DEWALT DW618PK 12 AMP 2-1/4 HP Plunge- and Fixed-Base Variable-Speed Router Kit with 1/4-Inch and 1/2-Inch Collets

by DEWALT

Product Description

Amazon.com Product Description

Featuring a 12 amp variable-speed, soft-start motor, the DEWALT 2-1/4-Inch Fixed-Base/Plunge-Base Router Combo Kit is packed with smart design features that make routing easy. Depth adjustment and base changes are tool free, and integrated dust control keeps work spaces clean and improves cut line visibility.

2-1/4-Inch EVS Fixed Base Plunge Router Combo Kit with Soft Start At a Glance: Versatile two-in-one setup with powerful 12 amp motor Soft start, electronic variable-speed control from 8,000 to 24,000 rpm Quick, easy bit and base changes Comfortable handle for optimum accuracy Backed by a three-year limited warranty

Kit includes a router, sub base, and depth adjustment ring.

Powerful and Accurate with Variable-Speed Control
The 2-1/4-horsepower, 12 amp motor allows the router to cut through the toughest hardwoods. The router's electronic variable-speed trigger lets you select from between 8,000 and 24,000 rpm for specific applications. And because this system employs full electronic feedback, you can trust the router to provide constant speed under load. In addition, the motor's soft start reduces start-up torque for optimum control.

The router's fixed base features a micro-fine depth-adjustment ring that provides precise bit adjustments in 1/64-inch increments. Because the ring--not the motor can--turns to adjust bit depth, a constant switch/cordset location is maintained when you are using the router in a table. This minimizes difficulty in turning the unit on and off and keeps operation consistent.

The plunge base features an adjustable five-position turret stop for use when making repeated plunge cuts. The easy-to-reach plunge-release lever and switch keep control at your fingertips during routing.

Quick, Secure Base and Bit Changes
The clear, LEXAN sub-base offers optimum bit visibility and base durability, and it accepts standard template-guide bushings to make application-specific setups easy. Also, a sub-base concentricity gauge is included. If you insert this into the collet prior to bit installation, it will help you center the sub-base relative to bit location when making your cut line off of the side of the base.

Moreover, the sub-base and other included bases are designed to make both base and bit changes easy. Quick-release motor latches allow for fast and easy motor-pack removal, while a spindle-lock button allows for single-wrench bit changes. The fixed base also offers a flat top, so the router can be set upside down for easy bit and depth changes. Additionally, long, self-releasing, eight-slotted collets provide improved bit retention and prevent bits from jamming.

Built for Consistency and Durability
Routing applications produce a lot of dust, which can result in extra wear and tear on electronic parts. That's why this system features a dust-sealed switch that protects against dust ingestion for longer tool life. Other components that contribute to the tool's overall consistency and durability include heavy-duty metal housings, precision-machined brass bushings, and case-hardened steel guide rods on the plunge base.

Comfortable Operation with Integrated Dust Control
Each base features comfortable rubber over-molded handles and a low center of gravity for improved balance and control and reduced user fatigue. The base also has a patented through-the-column dust-collection system. This allows a vacuum to be attached to the router without blocking your line of sight.

In addition, this router kit offers you the ability to work with the switch and cordset on either your left or right side. Also contributing to this setup's usability is a detachable cordset that can be easily serviced. A shorty cord motor pack is not required if you opt to place the motor can in a D-Handle base.

The DW618PK DEWALT 2-1/4-Inch EVS Fixed Base/ Plunge Base Router Combo Kit with Soft Start is backed by a three-year limited warranty.

What's in the Box
DW618M motor pack, DW6184 fixed base, DW6182 plunge base, 1/4-inch and 1/2-inch collets, wrench, sub-base concentricity gauge, large-hole sub-base, vacuum adapter, and kit box.

Everything stays safe and secure in the durable kit box.

Product Description

12 Amps - Microfine depth adjustment - Electronic variable speed with Soft Start, Heavy duty cast aluminum construction, Quick release motor, Spindle lock, Large rubber grips, Flat top, Available as a kit (DW618PK) with a fixed base and a plunge base, with fixed base only (DW618K), or with a D-handle fixed base (DW618D)

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Product Details

• Product Dimensions: 15.9 x 24 x 9.1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 22.8 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Shipping: Currently, item can be shipped only within the U.S. and to APO/FPO addresses. For APO/FPO shipments, please check with the manufacturer regarding warranty and support issues.
• Shipping Advisory: This item must be shipped separately from other items in your order. Additional shipping charges will not apply.
• ASIN: B00006JKXE
• California residents: Click here for Proposition 65 warning.
• Item model number: DW618PK
• Average Customer Review: 4.1 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (55 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #3,886 in Home Improvement (See Top 100 in Home Improvement)
  • #4 in Home Improvement > Power & Hand Tools > Power Tools > Routers

