Customer Reviews

Porter-Cable 6911 D-Handle Base

5 star:		(14)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

My D-handle base came as part of a router package I bought from Amazon.com. I can't imagine not having the D-handle. The toggle switch on the PC 690 is not very conveniently located. The D-handle base has the trigger switch, which turns on and off without fumbling or taking your eyes off the work. In addition, I think it gives me a more stable grip than holding the two standard knobs on the sides. Forward-backward tilt is much more easily controlled with the D-handle.

If you get the D-handle base as part of a package, it's obviously cheaper, but if not, I'd still recommend considering it.

I love the control and stability afforded by the d-handle. My only beef is that the base is designed for the Porter Cable 691 router motor. What do you do with the extra cord length of the 690 motor when it is installed in the d-handle base? It appears the only difference between the 690 and 691 motor is the length of the cord (which is plugged into the d-handle to activate the trigger switch). The extra cord length of the 690 motor is a bit cumbersome to wind around the motor. The PC model 690 motor I own was acquired with the 693PK package, (#1001 base and #6931 plunge base), and I really don't want to spend an additional $110+ for the 691 as the 690 fits, adjusts, and operates exceptionally. Any suggestions as to what to do with the extra cord length>

I just got it and mounted the router and I love it. I coiled the cord on the router and put a plastic tie around the cord and ran another wire tie through the top and bound it on the top. But if anyone else does this make sure you leave enough slack the adjust the depth of the cutter bit.

Finally bought this base to go with my existing 690 router kit. It is fantastic. The control that you have over the router is phenominal and it makes up for the fact that the 690 motor does not have a soft start. This base has made me want to use my router table less for certain jobs. The long cord was going to be a problem that I didn't want to live with, but luckily I found some connectors that have strain relief and a securing clip so that I can attach a short lead for the d handle, or a long lead for a conventional base. The connectors are even the right colour grey.

I recently recieved the D-handle base in the mail, I was expecting a used one for the low price and complimentary shipping, however, to my surprise received a brand-new sealed in box item! Thanks Amazon! Regarding the extra cord length, I simply unbolted the top plastic housing and cord retention clip, removed the three easily accessible hot/neutral/ground connectors. Next, cut the old cord ~ 16" from the male end, expose the three wires ~2" being careful not to cut into each wire's insulation. Then, rethread through the cord-relief rubber, bolt down the cord clip and reconnect the wires with new connectors. Lastly, reinstall the top housing. I found a 12' black extention cord that matches the male connector in case I need to switch bases.

I, too, purchased the 693PK about 1-2 years ago and just now found a need that required the stability & control a D-handle typically affords. Although I think this base is a tad expensive (...), it works flawlessly with the PC system. As for the extra cord the motor has, I just bundled it up with a twisty-tie (I think I used the one that bundled up the D-hanlde's cord!) and it seems fine for me. One could "rewire" the PC's motor with appropriately-sexed plugs to help elimnate the excess...it is not difficult.

I purchased the D-handle to go with my 6090LR router and had the same "long cord challenge" that the other reviewers had. After reading the reviews I did the reverse of what Mark did by just cutting the line cord to 17" and installing a new plug. This is because my plastic housing was not easy (for my router) to remove.
A quick trip to the hardware store and the purchase of a 15A plug I was all set. I cut off the excess cord and then stripped the open ends to double check it with my meter. Yes, the black was hot, white common and green ground (of course). Just making sure and it works fine.
This D-handle is one of the best ways to increase your stability and comfort when using your PC router. Highly recommended! you can also position the knob for right and left handed operators.
After shortening the cord I can't find anything wrong with it at all.
This was a fine addition.

The D handle base is the SAFEST and most convenient base for PC routers.

I bought this to eventually use with a dovetail jig. Since I already have a PC 690 combo set, it was a good way to get a D-handle without having to get a second motor.

Recently took advantage of a Porter Cable combo set--buy their biscuit joiner and get their 1 3/4 HP classic router free. Good buy. Had one of these routers years ago, gave it to my son and have missed it ever since. Problem is it came with a standard two-handled base. Outfitted the router with this D-handle-- which offers great control. Only problem is the router has a long cord which has to be bundled up when using the D-handle to keep the cord out of the way. Pricey but worth it.