Features

• One year limited warranty
• 7,500 watts continuous, 10,750 watts surge for high power demands
• 13 HP Briggs & Stratton Vanguard and brushless generator for less down time
• Idle control switch and low-oil protection
• Wheel kit and fully welded frame make transport a breeze

Reviews (4)

DOA
I received this generator from Amazon, prepared it per the included instructions, cranked it up, and immediately realized that it has two big problems: Voltage is only 107V, and it started making a gawdaful screeching sound after running for about 60 seconds. Screeching seems to be coming from the genset itself (not the engine), possibly indicating a bad bearing in the generator. Not good!

The fact that it made it out of the factory in this condition tells me that Porter Cable is doing a poor job of Quality Assurance. Also since I bought it from Amazon rather than a local retailer, I obviously can't take it back to the store for an exchange...I am forced to lug this heavy thing to the nearest factory service center. In retrospect, I might have been better off buying it locally.

Watch Porter Cables product descriptions for Generators
Even though it doesn't have all the features that they advertise, it is a good generator. They advertised it as having an hour meter and full power switch. It has neither. I did a lot of research, (weeks) on different generator features before purchasing this one. So when I did get it and it didn't have all the features that it was supposed to, I was disappointed.
But, If you're looking for using primarily 120 volts, this is the one for you. It has (2) 20 amp GFCI duplexes- (four grounded plug-ins) Plus it has a Nema L5-30 amp 120 volt plug-in. I purchased a 10 gauge extension cord that plugs in to the L5-30 Nema and on the other end it has 2 duplexes. This gives me 8 grounded plug-ins. total. Of course you still can't go over the 62.5 maximum constant rated amps while doing so. It does have a large surge rating of 10,750 watts, 89 amps for motor starting power
The engine started on the first pull as it should, and ran great. The Vanguard engine is supposed to be Briggs & Stratton's best engine. The Idle control works great too.
I would recommend downloading the PDF manual on any generator before purchasing. And then carefully compare all the features to their advertisement. I noticed many advertising mistakes on a lot of different generators out there.
Comparing power to price, this generator is hard to beat!

If you are looking for value...
This is your generator. Noise signature is more than tolerable although I agree with the previous poster - I wouldn't want any of these things outside my bedroom window. The compression release makes for a very easy pull if you don't have electric starter connected.

A "REAL" generator
There are lots of generators out there, and deciding on which to purchase can be complicated. I based my decision on getting one larger than I thought I would need so that it would not spend its life stressed to its limit. Although I had to purchase this generator elsewhere (...) and I ended up paying more for it, I am glad I did finally get it.

I suggest that you have some assistance on hand to get the VERY heavy box into your garage to set it up. Assembly took me about an hour or so, so you should be up and running in a short time. The only problem I had were the holes in the frame for mounting the rear legs were not tapped and the supplied bolts were not self-tapping (or at least to say that they were not very good at it- ther tips being quite large with no relief slot in them to cut the metal), so I had to use a 1/4 x 20 tap to create the threads before inserting the bolts. If you don't have a tap you could easily replace the bolts with some better self-tapping bolts- they are 1/4 x 20 x 1" I think.

The Vanguard motor is made in Japan and seems to be a very high quality item. Once filled with oil and fueled up it started the first time on the second or third pull adnran smoothly after about a five minute warm up in cold weather (mid- 40's F.). Pulling on the starter rope seemed quite easy and I suspect that this motor has some sort of compression relief. For anyone of average strength, I think that the starting battery would only be needed in very cold weather.

Although I would not want it running next to my bedroom all night, it does run quite a bit quieter than a lot of other generators I have heard.

Be aware that most localities require a special set up if you want to power an entire home with a generator. This special switch box is not included and it needs to be wired by a qualified electrician. If you just run some heavy extension cords to the generator, then this is not necessary. This means that to power a water well or other 220 equipment like central air conditioners the box will be necessary.

To test it, once it had warmed up, I had the idle control on (low idle speed engaged) and plugged in my portable circular saw. I hit the trigger on the saw and the generator immediately came up in RPM and the saw went to full power as if it were plugged into the wall.

Be aware that when using voltage sensitive devices and light loads like an incandescent light or two, the idle control has to be off as the generator cannot sense these small loads and will not come up to a power-prodicing RPM. My trouble light would not do anything but glow dimly at the low idle speed.

This thing is large and has a huge alternator in it. With a 10,500 watt surge rating it should handle most all your needs- maybe not all at once, but for most households this is going to be a real handy tool to have around when the lights go out.

BTW- The motor and the alternator section each have a 2 year warranty! At this price I found nothing to compare to the BS750. ... Read more

Features

• Additional features: tool-free adjustable depth of drive, nail lock out mechanism, tool-free adjustable exhaust, ¼¿ air fitting, removable non-marring nose tip
• Uses standard 30-34 degree 2" to 3-1/2" x .113" to .131" plastic collated clipped head framing nails.
• Delivers twice the life over previous tools
• Power to drive nails (up to 3-1/2" x .131") into engineered lumber
• Selectable trigger restrictive or contact actuation mode

Amazon.com Review

Tool nirvana--an entire workshop in a box! There's no craftsman on the planet who doesn't want this quad pack. What's not to love? A full 19.2 volts of power will do away with fasteners as if you had a jackhammer in your hand, and 470 inch-pounds of torque provides all the drive power you'll need. Because of the two-speed gearbox, you've got drill speed ranges of 0 to 500 rpm and 0 to 1,500 rpm. Its 1/2-inch chuck is keyless, and the 20-position clutch takes care of drilling into all kinds of material. The Saw Boss 6-inch circular saw is powered by the same workhorse 19.2-volt battery--you'll need a break long before your battery will. And at 2,600 rpm, the premium 6-inch thin-kerf, carbide-tipped blade will have you making 100 crosscuts on two-by-fours on a single charge, so you may even be done before you need that break. The new cordless Tiger Saw has an ingenious, tight design that's perfect for cutting into drywall between studs. And blade changes are quick and easy because of the keyless blade clamp. The cherry on top is the powerful flashlight that sits on a stable base, allowing the pivoting head to light up your workpiece. All four tools are run by the interchangeable 19.2-volt batteries. The package includes two batteries, an interchangeable handle grip for all hand sizes, an advanced diagnostic charger, and a carrying case. --Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• 1-year warranty/30 day performance certification
• 2 19.2-volt amp hour batteries
• Interchangeable Grip to Fit handle inserts
• Hammer drill: 390 in./lbs. of torque, 0-1,500 rpm, Tiger Sa: 1 inch stroke, variable speed 0-2,900 strokes per minute
• Circular saw: cuts 2x lumber in 1 pass at 45 degrees

