Fixed base, Plunge, or compact router?

[Arc Kalocal]

I've never used a plunge or compact router before, and I'm going to start building my first CP next weekend. What would work the best for these projects, as well as t-molding and everything else. I really like the idea of a compact, but I don't know if it would suit all my needs.

[Rick]

I bought a Ryobi fixed base router, and it's worked perfectly for everything I've required. For plunge cuts, I've angled the router inside the cut, and eased it in as it's running. Hasn't even been an issue for me. I bought the router I chose for two reasons. One, it was under $100 CDN and included a router table at the time. Two, the base is removable, and I am considering using this on a home-build CNC machine in the future.

[PL1]

For t-molding, I know what thefox would recommend.   

The problem that you may encounter with using a compact is a lack of power for larger bits like the ones used for t-molding.

If you're already familiar with using a fixed-base router, you should be able to do everything you need router-wise with it.


Scott