28 of 28 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
More than lives up to manufacturer's claims., November 10, 2001
This review is from: Makita RF1101KITK 2-1/4 HP VS Router Kit includes Plunge Base, Edge Guide, Larger Hole Base Plate (Tools & Home Improvement)
The first router I've purchased, although I've used many others before. I was going to buy the Porter Cable 693 with the two bases, but liked the variable speed, increased power, and new technology of this router. Starts up very smoothly and has plenty of power. Comes with a very nice case and all the extras mentioned. Although, I think (dollar amount) is a bit of a stretch for the value of the bits. I was concerned because this was my first Makita purchase (I don't like their blue plastic), but this router doesn't use the same plastic as their other products. Overall, well worth the money and seems very durable.
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17 of 17 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
IMHO: This is one great midsize plunging router., February 17, 2002
This review is from: Makita RF1101KITK 2-1/4 HP VS Router Kit includes Plunge Base, Edge Guide, Larger Hole Base Plate (Tools & Home Improvement)
Some of the features I was looking for in the router:
1) More horsepower than the run of the mill 1½ routers and less than my PC-7518.
2) Plunge ability
3) Light and easy to handle, good grips and balance
Competing products: PC-690, Bosch 1617EVSPK, Dewalt DW610/DW621 series, many others.
[...].
PC-693PK 1½HP - This is a nice machine. Having had experience with the PC7518, I thought that this would be a good choice, but it didn't have a variable speed control. Although the price was one of the least expensive models I reviewed prior to purchasing.
Bosch 1617EVSPK 2HP - This was also a nice machine. It met all of the requirements above and was priced in the middle of the bunch. The Bosch was ¼HP less than the Makita. This was my second choice.
Dewalt DW610 1 1/2 HP/621 2HP- The Dewalt's come in two kits, the fixed base 1 1/2HP and the plunging 2HP models. If they could combine the two, they would have a winning combo. Nice machines, but didn't fulfill all of my requirements.
Makita RF1101KITK 2-1/4 HP -[...] this is an excellent machine, that comes with everything you need, except a router table. Since I already have one, this is no biggie. The kit comes with a fixed base, plunging base, variable speed control, router bit set and at this point you may want to read the manufacturers comments and features. Features I really like:
1) The soft start is excellent. My old craftsman (1 1/2HP) would jerk on start, so you had to make sure you were away from your work or you could nick it.
2) Plunging - This router has a nice plunging base. It's easy to install and setup.
3) Weight and balance - I find this router to be balanced well and it seems to be lighter than it really is.
IMHO: This is one great midsize plunging router. I have been using this machine since Christmas and feel that it was an excellent purchase [...].
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12 of 12 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Better than expected, December 5, 2001
This review is from: Makita RF1101KITK 2-1/4 HP VS Router Kit includes Plunge Base, Edge Guide, Larger Hole Base Plate (Tools & Home Improvement)
Even with 21/4 HP, plenty to easily raise a panel with a 3 inch horizontal bit, this router is quiet! Quieter than my household vacuum, with plenty of power. The softstart feature is great. My old Craftsman router made me cringe every time I used it, it was so loud (an important factor when you live in a co-op apt.), and went out of adjustment quickly. Easier to handle than the Craftsman, too. Easy to use, and the two bases are great..the fixed for the router table, the plunge for freehand. I agree that the bits are not worth [the price], plus they are 1/4" shank, but the package is still a great value. The suitcase (the case is that big) is well designed, and a great way to keep this jewel protected. I love this thing! Makita has a winner.
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