Reviews (4)

The Ultimate Test
I bought both the Dewalt 18 volt combo pack and the Porter-Cable 19.2 volt combo pack. I also purchased 4 2X6 to test the two combo kits on. I used a 1 inch drill bit for both.
The Dewalt made 39 holes. While my Porter-Cable combo pack was coming in, I decided to test my 2-year-old Porter-Cable 14 volt hammer drill. It made an astounding 28 holes. I immediatly returned the Dewalt to the store because the Porter-Cable only made 11 holes less. The new, 19.2 Porter-Cable Drill made a whopping 60 holes, 21 more then the new Dewalt drill.

Another winner from PC
Porter Cable produces very high quality wood working tools and keeps me coming back for more. However, I was dissapointed to end up with a combo-pack with missing parts. The base insert and mounting knob for the circular saw were missing. PC customer service is difficult to reach for most people that work during the day. I've also noticed that even the most essential items that should be included with their tools are always accesories and must be purchased seperately. Case in point is the rip fence for their circular saws. A rip fence is an item that is standard equipment with most other saws. I buy PC because of the high quality, but I think the price warrants PC including basic equipment in their kits. And there should be something simpler in the line of customer service. Porter Cable products are going to be used primarily by profesionals, and I can't imagine these people having to take time out of their productive day to sit on hold for customer service. That's the extent of my critique.
All in all, Porter Cable makes truly GREAT tools and I highly recommend them.

THE BEST TOOLS I HAVE EVER USED
UNLIKE DEWALT THE TOOLS ARE THE MOST POWERFUL ON THE MARKET AND MAYBE THE BATTERY DOESN'T LAST BUT AT LEAST IS CUTS THROUGH ANYTHING THE TIGER SAW IS THE FASTEST RECIPRICATING SAW IN THE WORLD INCLUDING THE CORDED ONES. THE DRILL WITH ITS HAMMER CRUSHES AND DRILLS WITH EASE. ONE POINT I WOULD LIKE TO MAKE DEWALT DOES MAKE BETTER RECIPICATING BLADES THAN PORTER AND FOR THE CIRCULAR SAW USE ONLY THE BEST DEABLO BLADES FROM ANY HOME INPROVEMENT STORE.THE BATTERY BUTTONS DONT GET STUCK OR BROKENT LIKE DEWALTS BUT DO TAKE A SHORT WHILE TO GET USED TO. IT IS AND AWSOME TOOL THAT IS WHY IT IS USED IN THE NEW YANKEE WORKSHOP AND MY CABNINTRY AND FURNITURE MAKING.

runs out of gas
i truly enjoy these tools yet i am surprised by how fast the batteries quit.I also have an 18v DeWalt kit that lasts much longer and is 3 yrs. older. the Dewalt batteries also charge faster. also, i cannot find a simple replacement bulb for the porter cable flashlight for over a year now, rendering it useless. if you buy this tool, buy extra batteries and bulbs, otherwise, all is well ... Read more

Features

• Includes unit, detector, target, glasses, rod bracket, and kitbox
• Self-leveling for level applications; manually leveled for plumb applications
• Three operational modes: dot, line scan, and spin
• Operating range up to 300' with detector. Accuracy: Level +/- 1/8" over 100' Plumb +/- 1/4" over 100'
• On the jobsite recalibration

Amazon.com Review

If Porter-Cable asked us, we'd tell them to rename thisworkhorse, because calling it just a finishing sander doesn't do itjustice. Of course, it does a remarkable job at higher grits as afinishing sander, leaving no swirl marks. But stick an adhesive 80 griton this puppy, and you also have an aggressive stock remover. Thereason a random orbit sander, and this one in particular, is such agreat choice is because instead of simply rotating, the round head alsojiggles--to use a highly technical term--eliminating thosedisappointing swirl marks, which seem to only show their ugly selvesafter the finish has been applied. But Porter-Cable's Quicksand hasreally captured our fancy because of its power. The dust-collectionsystem on the Quicksand receives a gold star from us. It's compact andout of the way, but more importantly, it's efficient. Five holes in thehead and adhesive discs draw sawdust up into the collection cup. Thecollection canister on this model hangs on tight even in hard suctioncircumstances, and doesn't want to pop off the way canisters on somesanders do. There's also a pad control feature that slows the 12,000rpm to 400 or fewer when the user lifts the head away from the worksurface, reducing the risk of gouging. The tool is comfortable to holdeither at the top or around the housing--when doing a big job, switchbetween the two positions and you shouldn't feel any fatigue. Finally,for people trying to decide between this model and Porter-Cable's 333sander, the only real difference is in what type of sanding discs theyuse. This model uses adhesive-backed sanding discs, and the model 333uses hook and loop discs. Other than that, they're essentially the samemachine, and whichever you prefer, we think you'll be happy with theresults. --Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• Pad control feature prevents gouges and swirl marks
• 100% Ball bearing construction for durability
• Aggressive sanding action for fast material removal
• Hard shell dust canister locks on tight
• 3/32-inch orbit with 12,000 opm provides a smooth finish

Reviews (1)

