DEWALT COMPACT ROUTER REVIEW – DWP611PK

DEWALT has released some great routers over the years, and the NEW DW611PK combination set is no exception! We ordered this from ACME Tools you can.

Specifications for DEWALT DWP611PK:

• 1.25HP motor
• Soft starting motor – Full-time electronic  feedback to maintain motor speed through cuts
• Adjustment to within 1/64”
• Plunge Base and fixed Base
• 5 position adjustable turret
• Up to 1.5” depth travel with standard base and 2” with Plunge base
• 12 slot spindle lock
• 8 slot ¼” collet
• 7 Amps
• No load Speed – 16,000 27,000 rpm
• Dust Sealed Rocker Switch
• Dual LED lights
• Weight 4.1lbs (fixed base) 6.2lbs (plunge base)

The DEWALT DWP611PK kit includes a Nylon soft carrying bag, the kit includes two bases. A fixed base for all of your trimming, and edging needs. A plunge base that allows you to take essentially, a trim router into a fully capable plunge router. This router is large enough to tackle 90% of the projects I do around the house. The router itself has some nice touches. Two bright LED lights that help you see the workpiece a lot easier, and helps those who maybe working in a low lit workspace. Did I mention it includes a soft-start motor, this not only prolongs motor life-it also helps you operate the router safer by not jerking it from your hands upon startup?

DEWALT typically put’s plastic dust covers over the switch on most of their woodworking tools. The DWP611 router has included that same dust cover over the on/off switch. Some may find this annoying, and some times it can be a hassle turning the router on/off. I personally don’t mind it, especially if it’s going to prolong the switch life. The router also includes a variable speed dial controlling the speed from 16,000-27,000 RPM’s (27.100 in the manual).

Much like it’s bigger brothers in the DEWALT family the DWP611 fixed base adjusts by turning a adjustment ring. This is a quick and accurate way to make precise up/down adjustments accurately within 1/64″. Removing the fixed base is also a breeze. DEWALT has added two spring loaded quick release tabs that allow you to quickly change back and forth between bit changes, and bases.

Heading over to the Plunge base, it offers soft rubber coated grips which allow for better comfort and control. The base offers 5 different turret stops, 1 being adjustable.

The 2″ depth scale includes a adjustable marker that allows you to easily figure your depth points. The plunge lever is large enough to easily release the very smooth action plunge rods.

Conclusion:

It’s hard to find anything I don’t like about this router, except maybe ditching the soft carrying back.

Much like it’s Porter Cable 450PK cousin the DEWALT DWP611PK is a winner in my book! It offers a lot of great, well thought out features. Features like, LED lights, soft-start motor, over-sized D shaped fixed base, dust covered switches, etc. This router was built to last, and has a some great accessory add ons.