Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What’s in the Kit
- Motor, Speed Control and Switch
- The Fixed Base and Micro Adjustment
- The DWP612 Plunge Base
- Who It’s For
- Final Thoughts
- FAQ
Introduction
A compact router is the tool a lot of woodworkers end up reaching for more than their full-size router. It’s light enough for one hand, it handles edge profiles and trim work, and with the right base it can do real plunge work too. The DEWALT DWP611PK has been one of the most popular kits in that class for years, and our editors took a close look at everything in the box.
This is a refresh of our original DEWALT DWP611PK compact router review, rebuilt around the video so you can see each feature as John walks through it.
What’s in the Kit
The PK kit comes with the router motor, the fixed base, a plunge base, a soft carrying bag, a wrench for bit changes and the owner’s manual. In the video, John noted it comes with a 1/4 in. collet. The plunge base has its own model number, DWP612, so if you buy the router by itself you can add the plunge base later as an accessory.
Motor, Speed Control and Switch
DEWALT rates the DWP611 at 1-1/4 HP max torque, and in the video John lists the motor at 7 amps with an 8 ft. cord. The variable speed dial runs from 16,000 RPM on setting one to 27,000 RPM on setting six, with each step adding roughly 2,200 RPM. John’s tip from the manual: use the lower settings for larger bits and the higher settings for smaller ones.
DEWALT says the soft-start motor uses full-time electronic feedback to hold speed through the cut. The on/off switch sits under a plastic dust cover. Some people like it and some hate it, but its job is to keep dust out of the switch and prevent early failure.
The Fixed Base and Micro Adjustment
The fixed base has a locking lever and two quick-release tabs. Depth is set with an adjustment ring that turns a full 360 degrees, and DEWALT says it lets you make depth changes to within 1/64 in. on the fixed base. There’s a small reference needle below the DEWALT logo, so you can zero the dial and see exactly how far you’ve moved. John admitted the system takes a little getting used to, but he really liked how smoothly it works.
Bit changes are simple. Press the levers, slide the motor out, and use the spindle lock. John liked that there are plenty of lock points, so you don’t have to spin the shaft a full revolution to find one. The base is clear, which makes it easy to see your work, and two LED lights help light up the cut. For size, John set it next to the Bosch Colt. The two are very similar, with the Colt a tad taller and a little skinnier at the base.
The DWP612 Plunge Base
The plunge base handles have a rubber-style grip coating instead of bare plastic. It has a turret with 1/4 in. step-downs, so you can take a deep cut in passes without overworking the router, plus one adjustable stop for a depth you use often. An adjustable reference needle works with the 2 in. depth scale, and the plunge lever is smooth and almost effortless.
Swapping the motor from the fixed base to the plunge base takes seconds. Line up the channels with the locating pins and the motor slides right down. You can also flip the motor 180 degrees in the base, depending on which way you like to route.
Who It’s For
If you do trim work, edge profiles, hinge mortises or light plunge work around the house or shop, a kit like this covers a lot of ground. Browse more of our router reviews or see everything we’ve covered from DEWALT.
For current pricing and specs, check DEWALT’s DWP611PK page.
Final Thoughts
The DWP611PK packs a lot into a small router: variable speed, soft start, a precise micro-adjust ring on the fixed base, LED lights, and a plunge base that turns it into a much more capable tool. The dust-covered switch and the adjustment system take a little time to learn, but our editors liked how well everything works once you do.
FAQ
What comes in the DEWALT DWP611PK kit?
The router motor, a fixed base, the DWP612 plunge base, a soft carrying bag, a bit wrench and the owner’s manual. In the video, John noted it comes with a 1/4 in. collet.
How fast does the DWP611 spin?
The variable speed dial runs from 16,000 RPM on setting one to 27,000 RPM on setting six.
Can I buy the plunge base separately?
Yes. The plunge base is model DWP612, so you can buy the router alone and add the plunge base later.
Why is there a cover over the switch?
The plastic cover keeps dust out of the switch to help prevent early failure. Some users find it a little awkward at first.
How precise is the depth adjustment?
DEWALT says the fixed base adjustment ring allows depth changes to within 1/64 in.
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