Where is the sand paper
After reading reviews on the poor quality of the hook and loop model 333, I settled on the adhesives back model 334. The local hardware store and the home depot don't carry the 5" 5 whole paper. The only place to buy the sanding disk is here on amazon.com. Porter cable didn't supply a device for punching holes in the whole less paper. I guess I could by a paper whole punch and make my own holes. To do again I would by the model that uses standard ¼ sheet paper and the unit also comes with a paper punch. The manufacture recommends not to leave the paper stuck to the pad for long periods of time. You can't take the same disk on and off to many times. The best part of this model is the suction created from the spinning for the dust collection. ... Read more

Features

• Three Year Warranty
• High-pressure technology provides more usable air for longer run time
• 7 hp induction motor for efficient operation
• Oil-lubricated pump with aluminum body and cast iron cylinders for heat dissipation and durability
• 80-gallon tank supports heavy-duty, continuous use of multiple tools

Amazon.com Review

Designed for home woodworkers and serious hobbyists, Porter-Cable'sorbital palm sander is a great tool for quick-finish sanding tasks such assanding between coats of paint or preparing a surface for stain. The square padlets you access corners easily, and because the paper folds up and over thepad's edges, you won't mar any perpendicular surfaces you might bump into whenworking in tight spaces. Clamp levers secure the sheets in place, and the sanderworks with either regular sandpaper or self-adhesive sheets.

This sander comes with a hard-plastic canister reinforced with extra rubberO-rings, ensuring that the canister won't pop off--a problem with early versionsof the tool. It's a smart design, and makes for easy, no-mess dust collection.It's much, much better than the common alternatives--cloth bags that seep orpaper bags that can tear. A handy punch plate for making dust-collection holesin the sandpaper is included. This is a pretty smooth-operating sander, withfairly minimal vibration, but if you're planning big projects that will requirea lot of finish sanding, you might want to consider a more expensiveprofessional unit with a heftier construction and less vibration. --JonGroebner ... Read more

Features

• One-year warranty/30-day performance certification
• Powerful sanding action
• 14,000 orbits/minute
• Unique "Sandtrap" hard dust collection canister
• 100% ball-bearing construction

Reviews (15)

reliable and easy to use
In retrospect, I'm not sure why I bought this sander. It is meant to be used as a finish sander to sand between coats of paint, varnish, etc. or in preparation of painting. For large areas it works well in this regard. However, for smaller jobs, it is easier to simply sand by hand rather than get this tool out, load it with paper, and punch dust collection holes in it. I prefer my 6 inch random orbit sander because it can be used for more aggressive sanding as well as finish sanding. The only advantages of this tool are its lighter weight and ability to sand in corners. If you wish to own just one sander, then I would get a random orbit type.

Good sander for the price, but not great.
I'm a home hobbyist woodworker. I've had this sander for about 3-4 years. I like the clips that hold the paper in place. I've never had a problem with the paper sheets coming loose. I like the fact that you can buy cheaper full sheets of paper and cut them into quarters to use. The stand/hole punching device it pretty useful, you just need to keep track of where you put it last. The built-in dust collection doesn't work, so I took mine off and just let the dust blow all over the place. At least the sander pulls the dust away from the sheet, so the paper doesn't clog as quickly as it would without the dust collection. The sander is not very aggressive, so it takes a while to sand anything well. It still runs well after a few years of relatively light use. The price is good, and it's an ok sander for the price, it's just not professional grade.

Terrible product
Sander leaves swirles. Harder to insert new paper than most - in my old Mikita I could do it with 1 hand - this takes 3. Dust collector is hard and therefore restricts sander positioning.

Not Bad
I've owned this sander for a couple years now. It's not too bad. In my experience, it clips the sandpaper very well. The dust collector is ok...but not all that. Just a guess, but I'll say, it collects about half of the dust it sands off. That was one of the main reasons why I purchased it. I don't like the hard plastic collector either, since it tends to get in the way sometimes. It's definately great for drywall, since drywall sands easy.
The case that comes with the sander [could be better] IMO. It leaves little room for the cord and I find myself having to force it close most of the time. Maybe I'm rushing, but that's what I noticed. Great price on this little sander though. It's very dependable and has served me well.

I, like the other guy noted, prefer a random orbital sander for most of my sanding needs. It just takes off a lot more, a lot quicker (I have the DeWalt DW421 for that).

Great Sander for Professional and Home Use
My husband bought the sander a few years ago. We own our own Painting company. The sander was not used a whole lot the first couple years, but used on the job site here and there. This last summer we got 2 jobs, one was sanding cypress walls and staircase before final finish, this took about 1 week of constant sanding and the other job was finishing/refinishing trim and doors in a house. Let me tell you this sander was used almost 8 hours per day steadily every day for about 2 months and it worked unfailingly and flawlessly!! Not even mentioning that the thing was dropped countless times and continues to work perfectly.

I have only small problem with the sander; this being the high profile of the sander, when sanding the staircase, I had trouble getting the sander in between the spindles of the railing. There, as far as I know is not a palm sander out there that has a lower profile so, even if it was 1/2 inch lower it would be wonderful.

I noticed that another review made a comment about losing the paper punch form that comes with the machine to collet the dust, which works well in any case, the best way to take care of not being able to find it, is to tie it to the cord. You will always be able to find the form and have it where you need it!...

I can't see any reason why this machine could not be used for professional use! ... Read more

Features

• One-year warranty
• High-pressure technology provides the equivalent of a 32-gallon air supply
• Tank pressure is maintained between 110 and 135 PSI for more usable air
• High-flow regulator for more efficient operation of pneumatic tools
• Provides 8.6 SCFM at 40 PSI and 6.8 SCFM at 90 PSI

Reviews (7)

WARNING - Amazon's "free" shipping SUCKS!
Note the fine print in amazon's shipping policy:

" It will be delivered to your address but not UNLOADED, unpacked, or assembled. "

This means YOU will be responsible for getting the item OFF THE TRUCK when it is delivered to your home. That's over 4 feet off the ground. And yes, the truck will not have a lift gate--that costs more. So, they offer "free shipping", not "free delivery." Buyer beware!

