WHAT IT DOES

A plunge router, used primarily in woodworking, is a tool that plunges a cutting bit into the workpiece, from above. Its key feature (the plunging) means you can adjust the cutting depth while the router is in operation. Useful for tasks requiring different depths of cuts within the same workpiece. It is great to produce decorative edges, inlays, grooves, dadoes, mortises, and intricate designs.

For a smaller and easier to handle tool, but less powerful, borrow a trim router instead. To rout small pieces and awkward angles, a router table would be great. It allows you to feed material to the bit for a consistent finish.

Full complement of accessories for parallel routing and using router guides included. Please see photo attached. 


ABOUT THIS TOOL

  • Can be used with many homemade or professional jigs such as ETL8720 (MTL) and ETL2153 (PTL) 

SAFETY INFORMATION & PPE

Do not touch the hot tip of the heat gun. It will remain hot enough to harm for a good few minutes after use.
When putting down the tool on a workspace after use, ensure that the tip is pointed upwards and away from any surfaces to prevent damage.
Heat Safe Work Gloves – Recommended if likely to touch the workpiece whilst still hot.
Mask & Ventilation – Recommended if used on plastic or paint there might be a release of harmful chemicals.
Safety glasses – Recommended if you will be removing paint, as hot flakes might fly up in the air.
Safety glasses, ear protection, and other PPE are available for a suggested donation at check out.

YOU MAY ALSO NEED
  • Router bits!Essential. They usually come as a set containing different profiles which will cut different shapes.
  • ClampsEssential to hold your work securely in place and prevent it from moving.
  • ExtractionRecommended. Routers produce a huge amount of dust and using them inside without extraction will cause a huge mess! You may be able to fit your vacuum cleaner to the router as a form of extraction (duct tape works a treat in this scenario!)
  • SpannerRecommended. To change the bits - most routers come with its own tool to change the bits but check anyway.
  • Router TableUseful. To allow you to securely fix your router upside down – keeping both of your hands free to run the wood over the router, rather than running the tool over the workpiece. This can help with control and safety in particular on small or fiddly jobs.

HOW TO USE IT

Plunge routers are best used in small depth increments. Time consuming (fo sho!) but ensures you cut cleanly and accurately making sure you don’t overwork the tool.

Remember also to release the plunge mechanism and carefully lift the bit out of the workpiece only ONCE it has stopped spinning BEFORE moving the router away from the workpiece.

A top tip when cutting material, if you’re not sure, use a longer bit. You can always adjust the depth!

INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEOS

Note this video is a general introduction and is not specific to this exact tool. We always advise reading the manual if provided below, especially the safety advisories, before using any tools.