Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)So this appears to be the newest 3 & 1/4 HP router from Makita. I ordered the previous which now seems to be discontinued but got this new one instead so here are my first impressions. Its smooth, I really like the trigger grip so you can keep your hands on it at start up. Great start up and break action. The trigger ,which is on the right side grip, has a lock mechanism on it as well if you want to just leave it on to power through a cut. The plunge action seems real nice.. bearings arent even broken in yet and the way they roll is so slick. Over all it just feels like a very high quality build.
It is not light but it feels real stable and solid because of its weight - personally I like this I feel. Seems like this would be great for a table. But I am keeping this one for out of table use. I checked out the Freud model and it seemed a little more plastic and the plunge action was different, felt mushy instead of slick- didnt like it as much. Also looked at Porter Cable and Milwaukee.
I havent done much but play yet. I took it to some hardwood though - powered right through those. Rambutan, Purple Heart and Hard Oak. Cut'em like butter - smooth almost finished and this is with some old craftsman bit that probably could use sharpening haha. Anyway Ive only had it for a few days. So after I do these cabinets I will post an update about the micro adjust etc and how the other features work. Oh the LED lights are nice too! So far Im very happy and give it 5 stars..
December 14, 2009 - Update
Okay so I have been using this router for almost 2 months now and am just getting finished with a full set of rock maple cabinets. I like this router so much that for the first time (usually I use my table saw) I used it for all the dado's in the cabinets which were 3/4" wide by 3/4" deep and it handled them easily in one pass. It does get a bit loud so I recommend earplugs. Also just did a chess board for my dad with purple heart and blood wood (both extremely dense and hard woods) and it handled them easily as well. My only complaint wood be that there was no adapter or hook up for a vac - it does send wood fluff everywhere but I rigged a set up myself to my shop vac which has helped considerably. I hope they come out with something aftermarket - maybe they have I honestly havent looked much yet. Again I cant say enough how much I like the trigger on off and locking feature at your right finger tips - just makes it a breeze to use and you always feel in control at start up especially with the soft start feature. Depth adjustments are accurate and quick. The LED's to illuminate the work are proving to be more helpful than I though - not sure how I ever got by without them now haha. Great Router. I think I am going to pick up the single speed while it is on sale for $185 for my table - thats a smokin' deal for this kind of quality. I talked to the Makita rep here at a Home Depot locally and he said that is about $100 under amazons cost. So grab one while they are on this Xmas deal or whatever it is. I will update in another 6 months or so to see how it holds up but so far its been great!
Dec. 23rd Update
I have found a list of accessories and there part numbers. Not easy to find as of yet on the internet so may have to be ordered from Home Depot.
'Guide holder assembly (132306-9)
'Straight guide (342428-9)
'Trimmer guide assembly (123022-4)
'Template guide adapter 30
(321492-3)
'Collet cone (763622-4)
'Extended depth adjustment knob (158980-5)
'Clamp set (194385-5))
'Guide rail adapter (194579-2)
'Guide rail 55" (194368-5)
118" (194367-7)
Also looks like they will be releasing a dust collection adapter but couldnt find a part number yet for it. It is pictured in the manual that comes with the router though and mentioned as an optional accessory. Looks LIke you can also use this with the plunge cut saw guide rail - great feature. More updates as appropriate.
Feb 22, 2011 - Still working like new - accurate, no power loss, smooth plunge
Click Here to see more reviews about: Makita RP2301FC 3-1/4 HP Plunge Router (Variable Speed)
The Makita 3-1/4 HP Plunge Router with Variable Speed delivers powerful precision with smooth plunge action and superior performance, with added features including variable speed, electronic speed control and an electric brake. The RP2301FC is engineered with 15 Amp power, ease-of-use features, and an increased plunge capacity for a wide range of applications including fine woodworking, cabinetry, windows, doors, and more.
15 Amp Power and 22,000 RPM for Smooth RoutingThe RP2301FC features a 15 Amp motor with variable speed from 9,000 - 22,000 RPM and electronic speed control to maintain constant speed under load. The RP2301FC has a soft start feature for smooth start-ups and an electric brake for increased productivity. It has a 0" - 2-3/4" plunge depth capacity for easy penetration into the work piece, with linear ball bearings for smooth plunge action. The RP2301FC is engineered with oversized ball bearing construction, as well as a built-in fan with labyrinth construction to minimize dust from entering the tool for longer tool life.
Ease-of-Use FeaturesThe RP2301FC has ergonomic rubberized handles with a built-in two-finger switch for added control, with a lock-on trigger for continuous operation and built-in twin L.E.D. lights that illuminate the work area for increased visibility. The quick-release plunge depth adjustment with micro control and three preset depth stops are engineered for added precision, and the plunge lock lever is conveniently located for efficient operation. The RP2301FC is equipped with a shaft lock for quick and easy bit changes, and the "tool-less" template guide system provides quick and easy installation and removal. Additional ease-of-use features include easy-to-read depth scales, a chip deflector engineered to direct chips away from the operator, and a durable flat top design for stability when changing bits.
Engineered for Finish WoodworkingThe RP2301FC uses 1/4" and 1/2" shank router bits, and is engineered for fine woodworking, cabinetry, furniture making, counter tops, decking, windows and doors, and general carpentry. It is ideal for professional woodworkers, furniture makers, professional craftsmen, cabinet makers, deck builders, boat builders, and general contractors seeking a best in class 3-1/4 HP plunge router. The RP2301FC is just another example of Makita's commitment to innovative technology and best in class engineering.
About Makita's Plunge RoutersMakita's 3-1/4 HP Plunge Routers deliver powerful precision with smooth plunge action and superior performance. Makita\'s latest 3-1/4 HP Plunge Routers feature 15 Amp power, ease-of-use features, and an increased plunge capacity for a wide range of applications including fine woodworking, cabinetry, windows, doors, and more.
About MakitaMakita is a worldwide manufacturer of industrial quality power tools and offers a wide range of industrial accessories. Makita applies leading-edge innovation to engineer power tools that are more compact and energy efficient, yet deliver industrial strength power and results. Makita U.S.A., Inc. is located in La Mirada, California, and operates an extensive distribution network located throughout the U.S. Makita is Best in Class Engineering.
WarrantyEvery Makita tool is thoroughly inspected and tested before leaving the factory. If you are not satisfied with any Makita tool within 30 days of purchase, return it and Makita will provide a replacement or refund. Each Makita tool is warranted to be free of defects from workmanship and materials for the period of ONE YEAR from the date of original purchase. Should any trouble develop during this one-year period, return the COMPLETE tool, freight prepaid, to one of Makita's Factory or Authorized Service Centers.
What's in the BoxMakita RP2301FC 3-1/4 HP Plunge Router (variable speed), 1/4-inch collet sleeve insert, 1/2-inch collet cone, extended-depth adjustment knob and wrench.
Get 48% OFF
Click here for more information about Makita RP2301FC 3-1/4 HP Plunge Router (Variable Speed)
0 comments:
Post a Comment