Great Compressor for Average Woodworker
I held off on this review because a had to get a replacement. The first one was pretty banged up in shipment. I believe the reason for this is do to insufficient packing. The unit is not bolted to the pallet and only held on with 2 plastic bands. This wouldn't be a problem, but the unit is top heavy. The 2nd unit I received arrived in good shape, but I had had my fingers crossed. The styrofoam was pretty shattered. The setup was smooth except for trying to line up the holes to get the wire piece in that holds the handle in place--a minor design problem. Man, this puppy is quiet--especially compared to my little Emglo 1.5hp. It runs smooth and doesn't cycle on very often when driving nails. I would have given 5 stars except for the packing problem. It seems like it's just what I wanted since I need something that is an all-around machine. I need it for nailing, spraying, and other small jobs. I also needed something portable to work around the house replacing siding, etc.. Amazon was very nice and understanding in making the replacement. I do have to crate up the 1st one and send it back, but that's just the way the cookie crumbles.

Quiet, powerful with a manageable size!
I have a small shop (our two car garage) and I am very sensitive to noise. So, you can guess, that my two top priorities were a quiet unit that I could operate in the shop while I was working, yet powerful enough to drive my wide range of pneumatic tools. If you have the same requirements, you are reading about your dream compressor. This unit is smooth and powerful Once again PC has delivered a nice piece of engineering. I have placed it in my shop under a table that I do most of my assembly and work. It kicks on and burrs for a few seconds and goes to sleep for a long period while I am firing nails or something. I measured the noise level while it was running and it is well within the range. I just love this compressor!

Quiet with plenty of power
I have a small shop and was looking for a quiet compressor, portable, with a large enough capacity to handle a variety of tasks. I had an old sears 220v compressor that was very quiet that finally gave up the ghost. I borrowed a relatives compressor that was so loud that I couldn't stand it any longer. After reading other reviews I purchased the CPL6025 and it's everything I hoped for. Highly recommend it for someone with the same needs as me.

Great Compressor!!
I use this compressor in a wood shop and it provides enough air pressure for all my needs. It is also quiet, but fills the tank very fast. The output pressure valve is convenient and easy to use so you don't have to spend a lot of time trying to set the proper air pressure for the tool you are using. The 6025 is also great because of its portability. All in all, this is a great compressor that can handle a large variety of jobs... p.s. Be sure to read manual before operating the machine it offers very good advice that should be followed.. ... Read more

Features

• Includes 1 year limited warranty on parts and accessories
• 3,500 rated watts, 7,500 surge watts
• 6.5 HP Honda GX200 OHV engine
• 4 gallon tank provides 11.6 hours of run time at half load and 7.8 hours at full load
• Small frame for compact storage

Amazon.com Review

Here's a great choice for the serious woodworker, whether in freehand applications or mounted in a table. Porter-Cable took a second look at their popular 7529, 2-horsepower plunge router, and thus came the 8529. The name's not the only thing that's changed though. An above-the-table adjustment system works with a hex-shaped dial that reaches through your router table top and allows for adjustments as precise as 1/128 of an inch. A badly designed power switch has been replaced with a smart toggle switch, positioned just where it ought to be. We like the unique depth-stop mechanism, accessible without even taking your hands off the handles. For all its power, it's relatively quiet in a world of ear-piercing routers, another reason it's popular with home woodworkers. Two collets give you the choice of 1/2-inch or 1/4-inch bits, and the 2-horsepower motor won't whine no matter what you're routing. The body rides smoothly on the tubes, and ergonomically, it's a dream. Chip collection is good, too. This baby will meet all your routing needs. --Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• Highly adjustable and precise
• Floating measurement guide references mark on a table top to adjust to 1/128"
• Auxiliary handle inserts through 3/8"
• Dust collection prevents dust and chips from falling into router
• Low noise and vibration

Reviews (7)

A Top Notch Router - Especially Good in a Router Table
When I decided that my old Craftsman 1/2 horsepower router wasn't meeting my needs any longer, I started shopping for a router principally to be used in a router table. Ideally, I wanted a setup to provide the functionality of the "router lift" systems, but preferably without the high cost. Not discounting the fact that I'd sometimes be using it outside of the router table, I also wanted the ability to precisely set the depth of cut. After doing a lot of research and selecting the 8529, I'm pleased to say that this router has turned out to be that ideal solution.

The 8529 has a very precise depth control adjustment. This is nice when working with the router freehand, because you can very accurately set your depth of cut, but where it really shines is when you have the router suspended under a router table. Using Porter-Cable's special long-shafted wrench, you can reach through the top of the router table and adjust the bit depth from above. This is accomplished by drilling a hole in the router mounting plate that aligns with one of the support columns. The support column is open on the bottom (the top with the router suspended upside down under the table) and has an internal adjustment screw that the special wrench mates with. A template is supplied in the owner's manual to help you position this hole in the mounting plate.

While the wrench itself has a friction-fit, sliding scale that you can use to accurately make precise adjustments to the bit height, I purchased digital readout from Rockler (www.rockler.com) that mounts to the 8529. The readout sits above the router table and provides readings in 1/64 inch increments as you adjust the bit height. It connects to the router by temporarily removing the normal height adjustment knob and mounting its sensor in its place (very easy to do). While probably not absolutely necessary since the Porter-Cable wrench provides its own adjustment scale, the digital readout provides some very nice functionality. For example, I can put a chunk of picture frame molding I've made in the past on the table, bring the bit up to meet the sample at what will be the finished height, zero the digital meter, and then lower the bit back into the table, letting the meter readings go negative in 1/64 inch increments. Then I start making passes with my lumber, bringing the bit up a little at a time until it hits the zero reading again. This gives me absolutely perfect replication every time.

