Features

• One-year warranty
• 11.0 amp motor
• 24,000 rpm no load speed
• Electronic speed control
• Soft start for smooth start-ups

Reviews (2)

Excellent Router!!
I bought this router from Amazon.com a couple months ago. Being the first router that I have ever bought, I did a lot of research. After reading many reviews, I decided to go with the Makita RF1100. I liked it because of it's light weight and variable speed settings. Having used it for some time now, it lives up to all of the praise that I read about it. A finish carpenter friend of mine asked to borrow it from me after his died in the middle of a job. He absolutely fell in love with it, and it took over three weeks to get it back from him!! For my money, you can't go wrong with this router.

RF1100 - A Great Tool
After a lot of research on what my first router would be, I decided on the Mak RF1101. However, when I found the RF1100 on special, I decided I could live without variable speed. Compared to the PC 690 (kind of the standard for mid-size fixed base routers) the RF1100 is marginaly more expensive, but it weighs less, is more powerfull, has soft-start, and makes a lot less noise. The RF1100 has worked beautifully in every application I've used it: plowing dadoes, rabbeting, flush triming, triming edging using a shop built baseplate, and rounding over edges

One interesting thing is the fact that the base uses the same bolt pattern as the PC 690. This means that the RF1100 can use sub-bases, router table inserts, and/or template bushings designed for the 690. ... Read more

Features

• Includes fixed base, plunge base, edge guide and wrenches.
• Variable speed control dial for precise speed to match material being cut.
• Electronic Speed Control monitors and maintains rpm under load.
• Soft Start feature for smoother and safer start-ups.
• Exceptionally quiet with a rugged aluminum motor housing.

Amazon.com Review

If your work demands fast, accurate, and precise routing withthe flexibility of a fixed or plunge base, this smooth-starting,smooth-operating Makita router kit is worth a look. Hardwoods,softwoods, plastics--this all-in-one unit holds its own on virtually anyapplication. A surprisingly quiet yet powerful 11 amp,2-1/4-horsepower motor makes it easy to match the tool's speed to thematerial and bit being used, with variable speeds from 8,000 to 24,000rpm. More importantly, the RF1101KIT maintains these speeds under load,ensuring better results. What's more, startups are smooth andconsistent, balance is strong, and switching between the included fixedand plunge bases is a quick and pain-free process. Those who requirepinpoint accuracy will appreciate the fine-tune adjustmentknob--it's sturdy, easy to operate, and helps ensure precise depths onevery plunge cut. Built to handle the toughest demands with exceptionalresults, the Makita RF1101KIT is a solid investment for the seriouswoodworking enthusiast. --Carl Thress ... Read more

Features

• Powerful 2-1/4-horsepower motor transfers quickly from fixed to plunge base
• Comes with 1/4- and 1/2-inch collets to accept large and small bits
• Variable speed control (8,000-24,000 RPM) to match the speed to the materials being cut
• Plunge capacity is 2-19/32 inches--with accurate depth-adjustment knob for fine tuning

Reviews (14)

More than lives up to manufacturer's claims.
The first router I've purchased, although I've used many others before. I was going to buy the Porter Cable 693 with the two bases, but liked the variable speed, increased power, and new technology of this router. Starts up very smoothly and has plenty of power. Comes with a very nice case and all the extras mentioned. Although, I think (dollar amount) is a bit of a stretch for the value of the bits. I was concerned because this was my first Makita purchase (I don't like their blue plastic), but this router doesn't use the same plastic as their other products. Overall, well worth the money and seems very durable.

IMHO: This is one great midsize plunging router.
Some of the features I was looking for in the router:
1) More horsepower than the run of the mill 1½ routers and less than my PC-7518.
2) Plunge ability
3) Light and easy to handle, good grips and balance

Competing products: PC-690, Bosch 1617EVSPK, Dewalt DW610/DW621 series, many others.

[...].

PC-693PK 1½HP - This is a nice machine. Having had experience with the PC7518, I thought that this would be a good choice, but it didn't have a variable speed control. Although the price was one of the least expensive models I reviewed prior to purchasing.

Bosch 1617EVSPK 2HP - This was also a nice machine. It met all of the requirements above and was priced in the middle of the bunch. The Bosch was ¼HP less than the Makita. This was my second choice.

