Dewalt just announced the launch of a new compact router designed to combine power, ease of use and ergonomics to provide high visibility, control, and performance. These new routers are said to merge the ergonomic features and size of trim routers with the power of full-size routers to deliver both performance and jobsite versatility.
The compact router will be available as a fixed base unit (DWP611) and a combination kit that uncludes both fixed and plunge bases (DW611PK). Dewalt’s new spindle has a 1-1/4 peak HP motor which offers more power than its competitors’ 3/4 and 1 HP compact trim routers.
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Notable Features
- Variable speed control
- Electronic speed control to maintain speed under load
- Soft-start to reduce torque at start-up
- All-metal motor can
- Extended 1/4″ router collet for greater bit-gripping surface area and less vibration
- Dual LEDS for ample work surface ullumination
- Low countoured grip close to work surface for improved control, leading to improved precision & productivity
- Spindle lock with a large each-reach button and 12 motor shaft detents for quick bit changes
Fixed-Base Features
- Adjustable ring with an intuitive depth adjustment
- Flared base arch provides point of reference for user’s hand
- D-shaped sub-base for stability and flatness when running edge profiles
- Just over 4 lbs
Plunge-Base Features
- Clear depth scale and marker
- 5-step adjustable turret stop for accurate and consistent stepped cuts
- 6lbs, including motor
Pricing & Availability
The fixed base compact router kti (DWP611) is expected to be priced at $139, and the 2-base kit (DW611PK) $199.
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Compatible Accessories
- Dust adaptor for the fixed base (DNP615)
- Dust extractor for the plunge base (DNP616)
- Straight edge guide for the fixed base (DNP618)
- Straight edge and circle cutting guide for the plunge base (DW6913)
- Template guides (DW6188)
A Few Comments
At 1-1/4 peak HP, this router does approach the power of some full-size routers. However, most [serious] full-size woodworking routers provide 1-3/4 HP – 2-1/4″ HP power or more. This new offering by Dewalt does to be very look promising as a trim, compact or casual router, but it still lack the power and 1/2″ collet found in full-size routers.
From its features and specs, it looks like Dewalt’s new compact routers will be a hit with contractors. The fixed base should suffice for most light and medium duty jobsite routing applications, and the plunge base will be handy for interior cuts such as flutes, inlays, and mortises.
As far as we’re aware, there aren’t any other contractor-grade compact plunge routers on the market aside from the MLCS 3-in-1 Marvel router, which is more aimed at woodworking enthusiasts and DIYers.
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fred
As you say this should fill a niche – and we may try one out for some countertop work. There seems to be a trend to adding dust collection – and for jobsite work – customers are becomming more and more aware that contractors who use dust control strategies are to be preferred. There also seems to be a trend toward introducing lower-powered routers to fit the task at hand – but it doesn’t always work. A an example, our most recent Betterley Cove cutter sports a PC 3-1/4HP motor and it provides much better results than earlier models that were lower powered. We’ll see how this Dewalt stacks up to our Bosch Colts – which are our go-to jobsite trimmers.
Stuart
Fred, if you try these new routers out, please let us know how they work out for you!