This router is powerful, and the variable speed control is useful when I chuck up those larger bits to cut the picture frame profiles. The On/Off toggle switch is located so that you can easily flip it with the index finger of your right hand (assuming you are using the router freehand). The chuck is wonderful; unlike with my old Craftsman router, I haven't had a bit get stuck in it yet.

There was one little problem initially. When I got the router home and took it out of the box, the plunge mechanism was sticky. It just refused to smoothly slide up and down. But I put some graphite on the support columns, and after working it up and down some number of times, it started functioning nicely.

I cannot say enough nice things about the 8529. It's a wonderful piece of equipment, and if you're looking for something to use with a router table, this is the one.

I've owned a 7529 for a couple of years now and...
it sounds like PC has addressed one of my complaints with this updated version. The old one had a ridiculous switch that was hard to use and has broken on mine. Other than the switch and above-the-table adjustments (now they think of it!), it looks to be the same machine, so I think my review is worthwhile. I disagree with the other reviewer about the plunge mechanism being stiff to operate, I think it works great and it locks securely. The depth fine tuning does take many turns, but I think that's the idea and it works. The one-tool bit changing is great, as is having 1/2 and 1/4" collets. The edge guide is well designed. My absolute favorite feature is the dust collection. It really works and makes non-through plunge cuts much easier because it keeps sawdust out of the groove if making multiple passes. I do have some complaints. As mentioned above, the switch on the old version was a poor design--doesn't matter now. The motor is a little wimpier than my Bosch 1619EVS, but adequate. The template guide holder requires a screwdriver and you have to eyeball it to center it--as another reviewer mentioned, this is not good if accuracy is a must. On the other hand, the PC style template guides are much nicer than the stamped sheet metal ones that Bosch uses, though Bosch has a better (tool free) system for installing the template guide. Lastly, the depth stop on this router is more elegant than the one on the Bosch, although the Bosch has a nice feature for stepping the depth down in fixed increments.

My recommendation for those in the market for a router is to limit your search to those with dust collection--it's worth it. I think the new PC 895PK looks more promising than this unit. I've never used the Dewalt, but it has some nice features as well. Although I have had multiple problems with the durability of Bosch tools, they make a great router, but they need to design a new unit with real dust collection, so I wouldn't consider Bosch for now.

I'm trying to like it...
After two years, I'm still trying to like this router but I have mixed emotions. The variable speed, the large hole in the base, the soft start, the dual on/off switches are all nice. And...the top woodworking magazines recommended it. But, it's top heavy and awkward, the base is relatively small compared to the size of the router, the plunge mechanism is "sticky" in its midrange, the fine adjustment is complicated to use, and the two-stage switch on the handle is difficult to engage. Also, with the small base and large hole, there isn't much base plate left to ride on the work piece when it's being used for handheld work. Coupled with the top-heaviness, this makes it extremely unstable and wobbly, especially at corners. Overall, it's a good router for the router table but not my preference for handheld work.
UPDATE: My review is for the 7529 model. Apparently, Porter Cable addressed some of the concerns noted during the model upgrade.

Everything is a trade off, this router bats a 1000
How do you make a router that is just as good under the table as above? You do what Porter Cable did in this router. The problem with under the table use is that trying to plunge a spring upside down results in lifting the table. Bosch did a good job with their 1619EVS, which has a spring defeat button, and a fine adjust knob. What Porter Cable did was create an adjust knob with the right amount of movement, that works independently of the plunge mechanism. It will only travel within the range of the adjusting knob while plunging. So when you want to do a 2 1/2" plunge, the adjuster should be all the way out. If it is adjusted down one inch, it will only plunge the last 1 1/2" of the plunge range.
Secondly, the challenge is to be able to do an under the table setting, run a sample, then be able to loosen the collet, tweak the adjust knob, and reclamp. The thing to avoid on lesser routers is that when loosening the clamp, it jumps completely away from a setting, so you are continually "gross" setting the adjustment. With the Porter Cable , the adjust knob takes it to your spot, then after the sample cut, you can release the clamp, and it holds your position, so you are able to fine adjust to the desired spot. The advantage the plunge routers have over the fixed base routers is that they have a smooth movement along rails. A fixed base router; for under the table use has a major sleeve the motor rides in, and when loosened tend to shift off axis slightly. Plunge routers ride perfectly smooth in the full plunge range, without any slight off angle at all. I have 7 routers, several Bosch's, Fein, Makita, and two Porter Cables, and this router is one industrial grade piece of equipment. Their 1 3/4HP models are not bad, but not on the level of the 2HP models. It has an industrial quality feel to it. It is super quiet, and runs smoothly. It will cut through 1-inch oak, with a 3/4" rounding over bit without slowing down. Combining the 2hp motor, and smart electronics, lays on just the right amount of power.
It's quiet, smooth, strong, and practical. Has the large base opening so it will accept the popular full size 3 1/2" raised panel bits. Don't let anybody talk you out of this one. It's an award winner. I plan on using mine under the table. No one router has everything over all the other routers out there, but this one comes close. Highly recommended.

One of the best out there
I just bought this router at HD at a awsome deal for 100.00 (managers special) could'nt pass it up. Knowing that it was a very good router anyway and a replacement of the 7529. I have read the reveiws of the 7529 and other routers as well, but didnt know any of the new features of the 8529. When I got it home to really look it over and try it out I was amazed of the feel and the conveinace of the power switch, locking lever and the height adjustments. I would recomend this router to anyone and if you get a good deal like I did that will be even better.
Good luck and happy woodworking.