Dewalt DW610 1 1/2 HP/621 2HP- The Dewalt's come in two kits, the fixed base 1 1/2HP and the plunging 2HP models. If they could combine the two, they would have a winning combo. Nice machines, but didn't fulfill all of my requirements.

Makita RF1101KITK 2-1/4 HP -[...] this is an excellent machine, that comes with everything you need, except a router table. Since I already have one, this is no biggie. The kit comes with a fixed base, plunging base, variable speed control, router bit set and at this point you may want to read the manufacturers comments and features. Features I really like:
1) The soft start is excellent. My old craftsman (1 1/2HP) would jerk on start, so you had to make sure you were away from your work or you could nick it.
2) Plunging - This router has a nice plunging base. It's easy to install and setup.
3) Weight and balance - I find this router to be balanced well and it seems to be lighter than it really is.

IMHO: This is one great midsize plunging router. I have been using this machine since Christmas and feel that it was an excellent purchase [...].

No complaints but there are better o
I really shouldn't complain here. This router is powerful and does a great job. The soft start is nice and it comes with a variety of accessories. But I just saw the Dewalt kit that's coming out. It blows the Makita away. The plunge has dust collection built in that is really slick. And it comes with a D-handle. Something I would really like to have. but it looks like Makita only offer their D handle with a motor. Gee I've got one of those already. Plus the Dewalt did better in a recent shoot out in one of the magazines. Cost savings I'm sure. For things like switch placement, and ease of use.

Oh and the bits that come with the 1/2" capable Makita are 1/4". Hold out for the Dewalt.

10 STARS!!!!!!!!
Everywhere I went nothing but the best comments about this router. Now I see why. I previously had a craftsman 1 1/2 hp router. In one word...junk. But this router I could tell was high quality right when I opened the box. The plunge base is great. Easy to use and easy to set up. This set comes with a lot of useful items too. The case is very well designed and holds everything well. Even has extra spots to put bits and template guides. And did I mention quiet! This router makes half the noise of my Craftsman router and the slow start is a great feature as well. The variable speed is also one of the most useful features allowing you to match the speed to the material and bit size. The only thing remotely negative about this set is the switch location. An on off switch closer to the handle would have been better but this was not enough to bring my rating of this router down. Bottom line, if you are a hobby woodworker like me or a professional, this is a great router. you wont be disappointed.

Oh yeah
This is it. I own a router that cost me about [money] and I can't even stand the thought of using it now that I have this one. The motor has plenty of power and I like the way it starts with out a sudden jerk. The router bits that came with it works great for me. They have 1/4 inch shafts and I prefer 1/2 inch but they do work great and seem to be quality made. I wasn't to interested in the case until I got done using the router for the first time and realized that I had a great place to store the router along with the manual, the router wrenches and the accessories including about 10 router bits. This saves me lots of time and if very convenient.

This router is worth the money so instead of wasting [money]like I did just buy this one and you won't regret it. ... Read more

Features

• Limited warranty, 30-day no-risk trial
• 2 horsepower, 10-amp motor
• 26,000 rpm
• 1/4-inch and 1/2-inch precision ground steel collet
• Accurate, simple depth adjustment

Amazon.com Review

Here's the perfect handheld router. Porter-Cable's routers are legendary, and this one lives up to that reputation. It's small, lightweight, and so maneuverable--Porter-Cable's router handles are among our favorites for control and comfort. As with their other fixed-base routers, depth adjustment is achieved with the easy-to-use micrometer ring. (If you're looking for a router to mount in a table, though, this is not the one--try P-C's 9690VSK.) This little gem is the one to use for freehand applications, large workpieces, and furniture. It's powerful but light, compact but hungry, and built for the long haul. It takes 1/4-inch bits. --Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• Accurate micrometer depth adjustment
• 6.5 amp motor for powerful cutting action
• 1/4-inch collet accepts many popular styles of router bits
• Machined aluminum motor housing dissipates heat protecting internal components
• 100% sealed ball bearings for durability

Reviews (2)

A sad loss
Well if Porter Cable have discontinued this router it truly is a sad day. "Little Round Top" has been around for as long as I can remember and I have used mine for millions of tasks over the years with absolutely no problems, issues, or down-time. Original switch, cord and brushes still intact and no sign of wear or tear. Look up the word "reliable" in the dictionary and you will see a picture of this router.

