Makita RF1101KIT2 2-1/4-Horsepower Variable-Speed Plunge Router Kit
by Makita
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Our Price: $229.95
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Product Details
Manufacturer: MakitaModel: RF1101KIT2
Product features:
- 2-1/4 HP variable speed plunge router kit
- Durable flat top design allows stability when changing bits
- Sports an aluminum motor housing with a slender 3-1/4-inch diameter for easy handling
- Includes plunge base assembly, 1/2-inch collet, 1/4-inch collet, 2 No. 27 wrenches, wrench No. 8, and No. 4 hex wrench
- Plunge depth of 2-19/32 inches; 1-year limited warranty
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Description of Makita RF1101KIT2 2-1/4-Horsepower Variable-Speed Plunge Router Kit
? 11 Amps ? V/S dial 8,000 - 24,000 RPM ? Plunge base has 3 depth stops ? 1/4" and 1/2" collet capacity ? 1-1/8" center hole ? 5-3/4" base diameter ? Weight with fixed base 7.1 lbs. ? Weight with plunge base 9.3 lbs.The Makita 2-1/4 HP Variable Speed Plunge Router Kit features an ultra-quiet motor along with convenient fixed and plunge bases. It also has a variable speed control dial of 8,000 to 24,000 RPM, matching the speed to the materials. This router sports aluminum motor housing with a slender 3-1/4-inch diameter for easy handling, and a durable flat top design that allows stability when changing bits. For longer life, it has all ball bearing construction, and for convenience, it boasts externally accessible carbon brushes. Even better, the soft start allows smooth and safe start-ups. A fixed base, plunge base, and multiple wrenches come included with this router kit.
This router has plunge depth of 2-19/32 inches and a large calibrated depth control ring for easy depth adjustment. To ensure a long tool life nickel-plated plunge poles protect it from corrosion. It is backed by a one-year warranty.
What's in the Box
Plunge base assembly, 1/2-inch collet, 1/4-inch collet, two No. 27 wrenches, No. 8 wrench, and No. 4 hex wrench.
Tools and Hardware Reviews of Makita RF1101KIT2 2-1/4-Horsepower Variable-Speed Plunge Router Kit
Customer Review: Great Router
Summary: 5 Stars
This is my first router but I've used several PC 690s. I handled a 2 1/4 PC in a store, and was not at all impressed with the quality, and the on/off switch was horrible.
I knew I wanted a 2 1/4HP for the occasional large bit and flexibility for table or handheld use.
I probably spent a week researching routers and reading reviews online.
I finally narrowed it down to this kit, or the Hitachi.
What settled it for me was I called Hitachi to inquire how big the sub-base was, and asked a few general questions. The rep told me "it's just a homeowner tool." So I went with the Makita.
The fixed base seems of very high quality and nice design. I have no problem with the two wrench collet adjustment. Simply finger tighten the collet, and then another 1/2 turn or so at the most with the wrench. Couldn't take more than about 15 seconds to change bits. The kit comes with a nice 2 1/2" opening sub-base, as well as the standard sub-bases that are basically worthless for anything but the tiniest bits.
I barely notice the soft start, but I guess it takes the edge off a bit. The router is much quieter than the PC690, like night and day. Variable speed works great and is stupid simple to change.
The on/off switch is of course up at the top, where most of them are. It is however a nice little toggle lever, rather than a cumbersome button. Unfortunately it's made out of plastic.
I haven't used the plunge base yet, but honestly I have to say it seems to be of pretty cheesy quality with a lot of flimsy plastic parts. The plunge action seems decent enough with a bit of spring noise.
Having to tighten a philips head screw to lock the plunge base onto the motor seems a bit ridiculous. Can't they make some kind of cam lock or something? Anyway, I don't plan on using the plunge base often so it's not a deal breaker for me.
The case is pretty nice, but I would have much prefered metal buckles. The plastic latches seem like they might not last long with average use.
All in all, I'm perfectly happy with the router kit, and I look forward to years of routing with it.
As always a great experience with Amazon. $4 overnight shipping with Amazon Prime. Awesome.
UPDATE:
8/22/2010
Have used the router sporadically.
Only thing I would change about my review is the fact that I regularly have a very difficult time getting the bits OUT of the collet!! I've tried not tightening them down as much, and I wound up ruining an expensive railing because the bit loosened!
I've had to pry the bits out a few times with the wrenches, and am worried about damaging the base blate.
What is up with this, MAKITA?! Come on!
Am I missing something here? Curious to hear how others find this issue, if at all.
UPDATE: 9/15
Sent the router in for repair under warranty. Apparently they replaced both collets, and all is great. Amazing difference. Like a different machine. Bits come out effortlessly, like they should. I would probably buy the router again, but I wonder what happened?
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