Sam ... Read more

Features

• 19.2-volt 2.4 Amp-Hour NiCad battery

Features

• Powerful 12.0 amp motor provides 20% more power than before
• Motor is located over platen for maximum performance and perfect balance
• Fingertip belt-tracking knob for quick, accurate belt adjustments
• User-friendly design with ergonomically correct handles

Product Description

4.5A Low/6.5A High, 2 Speed Band Saw Kit, Contains Worm Gear Saw, Cuts 3-3/8" x 4-1/8" Rectangles & 3-3/8" Round Stock, All Aluminum Housing & 100% Ball & Needle Bearings, Uses 44-7/8" Blade, Includes Case, Lube & Bi-Metal Blade. ... Read more

Features

• One year warranty/30-day performance certification
• 120 volt AC/DC motor can be used with generators and welders
• Cuts 3 3/8" x 4 1/8" rectangular
• Worm gear and chain drive
• Two-speeds switch 195 SFPM (low) & 245 SFPM (high)

Reviews (1)

Great Little Band Saw
I purchased a Porter Cable 9725 Porta-Band Saw Kit a few months ago and it has performed well.The compact right angle worm drive keeps the tool compact and quiet. Like most of the older Porter Cable tools the Porta-Band saw is made almost entirely of metal with excellent quality throughout.

The saw cuts cleanly through everything I put it up against. The two-speed feature allows the user to slow the saw down for hard material like tool steels.Porter Cable sells high quality bi-metal replacement blades that cut fast and clean.The supplied cutting lubrication stick really helps speed up the work and extend the life of the saw blade.My only reservation is the omission of a power lock button.When using the saw with the optional stand (the stand comes with a funky spring clamp) or when cutting through large stock a power lock button would be nice. ... Read more

Features

• Covered by Porter-Cable's 1-year limited warranty
• High-torque 2 HP electric pressure washer free of toxic fumes and chemicals
• Totally maintenance free pump and motor no oil or gas required, operates on standard 110-volt 20 amp circuit
• American made DAPC radial pump produces 1,700 psi at 1.7 gallons per minute of cleaning power
• Manufactured of strong steel tubing and equipped with 10-inch pneumatic wheels

Amazon.com Review

This coil framing nailer from Porter-Cable is a rugged, lightweight piece of equipment that will get the job done wherever you need the capacity of a coil system. Its housing is designed to be a light as possible, yet it still offers the durability you expect on a job site. Since coil nailers are commonly used for repetitious tasks, a lighter tool is a big plus--especially if you're going to wield it for an entire eight-hour day. The ergonomic handle and rubber grip are comfortable to hold, even over long periods of time. Features include a quick-click depth-of-drive adjuster; a powerful, high-performance motor with adjustable exhaust; a refined feed mechanism that includes double cams and guides; and quick-adjust support for all nail lengths. This Porter-Cable model accepts standard 15-degree wire-collated coil framing nails from 1-1/2 to 2-1/2 inches long. The kit comes with a 3/8-inch NPT air inlet and 1/4-inch male quick coupler (with dust cover), oil for the nailer, wrenches, and an operating manual. --Jonathon Tudor ... Read more

Features

• One Year Warranty/30 Day Performance Certification
• Uses standard 15 degree coil nails 1-1/2" x .099" to 2-1/2" x .120"
• Depth-of-drive adjustment to match the application
• Removable, non-marring tip protects decking and sheathing
• Adjustable exhaust port to direct air away from operator

Reviews (2)

Great All Purpose Nailer
This is a great all purpose nailer. I have used it for installing wood shingles and strapping and it has worked flawlessly. For strapping it is lighter and has greater nail capacity than a stick framing gun for working overhead. It is lightweight, although not as light as the Hitachi siding gun, but is more versatile. All adjustments are easy, I especially like the depth of drive adjustment wheel (no tools needed) nail size selector and air deflector. My neighbor used it to install strapping in her basement and after a 5 minute demonstration she was all set to go and loved using it. I own many other Porter Cable tools and use them on a daily basis in my contracting business, they all work great. I personally think they make the best sanders around. Part of my decision to own them is that if they ever need service I am less than an hour away from a Porter Cable (Company) store.

Excellent tool!
The PC Coil250 is a great tool. I purchased it to replace the siding on my house. It did the job without a single jam, and has plenty of power to drive 2.5" nails through Hardi (cement-fiber) siding boards and Hardi trim (5/8"+3/4"). The depth of drive adjustment is a very handy feature. ... Read more

Features

• Filter bags for the Porter-Cable 7812 wet/dry vacuum
• 2 ply construction for durability
• 10-gallon capacity
• 3 bags per package

Reviews (1)

Innovative
I bought my Porter Cable vacuum because it is a quality product that PC put some thought into as to what it would be used for. This is also true of something as simple as the bags for the vacuum. They are of a heavier paper then I have seen on other products which should allow them to hold up to the nasty stuff. The other feature which is very simple but VERY useful is the fact that you can seal the bag as soon as you remove it from the vacuum. Typical Porter Cable product, excellent. ... Read more

Features

• One year warranty/30 day performance certification
• For 19.2 Volt tools excluding drill model 9826
• Slide-on design for easy removal and replacement
• Fits Porter-Cable 9884 19.2-volt drill, 9887 hammer drill, 9845 SawBoss and 881 flashlight
• Remember to recycle your old NiCad battery packs

Reviews (9)

poor battery performance
I'm now purchasing the third battery for my Porter Cable 9884. The tool has been fine but the battery life is unacceptable. I just purchased another tool (Makita drill driver and battery life has been much superior).

Will not purchase another Porter Cable cordless tool though I have several other Porter Cable tools.

With a price of $85.00 I expect much higher quality.

Wish Porter Cable / Delta designers read these reviews
I have been loyal to the Delta and Porter Cable brands all my life. My Dad used these tools when he was a young man starting his own business and said they were reliable "good tools"... Good enough for me. I bought the 19.2 volt combo system and have had 2 batteries fail in 2 years or less and I am just a hobbyist. I bought one battery when the first went bad because you really need 2 batteries. I resent having to pay $85 for another battery but have useless tools without them. They really need to do some thing for their loyal users to regain respect. The tools are good the batteries are junk. I had a 12 volt Panasonic unit for over 8 years and used it extensively prior to getting the Porter Cable. I only replaced it because the batteries finally gave out and replacements cost more than what I paid for the whole drill with 2 batteries. I think it's a plot!!!

mediocre performance
I have owned the porter cable combo pack for a couple of years, using it in my construction business. I have had battery performance problems from the begining, particularly with the saws (replaced one charger too) I always felt I was paying the price for getting a good deal on E-bay, although I purchased it new in the box. I came on this site to purchase two new batteries to see if that would solve my problem, but after reading the reviews I am wondering if I should just put that $180.00 toward a new combo set from a different manufacturer. I have always been a Porter-Cable fan but am disappointed with this product. Because of the performance problems, I almost never use the circular or recip saws. Essentially I have a $500.00 hammer drill and flashlight.

