testtest

Woodshop question - router tables

B

benstt

Professional
Founding Member
I'm putting together a wood and metal shop. Im looking at buying a router table in a couple weeks. Do any of you have experience with MDF vs phenolic vs cast iron?
 
@benstt when I built my shop I went with a cast iron router table for support of the router and surround it with oak to increase the size of the work surface. The total size of the table is your decision based on what your projects will be.
 
For any tool in any shop, I always go extra-heavy-duty. That way, the strength of the tool is never a concern. Portable tools, on the other hand...I go for more "technologically advanced" materials that can be both lightweight and strong. But if it ain't moving around (portable)...go for the boat anchor. Not only will it be stronger, but you'll get better product out of it due to the fact it isn't wiggling around on you - you'll get cleaner cuts, straighter lines, and sharper edges from a solid, stable work surface.

Generally if I'm shopping for a shop tool, I hit the antique shops first. Never know what you might find - and my 1870's bench vise is about 1000x more solid and durable than anything made today. Ditto my hydraulic press, and my drill press.

They don't make 'em like they used to.
 
Peglegjoe said:
For any tool in any shop, I always go extra-heavy-duty. That way, the strength of the tool is never a concern. Portable tools, on the other hand...I go for more "technologically advanced" materials that can be both lightweight and strong. But if it ain't moving around (portable)...go for the boat anchor. Not only will it be stronger, but you'll get better product out of it due to the fact it isn't wiggling around on you - you'll get cleaner cuts, straighter lines, and sharper edges from a solid, stable work surface.

Generally if I'm shopping for a shop tool, I hit the antique shops first. Never know what you might find - and my 1870's bench vise is about 1000x more solid and durable than anything made today. Ditto my hydraulic press, and my drill press.

They don't make 'em like they used to.
Click to expand...
I hear that. My dad still has some old Milwaukee tools that run like tops after almost 50 years and the top on his table saw is some seriously well-ground iron. It's a lot nicer than I see at Rockler or Woodcraft.
 
I'd stay away from MDF because it will only be as flat and level as whatever subframe it's connected to and it can also damage a lot easier than the resin top or cast.

Personally if cast is an option I would go that route (no pun intended). It should be more true to dead flat and it should stay that way by having less flex than the other materials which can be affected from uneven surface conditions it maybe resting on.
 
Last edited:
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top