What is Reddit's opinion of DEWALT Router Fixed/Plunge Base Kit, Variable Speed, 12-Amp, 2-1/4-HP (DW618PK)?

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This is the router that came fairly highly recommended back in the day when I was looking then I got a down spiral cut bit for my plunge cuts (1/4" since that is what the jasper jig uses), a few roundover/chamfer bits, and a flush trim... Bosh makes pretty good bits for the price so I usually stick with them. Looks like amazon is even running a $20 off dewalt tools right now too.

As far as a "bench" you don't need anything fancy most of my work has been done on a piece of 2'x4' ply on saw horses. With powertools you don't have much lateral force so you don't need something as sturdy as you would if you're using planes, hand saws, and chisels. You just have to be careful about making sure things are balanced and clamped properly so you don't accidentally tip your work surface. Bonus is that it can be folded up and stored easily and if you need a special spot to clamp just right I just cut into the ply.

I'd also take a look at the Dewalt combo package. I think its fairly similar to the Milwaukee one you have listed.

I recently bought the Dewalt combo and the few times I've used it I really like it.

Dewalt Combo

I have the Dewalt 2 1/4 HP

Love it. Use it constantly making stick chairs.

You definitely want to get a router. I'd say get a router even before a planer. Ideally, get one that can do both 1/2" and 1/4" collet. For the money, this is a good one: http://www.amazon.com/DEWALT-DW618PK-12-AMP-Fixed-Base-Variable-Speed/dp/B00006JKXE/ref=sr_1_1?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1444051692&sr=1-1&keywords=dewalt+router

This is the one I was looking at: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00006JKXE/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=1QXUNLTAU6H35&coliid=I2Z2SZ155P5U9K&psc=1

Haven't gotten it yet. It's a toss up for me between this and the already mentioned Bosch.

The links on both of those say 4 horsepower. But they are both 2 1/4. wonder why that is?

Personally, I have never had a problem with my Dewalt. Plunge and fixed base. And its just over $200 on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/DEWALT-DW618PK-12-AMP-Fixed-Base-Variable-Speed/dp/B00006JKXE/ref=sr_1_2?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1480635974&sr=1-2&keywords=dewalt+router

Plunged and Fixed Base.

https://www.reddit.com/r/woodworking/comments/2sgdga/router_suggestions/ may be helpful to you.

I love my DeWalt DW618PK for what that's worth. It's got good dust collection in the plunge base, which will be especially important if you're working with MDF. If you're looking for a cheaper route, the Ryobi is a decent place to start.

As for bits, You probably just need one straight bit to get started. Get a "starter pack" of common bits, including straights and roundovers. Again, the Ryobi set is a decent place to start. If you want higher end, go with Freud upspiral bits.

Good luck!