DEWALT Router, Fixed/Plunge Base Kit, 12-Amp, 2-1/4-HP (DW618B3)

Dewalt Routers are well-known for their quality and reliability. This set is no exception. Good power, easy to handle on startup thanks to the now-standard "ramp up" startup function, and constant speed make the 618 series a winner. I'm quite pleased with my purchase.I chose this set as I needed both fixed and plunge bases, and was intrigued by the D-handle base. As a set, it was affordable due to the sale at the time, and far cheaper than buying the D-handle separately (something I can assure you would not have happened).So it was a pleasant surprise to find that I've actually used it more frequently lately than the fixed base. No, not for the same reasons I'd normally use a fixed base (edge routing comes immediately to mind.) But dados? Especially LONG dados? With my jig? Well - yes. The remote trigger function makes turning it on and off an instinctive thing, but I was pleasantly surprised to see how stable it could be - even one-handed as I reach across a 30"-plus path. Mind you, I DEFINITELY recommend a two-handed approach wherever possible. But using it one-handed was - surprisingly - not scary. Just pay attention, and use a jig. A little "locked-wrist approach" and it's really pretty easy to keep in control.So no, I'd probably never have purchased the D-handle separately. But in this kit, the added cost was minimal. And I LIKE the D-handle - I really do. But I could have lived happily forever without it.And I would have missed out on something pretty cool.

I've owned and used the DW 616 1-3/4 hp router for the last for two years and have always yearned for a Plunge base and a D handle sub base for mortice and dado cutting respectively . Finally decided to acquire the extra bases and In my searches came across this DW618b3 kit with an larger 2-1/4 hp motor priced at around $242 When I crunched the numbers I realized that having already committed to shelling out $200 on the two bases individually , I could basically pick up an extra 2-1/4hp Router motor and a carry case for an extra $30-$40.Off the bat i was concerned that a number of users posed negative feedback about the magnetic speed control switch failing, but since most of these are pre 2009 i figured Dewalt has sorted this problem out and besides if the motor failed I could still use my Dw616 in all the sub bases and have a carry case for every thing. so I went ahead and pulled the trigger (pun intended)...Item Delivered fast, arrived in great shape and complete with all accessories as described.First off ...was very impressed with the case. Its solidly constructed looks like it can take a beating and is probably worth $50- $60 on its own, its internally moulded to securely hold and store all sub bases so they don't bang together during transport and I was surprised to find there was even a cutout in the case to hold the DW 6913 router edge guide that I bought as an add-on accessory (by the way this guide also fits the smaller base on the DW616 an added unlooked for bonus). I can store both routers mounted in the bases In this case along with a selection of bits ( all in their individual protective cases of course). Just be aware of its size 24" x 20" x 8" Instructions were clear concise and accurate making for easy set up. Bases have a quality feel and are very solid , well finished with comfortable handles that provide a firm non slip grip. Clear sub-bases for viewing of bits and workpiece were flat and true and all were properly centered. Plunge base , plunges and returns very smoothly , turret ( 5 steps one adjustable) has a quality feel with indexed points for sure positioning, depth setter took a little working out but works perfectly and accurately. Easy access handle mounted Plunge lock to hold tool in deployed position allowing for flat bottom mortices and dadoes. Shopvac hoses fit snuggly and dust/chip extraction works about 90% with some minor dust leakage.D handle base is a joy ( for me) to use with a built in trigger lock so you can lock the tool on and then concentrate on guiding and routing. My one nit pick here is the lock release, you have to pull the trigger to disengage the lock and it has been a bit fiddly on one or two occasions but this may just be me working out the correct trigger technique.Tool is surprisingly quiet, when compared to the smaller dw616, love the soft start and adjustable speeds, plenty power , super smooth in operation . Ran a series of plunge cuts for 1/2" wide by 2" deep mortices with a (freud) 1/2" upcut spiral bit with very clean results. Switched to the d handle with 3/4" double flute bit and ran test dadoes of varying depth without a hitch. Bit change out is a snap with the built in spindle lock and changing motor in between bases took all of 1-1/2 minutes including, changing the bit, reinstalling the fine depth setting ring on the motor ( ring not used with the plunge base ) and resetting the speed.Some one took their time designing this tool thinking through a lot of the finer details . All in all im very pleased. Great value for me!!!!!!!!!

Purchased this DeWalt set primarily because it came with the D handle and plunge base attachments and included a case that fits all accessories. I was really pleased with how well the 20v dewalt palm router and plunge base works that I decided to try the larger corded version to help with the construction of numerous dovetailed drawer boxes. This set works great and was pretty reasonably priced.The D handle alone is amazing. I've never had that kind of control over a router before and now that I have, there's no turning back. The plunge base is also very easy to use and I prefer it over the porter cable that I own.If you have a need for a router, spend the extra money and get the full kit with accessories. You won't be disappointed.

I bought this combo about 2 years ago. I have the router motor mounted in a quik lift from woodpecker most of the time, but occasionally use by hand and it's really nice having the option of the grips. Plunge is my most used grip.I've used it for edging and for raised panels using a vertical bit (panel is verticle instead of flat to the table). I've had no issues at all and found this be very good compared to to a PC and much better value if you ask me. PC is the name and are great, but they know it so they charge a premium. I thought this was a good compromise. I have access to the Humber College night school shop (Toronto, Ontario, Canada and and excellent program) and we use PCs there and I don't notice any difference. I'm not a professional so I don't put it through a lot of hours of continuous use, but it certainly does the job for me and has held up without wear.Very happy with it and have recommended to many friends. The carry case is a nice have. Also, I've used the variable speed to deal with White Oak and Cherry versus Mahogany and poplar and pine. I like the detachable power cord and the location of the power switch.Good job Dewalt.