Replies

1. 
   philip_r | Jul 30, 2007 10:22pm | #1

   I prefer a router with a D handle when working with the D4.  I like the control they provide as they do not require you to look for the power switch and they don't feel top heavy (imho).  In the end, any router will get the job done.

2. 
   colebearanimals | Jul 30, 2007 10:54pm | #2

   Hi Gary

         I have a Leigh jig in use in my cabinet shop. I've got 2 routers dedicated for it. They are the Porter Cable 690 and a DeWalt 625. I don't know if I have a preference although the DeWalt has plenty of power and they both allow for fine depth adjustment . I've never noticed either one of these being top heavy for this use because in order for the cutter to be below the jig fingers the motor is very close to its base.  

         I don't know why the router you have couldn't be used successfully with your Leigh.But,if you get another router you can have them set up for pins and tails until your project is completed

                                                          Paul

   
   

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   Edited 7/30/2007 3:57 pm ET by colebearanimals

1. 
   Dunwright | Jul 31, 2007 09:11pm | #4

   I do not find the weight of the DW621 an issue, and I thought it's dust collection would work with the D4; it did, but not well enough. I fear it's a matter of time until the plunge is inattentively released.I much prefer the Makita D handle, fitted with the Leigh RVA-1. This sucker gets >90% of the chips. The ShopVac hose is attached to a ceiling screw hook via a screen door spring, this set-up is just enough to help but not so much that I have to overcome the spring.A while back, when I needed to DT a long board, I raised the D4 to mid-chest height, it worked so well that I use that height exclusively.
   Arlington, Texas (The dash in Dallas-Fort Worth)
   Practice...'till you can do it right the first time.

3. 
   THintz | Jul 30, 2007 10:58pm | #3

   I use a Bosch D-handled 1617 with my D4. I also like the feel of it and how it orients the router every time I use it on the Leigh.

   Tom Hintz

   Because there is always more to learn!

4. 
   bones | Jul 31, 2007 09:29pm | #5

   I have the D4R, and use two routers set up. I use the PC 6x series & an 894 for the other.  to be honest I like the 6 series with the fixed base.  Don't get me wrong, I like the 8 series routers, but they are taller and heavier.  I don't think the great power (which the 8 has), really plays here due to the fact that you are not hogging huge amounts of wood at a time.  Control and ease of movent to me matters.  Someone else mentioned a d handle that would probable be nice.  I guess what I'm saying is I like lite to move easier.  That's M2CW.  Take care.

   Government's view of the economy could be summed up in a few short phrases:
   If it moves, tax it. If it keeps moving, regulate it.
   And if it stops moving, subsidize it.
   
5. 
   woodhacker | Aug 02, 2007 03:36am | #6

   I'm using a PC 7518 on mine and love it. Someday I'll get a foot switch for it when I'm using the jig. I've overcome the weight of the router by adding a "parking bench" onto which the router may be slid between pieces so I never have to lift the router. The add-on does take up some of the width capacity of the jig, but I seldom cut dovetail pieces over 12 inches wide and the add-on takes up only about four inches. A little wax or Slip-It on the base of the router makes it slide effortlessly.