosch kit.
Thanks again.
Stephen
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