Dewalt Router Reviews, Fixed Base Router Reviews, Wood Router Reviews

DEWALT DW616 Fixed Base Router Review

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Review: DEWALT DW616 Fixed Base Router

Power9.2

Features9

Quality of Cut9.3

Value for Money9.3

9.2 out of 10

What's Hot?

Sub-base concentricity gauge ensures bit is perfectly aligned for maximum accuracy
Micro-fine depth adjustment ring gives you accurate depth adjustment in 1/64-inch increments
The handles are a nice, ergonomically-shaped rubber material which gives you a lot of control - important when routing freehand with a router as powerful as the DW616
Excellent value for money

What's Not?

You may need to drill out the 13/16-in. base opening to accommodate larger bits

Bottom Line The Dewalt DW616 is a simple, twist-to-adjust router with a lot going for it. Its depth scale is accurate. It has a gentle soft start, made smooth cuts, and is a very well-balanced machine with a low center of gravity. The grips give excellent control and the switch can be set up for left- and right-handers. Bit changes are easily handled with two wrenches which is easier than the single wrench/ spindle-lock system that some routers use. The only downside is that you may need to drill out the 13/16-in. base opening to accommodate larger bits. Overall it's a lot of router for your money.