Porter Cable batteries
I own the porter cable combo pack with the saw boss, tiger saw, hammer drill and flashlight and two batteries. The batteries seem to get the job done with the drill but with the saws, the life of the charge seems alittle short for what they cost, they do charge fast and have alot of power, but for the moderate user, I recommend a third battery, also take extra precaution with the charger as it is not that tough and a few drops to the floor can damage the fuse, that is sodered in. (extremely bad design) should allow the user to be able to replace the fuse .........note mine is only 6 months old too at the time of this review......chad

Watch out!
I have owned the saw and drill combo for two years. Love the product performance, but I have to replace one battery of the original two and the second looks to go soon. I just came to reality to the replacement cost...Two new batteries for what I can purchase a new Porter Cable 1 3/4 horse router with plunger base.....
Watch out before you buy the 19.2 volt systems..... ... Read more

Amazon.com

There is nothing—-and we do mean nothing—-not to love about this router. Remember the old 690 series? Porter-Cable's taken everything that was good about those machines and brought in all the improvements we all wished they'd make. We were never crazy about having to turn the entire router body to raise and lower it in a table, and voila! The above-the-table adjustment and bit changes are reality. There's a macro adjustment for gross changes, then you fine-tune with the micro knob. Bravo. We were surprised, too, how much quieter this model is than the 690, without sacrificing any power at all. We admit a little skepticism at first about the heralded GripVac handle, but now we must also admit to admiration. It's a smart design that collects dust incredibly efficiently and offers superb control at the same time. And OK, we also admit that it's fun to use.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• Includes one year limited warranty on parts and accessories.
• Powerful 2-1/4 HP, soft start motor, 12 amps
• Variable speed 10-23,000 rpm, Electronic feedback, Table top heght adjustment, handle switch access and spindle lock
• Premium 1/4" and 1/2" self releasing collet system for easy bit removal
• Includes a single GripVAc handle attachment replaces the standard handle

Reviews (1)

This is one sweet router
This thing is SWEET ! The grip-vac handle acts like a new fangled D-handle. There is a coarse adjustment along with a micrometer fine adj. knob. One of the 2 big plus's is that through the router table adj. that can be made with only 1 wrench. Any 3/16" nut driver will work just fine. The second big plus is how QUIET this router is!! At the 16.5K speed no ear muffs were needed. I have a pc690 and it is really loud. The 890 series is remarkably quiet. The slowest setting was extremely quiet where as the highest setting was still quiet when compared to the pc690. The first startup was used with a freud T & G set. And it ripped a 1/4" groove in white oak at the 16K speed setting without a burp. ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

Powered by a burly 15 amp motor, Porter-Cable's new 12-inch compoundmiter saw delivers big cutting capacity--mitering a four-by-four at 45 degreesand beveling a two-by-eight at 90. The saw swivels right and left to 48 degrees,too, letting you make cuts to fit even when the world isn't square.

Simply put, Porter-Cable paid attention to the details. The miter has acom-activated lock--a simple half turn locks the saw in place. The tool also has abig table that gives plenty of support space for workpieces, making it easier tohold them securely in place when cutting. There's an electric brake (all mitersaws should have one), and the blade guard retracts smoothly. The D-handledesign makes the saw comfortable to operate with either your right or left hand,which is convenient considering the wide range of cuts you're likely to make.We especially like how the saw's base can mount on the edge oftwo-by-fours for a quick job site stand. Very slick.

A single onboard wrench makes all the adjustments, including blade changes. Thissaw also comes with an extensive wing and a sliding fence, which give superbmaterial support--a feature trim carpenters will find handy for cutting crownmolding vertically. The fence is easily adjusted, too, in case it gets knockedout of alignment. The fence is also replaceable, so you don't have to get awhole new saw when something goes wrong. It's true, a guy could really raveabout this saw for quite a while. The miter and bevel gauges are great, withembossed marks stamped into stainless steel, so it'll be just as easy to dial inthe exact cut three years into the future as when you first take the tool out ofthe box (no chintzy stickers or attached plates here). The stainless-steeldetents won't ever develop slop, either. Bevels are also easy to set. Thethree-wing screw lock is sturdy and holds tight, and there's good tension in theunlocked position--so the motor is easy to move (it doesn't just flop over) whenyou're setting bevels. --Jon Groebner ... Read more

Features

• Extension wing and sliding fence support longer work pieces
• Heavy-duty 15 amp motor delivers maximum power
• Nine positive stops for cutting common angles
• Cam-lock miter locking system clamps down accurately and fast
• Mounts easily to 2-by-four material for quick job site set-up

Reviews (25)

