You know how sometimes you order a tool, then after using it a while, you wish that you had made a different choice? That did not happen to me with my recent router purchase – although it has happened for other purchases 🙂 I have been wanting to get a 2nd router for strictly router table use. My Bosch plunge router is great as a handheld but a pain for table use. I did some research including previous posts in this forum, and decided to go with the Triton 3.25 HP. Some folks were recommending the newer smaller one due to the above the table crank, but I thought that, with the open design of my Veritas table, it was not a big deal. And it really is easy to reach under for the micro-adjust knob. I think that the only other thing that you get with the smaller one is a nice hard-shell case (not relevant when it will be in the table most of the time) and a set of bushings. Both come with an edge guide and aux base. They have improved the 3.25 HP model since it was originally released. It now has the identical push-button as the smaller model to change from rack & pinion to plunge mode (the original had a dial switch kind of thing). So for only $5 more at Woodcraft, I have a beefier machine. I’m thrilled! And no “buyer remorse”!!
So if anyone is considering the Triton, don’t rule out the older model. Depending on your router table, the crank may not be such a big deal since they both share the same rack & pinion design. I actually think that I’d rather just turn the knob under the table for micro adjustments – and no hole to drill through that steel Veritas table 🙂
John L
Replies
John,
Just curious what made the Bosch so difficult in the table? I have had the 1619 (3.5hp) and the Veritas table for a little while and so far I love both. Spring has a quick disable feature; easy to reach down to adjust; lots of smooth power. I've had it in and out a few times now. Anything I should be aware of?
I was going for one multi-use tool. "Read my lips: no new routers". :)
thanks,
Andy
Andy,
I have the smaller 2.25 HP Bosch (1614). It's a great plunge router but in the table I have to lean over the table to hold it down while raising the bit. I have never taken the spring out. I think it's not an easy thing to do on my Bosch - it's an older model than yours. The micro-adjust does not go through the entire range so sometimes I adjusted to the max that the micro-adjust allows only to find that I needed a little more height. So I'd have to rasie the bit a little more with the plunge mechanism and then micro-adjust again. Also, the Triton has a bigger plunge range than my Bosch. The Bosch worked well for me for a long time and it runs as smooth as silk. It's a great machine but I really like the rack and pinion adjustment and the full range micro-adjustment on the Triton. The Veritas table makes it so easy to only have one router. But since I already have the Bosch (it's like an old friend!) I'm going to hang on to it for most handheld jobs. I like its edge guide better than the Triton's anyway.
With you model's ability to easily remove the spring tension, it should be MUCH better suited to table use than my older one.
John
The largest Porter Cable is great in a router table.
Alan - planesaw
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