Yes it is wonderful that there are high-powered, variable speed, multi-use routers on the market with a plethora of attachments. But many times you need a small, powerful router bigger than a laminate trimmer and smaller than a plunge router that you can easily handle with one hand. And the fact that the base was interchangeble with the 1 3/4 HP PC router (including the plunge base for it) was an added bonus that I have taken advantage of uncountable times over the years.

Fairwell old friend, hopefully PC won't "replace" you with some piece of junk made in China.

The Energizer bunny of all routers
I came online here to pick up yet another plunge router ( I`ve gone through four in maybe 8 years) and happened across this old friend. 15 years of almost daily use building (professionally) over 750 guitars and other instruments - and, additionally, an almost house full of furniture to boot- and this little pal of mine just keeps going and going. Nary a repair, not a single moment of down time. To top it off, I`ve as yet not needed to change the brushes even. While most P/C tools are usually good this one has been just amazing! If only the plunge routers ( not one a P/C, I might add. Something that`s about to change) had been this good.
PS A home improvement enthusiast. LOL! Not a chance! ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

Porter-Cable's 1-1/2-horsepower router is popular with woodworkers for good reason. It's reliable, powerful, and exceptionally smooth running--not to mention versatile. Although the 690P comes with a two-handle fixed base, the motor is interchangeable with Porter-Cable's excellent plunge base or D-handle base. Both matching bases are available separately for much less than the cost of a new router, and switching bases for different applications is a quick and easy operation.

We really appreciate Porter-Cable's new autorelease collet design, which prevents bits from getting frozen in the machine. It'd be great if Porter-Cable could come up with an alternative to needing two wrenches for a bit change, but this minor inconvenience is far outweighed by the tool's overall quality. In fact, Porter-Cable's focus on simple, quality engineering is the reason for this model's long-lasting success. The router doesn't offer electronic variable-speed control or enough power to effectively double as a shaper, but it is among the smoothest-running routers we've tried, producing consistently clean results. For most applications it offers all the versatility and muscle you could ask for. --Brian Trinen ... Read more

Features

• One year warranty/30 day performance certification
• 10 amp motor turns at 23,000 rpm
• Auto-release collet system
• Machined aluminum motor housing
• 100% ball-bearing construction

Reviews (12)

All it's cracked up to be.
I bought this router two months ago and really like it. The dowm falls that some talk about ie, start up switch and torque is easily solved by the use of a foot switch. It is much safer to run any router with this switch because you are ready for the start up. As for the thing falling out of the base when it is installed upside down in a table, tighten up the nut and check it wants in a while. I like it and would buy it again.

What's the problem?
I've owned one of these dandy little routers for some time now - I also use a 2 hp variable speed Bosch. The plunge base works with both routers, and has proved to be very handy...The quality of this tool and its rugged construction far outweigh the placement of the switch or the fact that you use two wrenches to change bits...A router (like any tool) should be judged primarily by the quality of work it is capable of, and that's where this little baby shines....

New Base A Day Late and A Dollar Short
The 690 has great power ,moter can easily can spin right off it's base under a router table. Now pc has designed a new base lock haven't tried it yet .

A dissatisfied customer
There is nothing inherently wrong with the router, but the router is unusable out of the box. The base plate supplied with unit will not allow you to use a number of conventional bits- I was not able to use a .375" rabbeting bit- the hole is too small. The plate is set for use with the bushing set that sells separately for about [dollar amount]. Porter Cable will sell you a second base plate for [dollar amount]. Also, the on/off switch is a toggle swith on the top of the unit. This location is unsafe- to shut the unit off you have to hold it with one hand & reach around for the switch. You can buy a different base with a trigger switch (standard on most other routers, Sears, Hitachi, Ryobi) for [dollar amount]. I bought the second base for [dollar amount] but built a foot switch for [dollar amount] to use with the router rather than pay [dollar amount]. But the real question is why do we have to buy all these extras just to use the router when other brands supply them as a matter of course? Craftsman sells a 1/2" collet, 2 hp unit for [dollar amount]with a trigger switch & usable right out of the boxx

