A router table is the ultimate must-have for any craftsman looking to make the best use of their already available handheld router. It is simply a table that has been fashioned with a hole in the middle so you can place the router upside down and attach it with bolts.
This setup means the bit of the router will be up, thus freeing up your hands to properly manipulate the wood you are working on and control the action. Another added advantage is seeing precisely what the router bit is doing to the wood. Routers are already incredibly time-saving and valuable, so adding a router table might seem like an extra hassle. However, once you do, you will end up wondering how you ever lived without one.
What are the types of router tables?
There are primarily two types of router tables: Benchtop router tables and freestanding router tables.
Freestanding Router Tables
If you will be taking on woodworking projects long-term and have the space for it, freestanding router tables would work better for you. They are router tables that have their own legs, so they stand alone. They tend to be bulky, but they are sturdier, great for heavy-duty tasks. They also come with accessories such as a catch, storage, push tools, and other accessories that make tasks seamless. Some freestanding tables even have removable legs, though, and can become benchtop tables. We discuss the advantages of this below.
Benchtop Router Tables
This type of router table is relatively uncommon. Freestanding router tables are more popular. Benchtop routers are built to be placed on top of a table or flat work surface. This type of router table is better suited to woodworking beginners or those that only dabble here or there. Because they do not come with legs, they make it easier to optimize for a smaller space. That also makes them easier to transport. However, they can lack some features that freestanding router tables might have, such as storage drawers.
What are the components of a router table?
Router tables come with some basic parts. These include table guards, fences, plates, a dust extraction port, and a no-volt release switch. Higher-end router tables tend to come with accessories as well. This is especially so for freestanding router tables. The additional accessories can include a miter gauge, a lead-on pin, insert rings, router table pressures, table blocks, collet extensions, and push tools.
What can a router table be used for?
Router tables are a fantastic addition to workshops. They can improve many tasks that would be difficult otherwise when using a handheld router. One crucial situation router tables can be used for is routing a large number of the same cuts. This is because once you set up your router table with a fence, you can feed multiple pieces of identical shape one after the other, to save you time. You cannot do that with a handheld router.
Router tables are also the best thing to use when working with small and thin materials. It is challenging to rout these manually, but router tables make this more manageable without the risk of any tipping.
These tools are also functional when producing raised panel doors. It is nearly impossible to achieve accurate panel doors with a handheld router.
Lastly, router tables are essential when working on stopped cuts. These are cuts found within the wood. They do not continue for the entire length of the wood and can be practical or even decorative. Router tables make it simple to produce multiple stopped cuts.
What are the precautions to take when using a router table?
You can take a few precautions to make sure you use the router table safely and accurately. Before even using a router table, you need to ensure that the router is attached securely. Make sure the bolts are tight, so the bit remains in one place while you work. If you are using a benchtop router table, you also need to make sure the router table is clamped securely. Finally, your table or workbench needs to be highly steady to prevent wobbling while you work.
