Most Helpful Customer Reviews
|
|
46 of 46 people found the following review helpful:
3.0 out of 5 stars
Good, but limited, May 13, 2002
I've had my DW625 about a year. I bought it because it was going to be my only router. I wanted a machine that was capable of doing just about everything a router should be capable of. Unfortunately, for me, the router is something of a mixed bag.I am not at all disappointed with the power or handling characteristics considering the size of the machine. The 3hp motor effetely drives large bits. The low centre of gravity makes this big machine relatively easy to handle compared to other 3hp routers and the plunge action is very smooth. The on/off switch is convenient, although a switch which turns the machine off when released would be far safer. The plunge lock mechanism can be somewhat difficult to use for someone with smallish hands (for a guy), but I'm now used to it. The soft start and electronic control means that you don't get that jump when starting up and you get an even cut under varying loads. However, it's use under a router table can be rather frustrating. I have made my own table with a 6mm (~1/4") supported acrylic surface. It's simple and should work well with the 625, especially with the fine adjuster, made for when the router is table mounted. However, even at 6mm the router cannot push the bits high enough at times. This is incredibly frustrating and it's tempting to overextend the bits in the collet, which isn't good for the collet, the bits or for safety. Using a 4mm slot cutter on multiple repeat pieces should be a breeze if you use a table with stops. Unfortunately my bit, of average length, does not extend far enough using the table due to the inadequate travel of the 625. Cutting 24 identical pieces topside then becomes infuriating. I also recently wanted to do some template work. Most template guide adverts, including those shown here, say that the universal 1 3/16" template guides fit DeWalt routers with an adapter. I live in Cape Town and have been in touch with the local dealer and emailed DW in the USA, asking where I can get an adapter. So far, after numerous attempts to get an answer from DW, I have yet to receive a reply from the USA and the importers of DW here cannot get an answer from the UK. Getting good service with courtesy should be a consideration when buying anything. Lack of after-sales service would seriously make me consider options other than DeWalt should I be in market for a new router. Overall I like the DW625, but it has serious limitations with regards to table mounting and using template guides.
|
|
|
63 of 67 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Love the power!, December 2, 2000
Anyone using this router to do hand held plunge routing better have a strong grip! It's powerful. Even with the soft-start technology, the torque is amazing. The dust collection attachment worked great until it broke. I see why it's made of clear plastic, to enable viewing the bit at work, but it sure breaks easily, and I haven't found a glue that will repair it permanently. So, I'm now thinking about adding the 621 - 2hp unit to my collection because of it's built in dust collection system. DeWalt should do something similar to the 625.
|
|
|
19 of 20 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
The BIG DW625- A Gentle Giant, November 5, 2003
Before I committed the $$ to this router, I did a lot of online research. To say the least, there were some mixed feelings out there in cyberspace. The most frequent criticism of the 625 was its weight. "Now, hang on", thought I, "a target rifle is typically quite heavy. The reason for this is stability. Ergo, a heavier router will be inherently more stable, and easier to keep a good handle on, considering its torque!" Was I right (GLOAT!) The soft start really keeps this beast tamed, and I am amazed at how smooth the plunge stroke is. The depth stops and adjustments are easy to use and precise. I really like the infinite speed control, and the ability to change speeds "on the fly" - this keeps burning to a minimum, and, after more experience has been gained, I find that I have eliminated burning altogether (GLOAT # 2).And, this thing has some POWER! I didn't want to rewire it!
The main reason I like that power is from a durability standpoint. I know that this horse is going to give me YEARS of service, which justifies its pricetag. And, because of the torque, the motor is heavily wound and has a stout shaft. Again, DURABILITY! Overall, this is one of the best investments I've made in woodworking "toolage".
|
|
|
Most Recent Customer Reviews
|