Another minority
I agree with all the things one reviewer had to say about tourque on start up, the on-off switch is awkward, and one he left out. The sub-base opening is to small to accommodate any type of profile bit, or rabbet bit. I had to spend more money to buy a sub-base that would. And finally, I have to hammer out bits when I use the 1/4" collet. On the plus side there is plenty of power. ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

Porter-Cable's 1-1/2-horsepower router is popular with woodworkers for good reason. It's reliable, powerful, and exceptionally smooth running--not to mention versatile. While you can get this great tool in a two-handle fixed base, plunge base, or D-handle configuration, this kit--which includes both the two-handle and the plunge base--is the best deal going. We really appreciate Porter-Cable's new autorelease collet, which prevents bits from getting frozen in the machine. It'd be great if Porter-Cable could come up with an alternative to needing two wrenches for a bit change, but this minor inconvenience is far outweighed by the tool's overall quality. In fact, Porter-Cable's focus on simple, quality engineering is the reason for this model's long-lasting success. The router doesn't offer electronic variable-speed control or enough power to effectively double as a shaper, but it is among the smoothest-running routers we've tried, producing consistently clean results. For most applications it offers all the versatility and muscle you need. --Brian Trinen ... Read more

Features

• One year warranty/30 day performance certification
• Powerful cutting action
• Auto-release collet system
• Precision machined aluminum motor housing and base, includes fixed and plunge bases for versatility
• Long lasting, smooth operation

Reviews (15)

It will be used by many people for a long time
This set represents a very good value and versatility. Though I found securing the motor into the plunge base could be designed in a way more "user friendly " fashion, but being the only option in its class, P-C is happy with the sales graph and I don't think there will be any improvement about that anytime soon. These routers have 10 Amp. motors and they are capable of doing many routing tasks without a hiccup(within its capacity). All kinds of accessories and attachments are available from a wide variety of sources. I think their collets is the very best, regardless their duty class.(75XX series share the same collet.) Also, the other good thing about it; Their collets can travel beyond their sub-base, an often ignored, but when the time comes, appreciated feature. (Though, this nothing to do with the collet design; Because, both 690 and 693's based are designed to allow maximum travel of the motor unit, beyond the sub-base line.) It's also available with a D-handle Bottom line; It's a keeper.

A good tool value.
The versatility of this router is hard to beat. I leave the standard base fastened to my router table and use the plunge base for free hand work. The motor has power to spare and both bases are easy to adjust and use. My only serious criticism is that releasing the clamping mechanism on the plunge base is rather difficult. Keeping track of the wrench, screw, washer and nut while tapping the clamp free can be quite challenging if you work on a busy job site. I would recommend this product to anyone who needs a professional quality tool but has a limited budget.

Great buy
I just purchased this router and have been greatly impressed. Sure, there may be better routers out there in terms of more HP or finer plunge adjustments and so forth, but they are alot more expensive. I've learned to be realistic with my tool buys. I'm not a contractor, carpenter or professional woodworker. That being said, I try to spend my money wisely on tools the fit my hobby - weekends spent in my little home shop building funiture (tables, bedframes, picture frames, etc.) for myself and friends.

That being said, this is really a great router. The double base is wonderful in that I know I won't have to purchase another router for a long time. I don't find swapping the bases to be that big a deal at all. Bits are easy to change in and out. The only thing that concerned me was that it was only 1 1/2 horsepower. I thought I should get a beefier router at 2 or 3 HP. But after using this router for several projects now, I have learned that 1 1/2 HP is clearly enough power for nearly any job out there. I've not had a single hiccup or hesitation. The motor moves through the wood like a knife through butter.

I've used this router for detail work, like cutting details into picture frames, and for grunt work, like etching out mortises for a bed frame, and it handled both with ease.

For all my fellow weekend warriors, I'd highly suggest this router.

More Power Needed
I bought this Router and it worked just fine, until I had to do some real work. It lasted about 3 weeks.

I was routing a 1/2 inch wide by 3/4 deep rabit on a piece of red oak, using the router in a table. I had four bords to rout. I was almost done with the second board when the router started to make rude noises. A few seconds later, it just quit, leaving large amounts of ozone tainted air and a very frustrated user.