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

208 of 210 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Hands Down - Best of Breed Router Kit, November 15, 2002

By 

Scott Fairchild (Milan, MI United States) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: DEWALT DW618PK 12 AMP 2-1/4 HP Plunge- and Fixed-Base Variable-Speed Router Kit with 1/4-Inch and 1/2-Inch Collets (Tools & Home Improvement)

I invested a lot of time when deciding which router kit I wanted and finally chose the DeWalt model. I chose from a short list of the top-selling kits below, all of which I actually used in a real test environment:

* Makita RF1101KIT (w/free edge guide and dust collection)
* Porter-Cable 693VSPK (w/free edge guide, no dust collection)
* Bosch 1617EVSP
* DeWalt DW618PK edge guide

When all is said and done, All are very well-built machines by reliable manufacturers. I did not choose the Porter Cable because of the tool-required change from base to base as well as the lower power and lack of soft-start. The Bosch lost because of the flimsy edge guide they offer (currently free) and the tendency for dust to really collect near the bit and block your view.

It came down to the Makita and the Dewalt, and both performed VERY well, and had everything I asked for (micro adjustment, easy motor change, soft start, 2.25HP, easy-plunge control etc.) At first, the Makita had the "edge" :) because it came with the free edge guide, and the DeWalt cost ($) more. However, I finally decided on the DeWalt because the dust collection was truly integrated with the unit (the Makita's was a separate, but included, plate you attached), and that's what pushed it over the edge. The only other real difference was the DeWalt has a removeable power cord, which wasn't a deal-maker, but is nice.

Other than the slight heaviness (The Bosch was the lightest), I am completely pleased with my purchase as it works just awesome. When all is said and done, the DeWalt was the most expensive, because you have to buy the edge guide separately, but besides that, the DeWalt is the winner.

80 of 81 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars What a trade up! Great value for an excellent router., November 5, 2002

By 

Michael (Macedon, NY United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: DEWALT DW618PK 12 AMP 2-1/4 HP Plunge- and Fixed-Base Variable-Speed Router Kit with 1/4-Inch and 1/2-Inch Collets (Tools & Home Improvement)

This is a great deal. I have wanted to trade up from my Craftsman router for a while. I was considering purchasing the DW621, but when I saw this combo kit was coming out I decided to wait to get this kit.
Having waited for a few months to get this new tool, I played quite a bit this weekend. I just purchased a new house and I wanted to make some moldings. So this weekend on worked on a 3 piece chair rail for the dining room. I had no problem mouting the router on a Rousseau plate and mounting it in my homemade router table (without the plunge base attached).
I had never done moldings before and I was very pleased with the results. This router has ample power and control. I had to make multiple passes but the feed rate while slow was acceptable, and I never felt like the work was out of control. (Also, the finished product was a lot cleaner than with my previous router - but the I was also using significantly more expensive router bits.)
The plunge base was similarly easy to use, though I only made a few sample cuts. I have no complaints with the plunge mechanism. The soft start is also a great feature.
I am very pleased with my purchase. For an extra (Money) (over the DW621), I got both a fixed base and a plunge router. I know serious woodworkers have multiple routers, but I don't have the budget for that. I had wanted a fixed base since I mostly use the router in the table. However, I also wanted at least a 2 HP router in order to do molding (though I wouldn't recommend using this for great quantities of molding). This router kit gave me the best of both worlds. Given the small cost for two bases and the 2 1/4 HP, this is a great deal for those of you who can also get by with a single router. Now, I can also have a plunge router when I need it.

54 of 54 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars ITS WORTH THE EXTRA MONEY!!!!, February 28, 2003

By 

Justin Dennis (The Mountains or West Virginia) - See all my reviews

This review is from: DEWALT DW618PK 12 AMP 2-1/4 HP Plunge- and Fixed-Base Variable-Speed Router Kit with 1/4-Inch and 1/2-Inch Collets (Tools & Home Improvement)

After having this router for about two months now I have been able to completely shop-test it. I recommend this router system to anyone who is looking for a router. The soft start feature is a must(the router does not try to fly out of your hands when turning on or off). The variable speed is perfect for cutting through hard or soft woods, and is easy to control even in the middle of routing. DeWalt has completely designed a universal routing system with the fixed base and the plunge base, switching the motor is easy and completely accurate. I suggest to anyone on getting the 2-1/4HP DeWalt router system over any other router system out there for the dependable and accurate routing this system offers. It is worth the extra money! I would suggest on ordering the DW6913 Universl Edge Guide with Dust Collection which fits perfectly with both bases and is remarkable to use. DeWalt has made another high quality woodworking product to use with the woodworker in mind. Highly recommended!!!!