BOUGHT A BOSCH WITH A TRIGGER SWITCH — I am wanting to purchase a new 2.5Hp plunge router. I have a Bosch 2.25Hp router but I don’t like the location of the on/off switch which requires taking one hand off of a handle to turn it off and on. There are just a few on the market and I want to get opinions about the best to consider. I am considering the Triton 2.25 Hp router. My router table uses a 3.5 Hp motor. Any other suggestions are much appreciated.
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Replies
Not being a smarty-pants here. Just sharing my experience. My recommendation on the power switch thing is to get over it. A "D-Handle" base allows a pistol grip power switch. I lusted after one of these for years but was unwilling to pay the price (whole new router, not just the base).
That being said I standardized on Milwaukee routers 20 years ago due to build quality, features and flexibility. There's my 2 cents.
Thanks for your opinion. A D-handle will not work for me. I did look at one of these. Some of the newer mid-size routers have a switch close to or on the handle. That is what I would prefer and quality build.
No worries. The Milwaukee switch location (and DeWalt and Bosch, etc.) annoy me until I get used to them. As stated I am not trying to be a smart-guy with my info ;-).
Hand routers are probably the closest tactile power tool to a hand plane when it comes to "what is right for you". There is a balance and feel that will feel better than another.
Back in the day I went from Home Depot to Rockler to Lowe's to Sears trying different routers. There will be a form factor that just feels better to you. That is your guy.
I can say that the Triton routers (which are very nice) have the worst power switch functions I have ever stumbled across. I actually gave all mine away. Someone else probably loves them ;-). Be diligent and good luck. You will get there.
P.s. If you are looking for a way to power down without letting go a dead man footswitch for about $20 could be your answer.
I assume from your switch location complaint that you have the 1617 model, yes? If so, Bosch makes a similar model, the MRF23EVS, which has the switch in the handle. 15amp vs the 12amps of the 1617, fewer collet sizes, I think it only has 1/2" and 1/4", no 3/8" (I've never used a 3/8" router bit anyway)
There's an outfit that sells a wide variety of collets for that Bosch. I use a 3/8 and a 5/16. I forget the name right now, but could dig it up if someone wanted.
What bits come in a 3/8 and 5/16 shaft? Phony Troll!
3/8 Solid carbide spiral upcut bits exist. It came in a set that was on sale cheaper to buy all 3 that the 1/4 and 1/2 individually. Eventually I ended up with a 3/8 collet because of it.
Check out the DeWalt 621. https://www.dewalt.com/product/dw621/2-hp-maximum-motor-hp-evs-plunge-router
It's 2HP, but has an integral switch on the handle. Have used this router now for almost 20 years and it's a great little workhorse.
I own Porter Cable, Hitachi, DeWalt routers of various sizes and they all work more or less the same. I splurged on a Festool midsized router two years ago and while very pricey, it has a lot of good things that the others don't offer. The dust collection is much superior -- it has several attachments to capture dust that others don't. And it works with a track saw track for cutting long grooves, which is a big plus.
Routers are frustrating to buy. I've wound up with more than I need, but you always need several because of the size. If you really know what you need functionally and expect that to be true for a long time, I think it pays to buy one you're really going to like working with.
Thanks for the suggestions. I bought the updated Bosch router that has a on/off trigger in the handle. I already have a lot of Bosch accessories and they make good tools so I went the Bosch way.
I have the TRA001 and it's a gentle giant - great for big stuff both in and out of the table. I pair it with a makita cordless trim router, which is excellent.
I would be torn between getting another one of the Tritons because they are so good, and either the festool or deWalt offerings which are a little smaller and offer great dust collection options.
I too have that Triton and a slightly smaller one too. Love them both and would get another. Switch is beside one handle and with my left hand can switch on or off with just my thumb. Had a Freud once but would never get another.
I have several older routers, varying brands, with this issue. I opted for installing a knee activated switch on my workbench where the majority of my router works happens. I still have to activate the switch with one hand, but with the soft startup on most of the routers my hand is back on the handle before it gets to speed. Once the cut is done I turn off the power with my knee. Some day manufacturers will take this into account, but in the meantime my alternative works for me (and it was pretty inexpensive to put in place). Best of luck.
I have several older routers, varying brands, with this issue. I opted for installing a knee activated switch on my workbench where the majority of my router works happens. I still have to activate the switch with one hand, but with the soft startup on most of the routers my hand is back on the handle before it gets to speed. Once the cut is done I turn off the power with my knee. Some day manufacturers will take this into account, but in the meantime my alternative works for me (and it was pretty inexpensive to put in place). Best of luck..