Buy or build router table

banjo · 14 Feb 2007

Just built the base frame today. Will do the drawers etc when the table is made!
Got a few questions if anyone can help.
Noticed the table top in the Rutlands brochure for £70 with an insert already fitted. Has anyone any info on the top?
Also the router I am going to use is a Bosch 1700ACE (not 1500 as mentioned earlier) Does any one have any experience with this model as all I have really only used the lower powered ones to 'job-on'. Can any of the lifting devices be fitted to this model as well.
Cheers all
Banjo

martlewis · 14 Feb 2007

Hi mate,

Just finished fitting a Rout-R-Lift from Rutlands. Works with any plunge router but you would probably need a collet extension if you want to change bits above the table.

So far I've used a sheet of 8x4 ply and a sheet of 3x2 melamine for the top. Minimal expense as most of the wood was in my shop anyway.

Pictures to follow soon on my build.

Martin

lemonjeff · 14 Feb 2007

Banjo,
I'm just doing the finishing touches to my table, which has the rutlands table top. What do you need to know mate?

Jeff.

PS and Welcome

banjo · 14 Feb 2007

Cheers Jeff,
Just basically is the quality OK?
Thanks mate
banjo

lemonjeff · 15 Feb 2007

Banjo,
Given the price I think it's value for money. The laminate surface used is more like that on laminate flooring and not formica, so not as hard wearing as making your own.
However it's tough enough for what I'm going to throw at it for the next few years.

The insert plate is better than I expected although the opening for it is a little oversize, cured by using the corner clamping holes.

The top had a .011" bow/dip along it's length which meant a little shimming.

So to answer your question, the quality is OK but if you make your own then the quailty would be Excellent would'nt it :wink:

Jeff

Lord Nibbo · 15 Feb 2007

you don't need to buy 10' x 4' laminate. I bought a sheet of THIS it is much thicker ie. you cant bend it, it's double sided i.e. a different colour on each side, I managed to find a sheet that was white on one side and marble on the other side. It's also scratch resistent and can be trimmed with a router to chamfer the edges when glued down. It is perfect for router table tops.

Here's a pic of the table I used it on, I also used the off cuts on the fence but since this pic was done I have added some track in the fence.

:lol: