ON TEST
We’ve been using this tool for a few months now, and have put it through the test on a few builds, including on the ‘word clock’ from issue 20. It’s done its job in each build. Bits have been spun, wood has been carved, and objects have been created. On that very basic level, it's worked, but we do have a couple of fairly serious reservations about this tool.
By far and away the biggest limitation of the Dremel router is the chuck/collet size – it’s far smaller than those on regular routers. The Dremel router needs bits with a 3 mm shaft, while the standard is 6 mm.
The result is that there are far fewer bits available for Dremel routers. The official bit set of seven bits sells for £29, and there’s also a common ten-piece set that sells under a range of off-brand names that expands on it slightly and contains:
• Slot cutter diameter 3.2mm
• Slot cutter diameter 5.0mm
• Slot cutter diameter 6.5mm
• Rounding over cutter diameter 6.4mm
• V-Slot cutter diameter 6.5mm
• Combi cutter 6.5 / 2.5mm
• Core box bit 3.2mm radius
• Rebating cutter 6.4mm
• Edge cutter with pin diameter 5.0mm
• Half-round cutter diameter 13mm
As far as we’ve been able to tell, these are the only bits available with a 3 mm shaft. If you don’t see all the bits you’ll need here, then it’s probably not the router for you.
The other thing we’re not keen on is how unsubstantial it is. Plunge routers typically have a bit of heft to them, and this can make them a bit easier to control. The plastic-with-metal-rods construction is, at best, OK. It’s not really flimsy, but there’s a little more bend to it than we’d like. All the adjusters are
a bit more sticky and jumpy than we’d like. All this means that you have to take a bit more care than usual to get your cuts in the right place.
We had hoped that this router would save some workshop space, but unfortunately, it doesn’t pack up particularly small – perhaps a little smaller than a regular router, but not much.
There’s certainly a case for this router. It’s cheaper than even the cheapest plunge routers by 30–50% (if you’ve already got a compatible rotary tool). If you want a battery-powered setup, then the cost saving is even more.
There’s an environmental win by not bringing another electric motor and associated control electronics into the world if you don’t need to. It’s certainly capable of some reasonable routing, and if all you need is carving some grooves using the fence as a guide, then it’s worth considering.
However, it’s no substitute for a proper plunge router. If you need the full range of bits, or if you’re going to be using it regularly, a purpose-designed tool will do the job better and easier.
Verdict 7 out of 10
Can handle basic routing jobs, but not as well as a dedicated tool.
$28.99 www.dremel.com
