HERCULES 20V Brushless Cordless Compact Router - Tool Only

There are a few considerations when selecting a router, including:

• Applications: If your applications will primarily involve lighter duty work such as routing edge profiles and using bits 1” diameter or less, a compact router (sometimes called a trim router) may fit your needs. If your applications will primarily involve heavier duty work such as using larger bits like panel bits or cope and stick bits, or if you plan on using your router in a router table, a full-size router is more appropriate.
• Power: Corded routers generally provide more power than cordless routers.
• Size: A full-size router has two handles to hold, whereas compact routers are held near the base of the tool. Depending on your application, a compact router may provide more control than a full-size router such as during edge routing.
• Bases / Kits: A kit with two bases allows you to mount the fixed base in a router table or use the plunge base for hand routing.

Yes, routers sold by Harbor Freight can be used with most router accessories like router tables, dovetail jigs, template guides, straight edge guides, and circle jigs.

Selecting the proper speed depends on the bit diameter and the work piece. Generally, bits up to 1” diameter can spin up to 24,000 RPM, bits 1-1/8 to 2-1/2” can spin up to 18,000 RPM, bits 2-5/8 to 3” in diameter can spin up to 12,000-14,000 RPM, and bits larger than 3” can spin up to 12,000 RPM. Exercise care when selecting the operating speed. As an example, reduce the speed when cutting burn prone materials like maple and cherry or wood that has wild grain.

There are several factors that may cause burned profiles including a feed rate that is too slow, taking too large a cut, or a bit that spins too fast. When cutting, take a thin cut (1/32 inch) as a final clean up pass.