True Precision Routing

Wood routers are powerful and versatile tools that can take your woodworking projects to the next level. Whether you're shaping edges, cutting joinery, or carving decorative details, the right router can make all the difference. But with various types available, choosing the right one can be confusing. Learn about the different types of wood routers, their unique features, and how to select the best tool for your woodworking needs.

Routers are an essential tool for woodworking, and there are several types of routers available, each designed for specific woodworking tasks. Here are a few of the most common types of routers used in woodworking:

Fixed base routers are the most common type of router and are designed for general woodworking tasks. They are mounted in a fixed base and can be adjusted for depth and height, making them ideal for edge trimming, dadoes, and grooves.

Plunge routers are similar to fixed base routers, but they allow you to plunge the router bit into the wood for precise cuts. They are ideal for making stopped cuts, mortises, and inlay work.

Combination routers are a combination of fixed base and plunge routers. They can be used as either a fixed base or a plunge router, making them a versatile choice for a wide range of woodworking tasks.

Trim routers, also known as palm routers, are small and lightweight routers designed for trimming and detailing work. They are ideal for small projects or tasks that require precision and control.

Router tables are another category to consider. Router tables come in three types: benchtop, free-standing, and cabinet style. Benchtop tables are small and portable, while free-standing tables are bigger and more robust. Cabinet router tables are the largest and include a cabinet for added storage.

The best router is the one that works for your preferred projects, level of experience, comfort with tools, space available, portability, and budget.

Wood routers are versatile tools used for a wide range of woodworking tasks. Here are some common uses for wood routers:

Routers can be used to shape and create decorative edges on wooden boards, doors, and frames.

Routers can create joints such as mortises and tenons, dovetails, and box joints. This allows woodworkers to create strong, durable joints without the need for nails or screws.

Routers can be used to create grooves and slots for shelves, drawer bottoms, and other components.

Routers are used to trim and cut wood to size, shape, and pattern.

Routers can be used to create intricate inlay work by cutting a cavity into a wooden surface and fitting a contrasting wood or material into the cavity.

Routers can be used to create designs and patterns by engraving a wooden surface with a router bit.

Routers can be used with templates to create identical copies of shapes and designs.

Whether or not you need a wood router depends on the type of woodworking projects you plan to undertake. If you are interested in creating decorative edges, joinery, or other intricate details on your woodworking projects, then a router can be a very useful tool to have.

However, if you are primarily focused on simple woodworking tasks such as cutting and shaping wood to size, a wood router may not be necessary. In this case, a table saw, circular saw, or other basic woodworking tools may be more appropriate.

When choosing a router for woodworking, consider the type of work you will be doing, the size of the projects you will be working on, and your skill level. Each type of router has its strengths and weaknesses, so it's important to choose the right tool for the job to achieve the best results.