The DeWalt DW618PK comes with a powerful 12-AMP, 2.25 HP motor and variable speeds that maximize its versatility and ability to finish different kinds of jobs.
DeWalt DW618PK Review
Motor and Soft Start
With a 2.25 peak horsepower motor, the DeWalt DW618PK makes it very easy to work with and cut through all kinds of wood.
The motor is also a tool-free steel cam style one to allow you to make quick changes between depth measurements and bases.
Moreover, the stress on the motor is minimized thanks to the soft start feature that reduces the torque and load on the power train during startup.
Variable Speeds
The DeWalt DW618PK gives you variable speeds and full feedback control that ranges from 8,000 RPM (rotations per minute) and up to 24,000 RPM.
You can easily control the speed through turning the variable speed dial to reach the speed that best suits the type of project you’re working on.
Between 1 and 3, the DeWalt DW618PK rotates at a range of 8,000 to 14,000 RPM to allow you to work with large diameter cutters and bits.
On the other hand, if you want to work with small diameter ones to work on softwoods and plastic laminates, you can set the dial to speed between 4 and 6 to give you 18,000 to 24,000 RPM.
A plunge or Fixed Base? You don’t have to choose
Fixed bases give you more control over the depth of your cuts as well as the consistency of this depth while the plunge base allows you to lift the bit back out after plunging the router bit down on the wood stock.
And with the DeWalt DW618PK, you’ll be able to execute both actions.
Moreover, the fixed base comes with a locking lever and a 360 micro-adjustment ring to give you better control over the depth of your cuts.
Ergonomics
You can have better control over the router with the two rubber handles that attach to the router at an angle that pushes the point closer to the base plate.
It’s also quite compact and light measuring 10.8 x 9.5 x 7.2 inches in height and weighing 7.2 pounds with the fixed based and 10.1 pounds with the plunge one.
The bits of the router can easily be changed thanks to the spindle lock and single wrench changes.
Furthermore, the LEXAN sub-base provides the router with stability and maximizes the visibility during radius cuts and edging.
You can also remove the base easily with the spring-loaded quick-release tabs on either side of the router.
And while the DW618PK comes with an 8-foot 18 gauge cord, you can detach the cord for more maneuverability and freedom of motion.
Precision and Stability
The DeWalt DW618PK operates very smoothly and without hanging up when it’s moved up and down.
This makes it very stable and enables it to make clean cuts.
The plunge base features a 5-position adjustable turret on its right-hand side which enables the user to make a 1/32-inch step down with each turn of the dial –which maximizes the user’s control over the depth of the cuts.
Moreover, the micro-fine depth adjustment ring executes precise routes of up to 5/128 of an inch.
Lock the router down and you’re ready to move it back and forth between the two bases.
DeWalt DW618PK Router Table
The only downside, however, is the fact that the DeWalt DW618PK has a split base design to pull the walls of the base together to secure the motor by using a clamp. This means that as you tighten down the clamp, the motor will probably move a little vertically.
You can avoid this issue by checking the depth of the bit after securing the clamp.
Collet Size and Cutting Depth
Another thing that the DeWalt DW618PK spares you the need to make a choice regarding is the collet size as it comes with both a ¼ inch collet and a ½ inch one for maximum versatility and ability to use a wider range of bits.
As for the cutting depth, the DeWalt DW618PK allows you to control bit depth changes within 1/64 of an inch and has an extended 8 slot collet to deliver maximum contact with the router shank.
With the standard base, you get up to 1.5-inch depth travel while you get 2-inch depth with the plunge base.
Whether the extra 1/16-inch that you have to work around is an issue or not changes from one user to another, so it depends on your own opinion.
DeWalt DW618PK Accessories
You can purchase a number of accessories separately to further improve the performance of your DW618PK.
This includes the DNP618 Edge Guide for Fixed Base Compact Router, the DW6913 Router Edge Guide with Fine Adjustment and Vacuum Adapter.
You can also purchase a lot of various bits to create different cuts.
DeWalt DW618PK Router Dust Collection
The shroud on the toggle-type power switch protects it against the debris of wood and dust.
The system collects up to 95% of the dust to maintain visibility.
DeWalt DW618PK Parts
Both a 1/4-inch and a ½-inch collet, DW6184 fixed base, DW6182 plunge base, vacuum adapter.
Pros
- Ergonomic design prevents arm and hand fatigue
- The power cord can be detached
- Powerful performance even with medium-quality bits
- Clamp design to be adjustable
- Variable speeds
- A 3-year warranty
- Effective dust collection
Cons
- Lacks an edge guide (can be purchased separately)
- Doesn’t come with a centering tool
- Adjustment ring may occasionally slip for lack of locking in
Final Thoughts
This router is the perfect choice for someone who’s transitioning from an entry-level of woodworking to a more professional level.
It’s very useful for adding special touches, trimming, inlays, an fine furniture building such as creating raised panel doors.
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