It turned out that both brushes were gone, totally burned away. One of the brush contacts on the spindle was entirely fused off. The router is now scrap.

I would buy, and am now, a router with more horsepower if you intend anythin else but occasional weekend work. Do not expect this router to last under anything other than ossasional use.

Great versatile tool, but has a few compromises
For home woodworkers, this is one of the best routers on the market. It allows you to permanently mount the fixed base into a table while still retaining the versatility of a plunge router. It's powerful, relatively free of vibration, and very well made.

One does make some compromises in choosing this over standalone plunge or fixed routers: most plunge routers (including PC's own dedicated 1.5 HP plunge router) have smoother action than this and more precise adjustments. The router is perfectly capable in this role however, and the average home woodworker will have no trouble with it as a plunge router. By contrast, this router is really excellent in a table: it's solid, quick to adjust, and relatively powerful. However, it doesn't have the power to drive the largest horizontal panel raiser bits, and to safely operate this router in a table you will need to buy a separate speed control.

I highly recommend Porter Cable routers; I think they are the best out there. If you're on a budget but still want a strong tool with lots of capabilities, this is absolutely the best choice. But if you have the money, buy the PC 3.25 HP fixed router for your table and buy the PC 1.5 HP plunge router for plunge work. ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

When we bought our first router, we agonized about whether to buy a fixed base or a plunge. Well, we went for the fixed base; in fact, it was this model's predecessor, the Porter-Cable 690. But just as you'd imagine, we also ended up buying a plunge router later on. Had this deal been available back then, we'd have snapped it up. It offers one of the best basic fixed-base routers on the market with a second base that turns it into a plunge. The fixed base has P-C's neat micrometer ring adjustment that lets you raise or lower your bit just a hairsbreadth. This set is ideal for mounting the fixed base in a router table and lifting the body out to use in the plunge base, which, by the way, operates smoothly, has a nice chip deflector, and includes a convenient plunge lock right next to the handle. It also features a six-position stop turret with a 2-1/2-inch plunge range. Best of all, the router offers all the durability and smooth, reliable performance of the original 690 model, with a little more horsepower and a new take on the depth adjustment that prevents the motor from accidentally falling out of the base. If you're looking for bells and whistles, shop up the line a little more, but if you're looking for a solid workhorse with great accuracy and reliability along with the plunge option, this is a great deal. --Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• The motor housing and both bases are precision machined aluminum for better heat dissipation and long, smooth operation
• Get both a fixed and a plunge base for all routing applications
• 1-3/4 hp motor provide ample power for all but the biggest routing applications
• The 10,000 to 27,000 rpm electronic variable speed allows you to adjust your speed to accommodate any type of wood
• New "lever-release" height adjustment on the fixed base and a smooth locking lever on the plunge base ensure accurate routs every time

Reviews (14)

Porter-Cable 693VSPK Fixed and Plunge Base 1-3/4 HP Router K
Porter-Cable 693VSPK Fixed and Plunge Base 1-3/4 HP Router Kit with Case & Edge Guide
Porter-Cable.

I have looked at and tested alot of routers in the past month. If you want to save alot of time, go for this Porter Cable set. This is serious quality. There are a few that might be a little more user friendly, but you can bet they are cheaper made and will probably fall apart after a run them a few times.

I am just very pleased to own this Porter Cable Router set and wanted to pass that on.

Very nice router package
I purchased this kit earlier this year and have used it to build several projects, mostly lawn furniture and the like. It's a very high-quality kit, easy to use and understand. I've gotten consistent results, depth is easy to fix, and stays put. The edge guide is real time saver too.

My one complaint about routers that convert from fixed to plunge base is that the power switch (located at the top of the router) cannot be accessed without taking a hand off of one of the handles and reaching up. When you do this, your other hand is left trying to hold up a fairly heavy tool (esp after several hundred cuts) while the bit's spinning away. It just doesn't feel safe to me.

bad points
bad points-
1.) i don't understand why they're still making this in 1 3/4 hp. I guess they must have ordered too many of those 1 3/4 hp motors from taiwan

2.) customer service is poor. they should allow their customers to S-I-M-P-L-Y return their purchases when they are dissatisfied.. i say this especially for contractors who have to make a L-I-V-I-N-G and support our F-A-M-I-L-I-E-S with our T-O-O-L-S!!!

