DEWALT DW625 3 HP Variable Speed Electronic Plunge Router

I have had this router for 8 years now. I have one other large router, a top-of-the line Fein. I used to prefer the Fein, as it runs more quietly, has a nice on-off switch, and is lighter.

But now I'm leaning towards the Dewalt, for two reasons. First, while the Fein's on-off switch is easy to use, you can also accidentally turn it on if you set the router down on it. Not so with the Dewalt. The Dewalt also locks securely in the on position underneath a router table, while I've found that engaging the trigger lock on the Fein is troublesome when turned upside down.

The other reason--durability. Eight years without a repair! I've had to replace the collet lock mechanism on my Fein twice (it just broke). I use the Dewalt frequently, and haven't even had to change the brushes.

Now, I've read a complaint or two about the on-off switch, how it is cumbersome to use. I struggled with it for years, cursing the damned thing--only to realize in the end that I wasn't using it properly! You'll see from the photo--the switch is big on the top, and sort of lips over the handle, giving the impression that you should turn it on by pushing up on the lip. Not so! Turn it on by pushing from the round part, underneath the handle. Very easy and accessible.

While this is a heavy router, I've come to appreciate the advantage of heavy. Hey--you are buying a 3 hp router--this means you want to eat wood fast from time to time. And when you are really eating wood, that extra heft is nice--makes the thing stay put. I use it often for cutting circles. When you are cutting a circle, you get the grain of the wood at every possible angle. At some point, you are likely to get it in such a manner that the router may lurch. But this monster--well, it's more likely to stay put.

I like the depth adjustment; it has remained accurate and solid over the years. It's one of the easiest to use, as it has a little adjustable plastic piece that magnifies an adjustment bar.

My only caveat is that the base will only accept bits up to 2-1/2" diameter. Too bad for such a powerful router, which is capable of handling more.

I have the Dewalt 2 hp kit as well, with the 3 bases. If I had to choose only one router, I'd go for the 3 base kit (see my review). But, I like the 3-hp woodeating monster when I'm ready to chew big-time, particularly very hard woods, or when I need that extra wide base for increased stability, as when I'm cutting a glue joint for a tabletop. And after 8 years, the plunge action is still smooth as ever. This router may outlive me. I'm starting to love yellow.

The quick release nut is now a constant release nut. The fine adjustment is poorly designed. When I tighten the knob to lock it down, the adjustment bar actually moves from where I set it--not good. In the full plunge position, the bit does not travel far enough out of the router. You should not have to raise a bit in the collet to expose the full profile. The power is fine, but I bought this to run a panel bit set. My panel cutter doesn't fit through the opening in the base, so I have to try to insert and tighten the bit in the plunge position. I suppose that last one is my fault for not checking that ahead of time.

I recieved my router in perfect condition within days after ordering it. I recommend this merchant!

I have one Porter-Cable router and FIVE DW-625s. Do the math. This is one of the finest power tools I have ever used and I use them a lot. I have two mounted under-table, one I use hand-held, one is mounted on a router crafter (router lathe), and the other is mounted under the bed of my table saw and with a spindle and is used as a very good shaper. Parts are very easy to obtain through Dewalt's Service Net and tech support is superb. Use a foot switch for dead man operation. I may buy another to use as a pillow!

I will say this router has plenty of power for woodworking, but I am in the solid surface market, and it works good with smaller bits, but the big bits, it seems a little under powered. All in all the plunge works good, and I like the design of the switch. I just wish they made a 3 1/2 hp.

I just ordered the Festool 2000 to replace it.