spinningreel Posted October 16, 2019 Report Share Posted October 16, 2019 Looking to buy my 1st ever Router, Looking at the D handle Makita model RD1101. I'm thinking the D handle version will aid in Controlling the tool during use. Any tips or advice? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
spinningreel Posted October 17, 2019 Author Report Share Posted October 17, 2019 After watching some YouTube video reviews of the Cordless Compact Makita Router, I'm starting to lean in that direction. It has 2 features I like, and LED light & a button to lock the shaft during bit changes. I already have Four 5.0 Amp hour batteries, so a bare tool would be more economical. And this will be mostly used for Roundovers on interior shelving and garage hobby type work, etc. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jjwillac Posted October 17, 2019 Report Share Posted October 17, 2019 The cordless is hard to beat for the type of work you're describing; it's compact, powerful, and versatile with the availability of the plunge and other bases. Of the 7 routers I have, 3 are the cordless Makitas (one plunge base, one fixed or offset base, and one on a guide rail sled). They may have slightly less power than the 2 1/4 router you first mentioned (I'm not familiar with it), but I doubt that would be an issue given your apparent needs. I will say though that the button for bit changes is not very useful; I always end up just using two wrenches. Also, the dust extraction shroud is a must have. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ToolBane Posted October 17, 2019 Report Share Posted October 17, 2019 When in doubt go cordless... I love my cordless Makita router. Chances are high I never plug in my 1/2” corded again. Thankfully my usual stuff doesn’t get much more challenging than the basic round overs etc. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
spinningreel Posted October 23, 2019 Author Report Share Posted October 23, 2019 Called my local Makita Dealer today and told him to order the RD1101 (D handle, 2 1/4 HP corded model). I think the idea of having the trigger built into the d handle will add in both control and safety. Now I have to purchase a few Router bits (Roundover, Ogee, etc.) I see that they come in both 1/4" & 1/2" Shank sizes, and this router comes with both size Collets. I've heard that 1/2" size shanks perform better. Any truth to this? Any tips or advice on bits. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ToolBane Posted October 23, 2019 Report Share Posted October 23, 2019 When given the option, I would absolutely do 1/2” whenever possible Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jjwillac Posted October 24, 2019 Report Share Posted October 24, 2019 Agree on 1/2" when ever possible. The only consideration would be if you anticipate getting a trim router down the line for light duty tasks like roundovers then you'd have to get 1/4" bits at that point. Get the best bits you can afford and take good care of them. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.