CONCLUSION
I got a Dewalt 2 hp plunge router instead... i'm satisfied with the versatality and power of the Dewalt.

THIS TOOL HAS A SERIOUS SAFETY FLAW
The Porter-Cable router, while robustly built, has as its primary weakness a collet that does not adequately grip the shafts of bits. I expereienced a recent incident where a properly seated and tightened rabbeting bit came loose and was propelled at a very high velocity. The bit glanced off the router base, struck the workpiece, and ended up being lodged in the ground. Fortunately no one was hurt! Previous to this "incident," the collet would fail to release bits, requiring a great amount of hand force to insert or remove the bits. Yet the same collet will not hold a bit in place during rotation.

Due to this substantial weakness in the design, I cannot give more than a one star rating of this router. Run like hell from this one. A user would be better served spending his/her money on DeWalt or Bosch. Even my cheap $80 Ryobi has never presented any safety issues like the Porter-Cable.

Excellent value for money
I researched all the usual manufacturers with router kits: DeWalt, Makita, Porter-Cable, Bosch. After reading many, many reviews on the available models and their pros and cons, I settled on the Porter Cable 693VSPK, ..., for the following reasons:
- the free (limited time) precision edge guide.
- RECENT improvements: soft start and variable speed.
- quality.
- availability of accessories.
- Price.
The biggest drawback about this router is the somewhat "rough" feel of the plunge base. This has been commented on by many others who have used or owned this tool and I was reluctant to buy this router initially for this very reason. The term silky smooth does not really apply to teh plunge action. It is smooth, but by no means silky - at least that is how it feels on demo units at the store. The DeWalt's plunge action is really silky smooth in comparison.
However, I decided to buy the PC router and put up with this small negative in this excellent tool's overall design. Once I got the tool home, I decided to look into why this plunge action felt "rough"... the answer is quite simple: the internal spring rubs against the screw threads on the internal guide rod that supports the travel limiting nuts. Here is what I did:
- remove the "stop nut" and travel limits nuts. The upper part of the plunge base will come off, exposing the internal springs.
- Remove the plastic base plate and undo the nut securing the threaded guide rod.
- gently file smooth the tips of the screw thread on the guide rod (it feels quite sharp, hence the source of the noise).
- remove all the factory grease and reapply wheel bearing grease all over the threads and the springs.
- reassemble the plunge base.
- apply some automobile engine oil to lubricate the plunge base moving parts.
The result: a silky smooth plunge action!

The one other thing I noted about this tool was that some cost cutting is obvious on some parts to keep the price down. Example: black oxide finished steel rods are used instead of polished steel, the fixed base clamp level is stamped steel instead of being a diecast piece (unlike DeWalt).

So far, I have no regrets with this tool purchase. Anyone looking for a fixed / plunge router kit should give the Porter Cable a serious look FIRST, before looking at the others and then ask yourself: is is worth paying $$$ more for other makes? ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

Porter-Cable's 1-1/2-horsepower router is popular with woodworkers for good reason. It is reliable, powerful, and exceptionally smooth running--not to mention versatile. Although the 9690 comes with a two-handle fixed base, the motor is interchangeable with Porter-Cable's excellent plunge base or D-handle base. Both matching bases are available separately for much less than the cost of a new router, and switching bases for different applications is a quick and easy operation.

We really appreciate Porter-Cable's new autorelease collet design, which prevents bits from getting frozen in the machine. It'd be great if Porter-Cable could come up with an alternative to needing two wrenches for a bit change, but this minor inconvenience is far outweighed by the tool's overall quality. In fact, Porter-Cable's focus on simple, quality engineering is the reason for this model's long-lasting success. The router doesn't offer electronic variable-speed control or enough power to effectively double as a shaper, but it is among the smoothest-running routers we've tried, producing consistently clean results. For most applications it offers all the versatility and muscle you could ask for. --Brian Trinen ... Read more

Features

• One year warranty/30 day performance certification
• Fast and powerful cutting
• Auto-release collet system
• Machined aluminum motor housing
• Long lasting, smooth operation

Reviews (7)

Excellent!!!
This is my second router and replaced my ... Ryobi "Router". Once again I learned the value of purchasing a quality tool, and the pleasure of violently discarding the source of far too much frustration and wasted wood.

