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Choosing a Router Table

11.07.2022

A router table is a must-have tool for any woodworking shop. Router Tables provide a stable setup in which to mount your handheld router allowing greater control of the workpiece for increased safety, speed and ease of use.

A Router Table can be used to rout or cut grooves and decorative features onto the surface of a piece of wood. They can also be used for many different projects such as producing moldings and planning edges straight. It also allows for safer freehand shaping and creating more intricate designs… Making innovative woodworking projects a breeze!

But with so many Routers Table options on the market, how do you choose the right one for your needs? Let’s take a look!

 

What to look for in a Router Table

  1. Table size. The table should be large enough to accommodate the size of your projects. Make sure you check the dimensions carefully!
  2. A sturdy and solid surface. You want your workpieces supported while you are routing them. Safety first.
  3. Dust extraction capabilities. Dust Port with universal adapters enabling connection to virtually any dust extractor. Improve safety by the effective removal of potentially hazardous dust and keep your workspace clean, tidy and dust-free!
  4. Adjustable parts. From bit guards to the Mitre gauge. It’s important your table is adjustable to suit all project types and sizes.
  5. A trusted brand. Do your research before buying a product to make sure it’s right for your individual needs. And make sure to check their policies. For example, all products sold by Carbitool are covered by Australian Consumer Laws, so you won’t get hung out to dry.

 

The Carbitool Router Table

Do you require a sturdy, simple but durable table to utilise larger bits which are too big to run in a handheld machine? The Carbitool Router Table does exactly this and is one of the most solid router tables anywhere near its price point.

The worktop is made from 38mm MDF with a melamine coating providing both the strength and uniform core density of MDF and offering a smooth, hardwearing melamine working surface.

Angle braced steel legs give the table an extremely rigid base yet keep the weight manageable, meaning the unit can be readily moved around the workshop if required.

Remember how we mentioned all the important things to look for when buying a Router Table? The Carbitool Router Table has all of those features and more! Let’s check out some of the additional specs:

  • 800mm x 610mm tabletop with a working height of 850mm.
  • Aluminium T-Slots for fence adjustment and Aluminium T-Slot (Mitre slot) to accept an adjustable angle sliding Mitre Gauge.
  • Strong solid 25mm thick split sub-fences allowing individual adjustment of the infeed & outfeed fences.
  • “Through the fence” dust extraction. Dust Port with universal adapters.
  • Removable/adjustable Acrylic bit guard.
  • 10mm thick Acrylic Insert with adjustable levelling screws and two insert rings.
  • Aluminium insert plate and Mitre gauge available.

 

Will my router machine fit in the Carbitool Router Table?

The Carbitool Router Table has a universal mounting plate that accepts virtually all routing machines. The routing machine is mounted to a 10mm acrylic insert which has concentric circles on the underside to help with lining it up.

The Aluminium Insert Plate has existing pre-marked holes to match popular routers. In the unlikely event that the holes don’t match your particular machine, a suitable hole pattern can be copied directly from the existing base plate of your machine. Detailed instructions are included but it really is super simple!

 

Hints & Tips

Router bits with ½” diameter shanks generally have a longer overall length than ¼” shank router bits. ½” shank bits may be required for use in Router Tables/Router Benches, depending on your machine’s plunge guide setup & how close your particular machine mounts to the Insert Plate. Our Router Table accepts & works well with virtually all ½” collet & many ¼” collet machines.

Check suitability and always ensure all shanks are inserted a minimum of 19mm (3/4”) into collet.

 

Choosing a router table

When it comes to router tables there is no one-size-fits-all solution. What’s best for you often depends on your specific needs and of course, your budget.

However, if you’re looking for a great all-in-one option, look no further than the Carbitool Router Table Package. A smart solution for both amateur and professional users with a wide range of features and everything included so just set it up and you’re ready to go!

Our Carbitool Router Table is easy to use, versatile and accurate. Transform your woodworking business today with Carbitool. Get your Router table here or browse our full range of Timber tools online.

Questions? Contact our friendly team at sales@carbitool.com.au for further information.