The Best of the Bunch
I bought this saw last year after a long period of comparison with competing 12-inch saws in this price range. If you examine similar saws from DeWalt, Makita, and Bosch you'll find that they all offer a high level of performance, and all four come in at about the same price (excluding any special one time sales offers you may find). What sold me on this one was the rock solid construction, and what I consider to be a couple well thought out design elements. I really like the way this saw was designed to mount directly on to 2x stock. This allowed me to make a really inexpensive and effective stand out of home made sawhorses. With the saw mounted on my stand, I can attach 2x4s on edge to the stand itself and have instant supports for longer boards. Try setting this up using a pre bought miter saw stand and you'll pay a lot more money. For workshop use this is ideal, and for jobsites--well there's always a couple sawhorses around right? Another feature I really like about this saw is the miter gauge. While the gauge on the DeWalt I saw is printed to a piece of thin sheet metal which is riveted to the saw body, Porter-Cables miter scale is actually embossed steel, so that even if the paint wears off (and eventually it will) I still have my scale. When the paint on the DeWalt scale wears off, you're out of luck. Some people have complained that the table is not level side to side. I've checked mine and found it to be as close to level as the tables on DeWalt and Bosch saws owned by my friends. I've done some really fine work with this saw (using a Freud blade not the one that came stock) and haven't had a problem with accuracy yet. This is not to say that other folks didn't get saws with a less than true table, just that mine is great. In all honesty, I think that the Bosch saw is just as good a choice as this one, and the real reason I chose the Porter-Cable over the Bosch was that the PC was on sale when I was ready to buy, and the Bosch wasn't.

Smoooooth performer....
I bought this puppy after my old stalwart Delta 10" compound fell victim to some grab-n-run doofuss [that's what I get for leaving it alone while I went off for a smoke]. Since then I've given up smoking and replaced the Delta with this sweet baby. I tried out the Delta, Rigid and the Dewalt before settling on the PC. It is quiet, smooth cutting, vibration free and MY extension wings are dead level with the cutting table. It is a thoroughly well designed machine in every way. I've also semi-permanently mounted it to a two-by litter with four foot wings to either side. ... Anyway, this thing melts through SYP or 6/4 oak and slices through 12/4 cypress or doubled up two-by spruce like they were made of air. A lot of this is attributable to the fabulous blade that came with the machine. Also, the bevel gauge on the PC has clear fine hash marks permanently imprinted on a strip of bright metal riveted in place and a full width adjustable indicator. Some of the others use a sticker!?!?! Go figure. And lastly, when the head is locked down, there's a carry handle smack over the balance point. A really nice touch.

Enough already, I've got sawdust to make. Thank you Porter-Cable.

Solid, accurate, heavy as hell!
I bought this saw about a year and a half ago from Amazon. This saw is a well built, solid piece of equipment. Mine came very well adjusted out of the box- only a few minutes worth of adjusting was needed. My big surprise was that the work clamp was not included. I have been unable to find a local store or online dealer that carries the clamp either. No big deal to special order one, but it's a pain. The manual mentions it but as I remember there is no item number mentioned so it's kind of difficult to make sure you are ordering the right part from an online dealer, etc. As far as jobsite use- it is very heavy, kind of bulky and lugging it around can get old. The base is very convenient for setting up on 2X4s, and the manual includes plans for a slick saw table made from 2X4s for cutting longer pieces. Very handy indeed! Everything about this saw is solid, no flimsy handles or guards, no rattling parts, thus the heavy weight. Small tradeoff, I'll put up with the extra weight. While I use mine mostly for framing I agree with the previous review that the blade is unacceptable for any kind of finish cuts. Update the blade and you've got a winner. Better yet, wait a month and get the laser version for an additional $... Hmm, wonder if the laser parts are backward compatible? Four stars because no clamp and less than "premium" blade.

UPDATE: I thought I would add that unless you are careful about banging into doorways, etc while carrying this thing around, the cast frame is prone to bending/breaking. While carrying the saw I banged one of the legs into a door frame when a heavy wind blew a door into me and knocked me off balance. The result is that one of the legs got tweaked a bit. It's still completely usable, but the cast aluminum is a bit brittle, any harder of a hit and the leg would have snapped off.

Framing machine
I have had a Porter Cable 3802 CMS for around one year now. I have used it mostly for rough cuts and framing. The stock blade is good for framing but way to course for detail/finish work. This saw is probably the heaviest in its class at something like 70 pounds. That alone makes it a bit difficult to manage on a jobsite, but once in place it is great. A heavy saw is not a bad thing (once in place) as it greatly reduces vibration, making cuts a bit better and more repeatable. The D-Handle is a wonderful upgrade to the older straight handle CMS's - much more comfortable and safer it seems. The saw is 12" so, as you can expect, the blade can walk a small amount as it passes through the wood. That said, if you cut through something really fast (as I know I have) you are left with a no-so-perfect cut. As a compensation, I have found it beneficial when doing detail work to let the saw reach full rpm and cut slowly - you will be happy with the results. Many folks have commented on the setup/trueing. My saw was a bit off when I received it, but it is fairly simple to true up...and if you are much like me, you will periodically check to make sure things haven't gotten "bumped" out of alignment, anyway. The saw has served me well. I didn't give it 5 stars, but I would buy it (or the Delta equivalent) again.

Nice saw, not perfect
I bought this saw for an incredible deal at my local membership warehouse, but was disappointed to find that the clamp that is recommend several times in the manual did not come with the saw. I emailed Porter Cable and they gave me the telephone number for their direct order line. I could not find the clamp on the internet from any sources, even Amazon!

The real problem with this saw and the reason I only gave it 4 stars is despite being relatively accurate on miter cuts, with the bevel zeroed at 90 degrees (zero on the scale) once you go to 45 degrees the scale shows that you are slightly past 45 indicating that the scale is not reading accurately through the range. I also noticed in trying to adjust the bevel that the turntable is not flat in the middle but actually slanted down towards the blade on either side of the blade. I did notice the model in the store had the support on the right of the turntable about 1/16th of inch lower as some of the other reviews had suggested, but the saw I bought did not have that problem.

The blade that comes with the saw (40 tooth carbide), while a nice blade, is only good for cutting rough cuts or 2x4s. It is a little too rough for finish carpentry without having a lot of tearout and relatively rough cut surfaces.

Despite my complaints I have practiced with the saw several times and most of the cuts come out very close to perfect. ... Read more

Features

• Powerful 1-3/4 HP 10-amp motor
• New "lever-release" height adjustment
• Easy to use Micrometer depth adjustment
• Complete with case