I have cut Maple, Poplar and Pine with it so far, and it has yet to break a sweat. I cannot imagine needing another router for what I do (no shaping..). The precision of the depth adjustment is very good and reassuring. The collet system is solid - yes needing two wrenches is a bit awkward, but worth it. Not that big of a problem really, and the overall quality far outshadows this minor nit pick.

If you don't need a plunge router, buy this.

Holy Routers, Batman!
I bought mine about a year-and-a-half ago, and have routed over FOUR MILES of wood with it on a simple home-made router table. It's been through almost every wood immaginable, and a cup of coffee or two, and yet it still works great. The only cons about it: Your neighbors will not be happy with this choice. Like most routers; it's loud. The only other con would be the hand tool bit tightening system. I guess it's not too bad, though. This was the first router I purchased. Very satisfied.

NO FRILLS PERFECTION
If I were recommending a router to someone just getting into wood working, it would without question, be this tool.People just cant say enough about this machine and what a fine tool it is.For the money, this is best darn router on earth. Just read the reviews and ask around, and this guy will sell itself. Now get out there and make some dust.

Excellent router
I bought this router to replace a Craftsman that I blew up. I have no regrets about my choice, other than not waiting for the multi-base kits to come out. It is versatile, powerful, and very accurate in its cutting. I since have purchased several accessories for it, including the plunge base. If you are looking for just the router, this is it. Otherwise, check out some of the sets available.

great router
This is the first and probably last router I ever bought. I researched it thoroughly before my purchase and I am very satisfied with it. It's reputation as a workhorse is well deserved. Having a case and both 1/4 and 1/2 collets is a plus. The depth adjustment is easy to read and adjust. Besides that it's made in the USA. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Powered by a heavy-duty 1-3/4-horsepower motor that never needs lubrication, this Porter-Cable variable-speed router kit is powerful, versatile and tough. The rocker switch is dust-sealed for added longevity. The motor is easy to remove from the base and can be used with an optional plunge base or router table. A lever release holds the proper depth in place and prevents the motor from falling out during transfer. This router runs relatively quietly, particularly at lower speeds. A soft-start feature minimizes startup reaction torque. An easy-to-use micrometer gauge, inscribed with hash marks every 1/64 inch and clear markings every 1/8 inch, provides simple, accurate depth adjustments. A machined, die-cast aluminum motor housing and base mean added strength and cooler operation. Speed is controlled with electronic precision and is fully adjustable from 10,000-27,500 rpm. Self-releasing collets make bit changes quick and easy. (There's even an accessory collet available for use with 3/8-inch bits.) The adjustable sub-base comes factory-aligned for use with a templet guide. And the built-in handles, while a bit awkward at first, certainly get the job done. All in all, a quality woodworking tool.--Carl Thress ... Read more

Features

• 1/4-inch and 1/2-inch self-releasing collets standard
• Powerful, 1-3/4HP, 11 amp motor
• Electronic variable speed from 10,000-27,500 rpm, for matching speed to material and bit
• Includes 42690 professional edge guide and case
• New "lever release" height adjustment provides ease of use whether in a table or handheld

Reviews (2)

Lever Release has alot to be desired
Lever release height adjustment dosnt buckle to well, have to play with it to get it to snap. No instructions or paper work for edge guide that was included with router. Once lever release buckle was snapped unit performed well. I see Buckle release being a problem in the future.

Porter-Cable 9690VSK
Bought this router last week. A very nice piece of equipment. Solid, well put together, everything you expect in a Porter Cable Tool. With more power than my old 690 router I haven't been able to stop it yet. The collets change in a snap, and the motor won't fall out when inverted in a table. The edge guide is a great bonus, making this router not only the most widely accepted for aftermarket accessories, but a great value as well. ... Read more

Features

• 1-3/4HP, 10 amp motore
• Includes 1/4" and 1/4" collets
• Standard and plunges baes, wrench and case
• Variable speed (10,000-27,500 RPM)