First project w Router and other woodworking tools

[tstex]

Thank you very much LS, egon, Sranch, DAVE & civilian...really appreciate it.

Based on almost 3 decades of working, building and maintaining a 100 acre ranch, house, 11 utility bldgs & sheds and 19 combustion-based engines [including my 1996 Kubota M5400S], I have learned a view things, even some woodworking. But, the woodworking has all been on a macro level, not super detailed finishing work as what I want to do now. But, I have always consulted w the"old-timers" out there b4 I work on major projects. They like to pass on their knowledge and they always keep long term maintenance in mind, so I know that experience counts...but, each yr I need less for ranch type projects bc of my own experience.

Now, for beginning with micro w-working, that's where you guys come in....know I have to ante-up and start learning, and by some mistakes. But, I know to use the same wisdom of those that have done decades of w-working, but it's over time we learn and figure what tools we really need and what techniques we employ. And I'm deeply appreciative of your kindness w your time and experience. I have my router and some wood here in Hou and will start practicing today.

Now, I’m going out to the ranch this coming Tues. I’ll take pics of the wood I just cut and use a sq to test edges. I’ll also take pics of the 2 pieces of wood I’m going to use to make the coffee table. If there’s any particular angle or shot you need, pls let me know?

Again, thank you all, tstex

 

[tstex]

Guys,

As I have watched more and more video's, reading articles, I am convinced [as you have all stated] that I will need a router [plunge] and router table.

Can you pls tell me for someone that has never used a router before, are these two options a good introduction to routing? If not, pls recommend something else. I sill have my 18V 1/4" cordless too. They both include a Bosch router, plunge option and router table, but the first link also has a router guide kit too. thank you very much !

Bosch 1617EVSPK 12 Amp 2-1/4-Horsepower Plunge and Fixed Base Variable Speed Router Kit with Benchtop Router Table and Deluxe Router Edge Guide - - Amazon.com

Amazon.com

 

[LS Tractor Owner]

I picked this up at Lowes just over a year ago. I am very impressed with the quality and price point. I have used the router by itself, and like it too.

https://www.lowes.com/pd/Kobalt-1-4-in-and-1-2-in-Amp-Fixed-Corded-Router-Table-and-Tool-Only/1000318615?store_code=1543&cm_mmc=shp-_-c-_-prd-_-tol-_-ggl-_-LIA_TOL_129_Power-Tools-_-1000318615-_-local-_-0-_-0&ds_rl=1286981&gclid=Cj0KCQjwz7uRBhDRARIsAFqjulmaHM8gp_4vWCVsZyiY33k0YnJ_xFnVxzOxsrqtBGga6L0-TuKJliIaAtvEEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds

 

[dstig1]

Can't go wrong with the Bosch. As previously noted, if you do this a lot, you will get tired of swapping out the router and will want multiples. But this gets you going solidly. Swapping between the 2 bases will be fast but the table will take more time to get it in and out.

 

[i7win7]

Have several routers, the 3 Hp router is best used with a table & lift kit. None of the big box stores tables on display seemed very sturdy to me. Kreg (the pocket jig company) sells a $10 dvd with plans (using pocket screws, of course) to build a plywood table. Used cedar on my drawer fronts.

 

[mapper]

Guys,

As I have watched more and more video's, reading articles, I am convinced [as you have all stated] that I will need a router [plunge] and router table.

Can you pls tell me for someone that has never used a router before, are these two options a good introduction to routing? If not, pls recommend something else. I sill have my 18V 1/4" cordless too. They both include a Bosch router, plunge option and router table, but the first link also has a router guide kit too. thank you very much !

Bosch 1617EVSPK 12 Amp 2-1/4-Horsepower Plunge and Fixed Base Variable Speed Router Kit with Benchtop Router Table and Deluxe Router Edge Guide - - Amazon.com

Amazon.com

I bought this model of Bosch router recently and was very disappointed with it. I do some pattern routing and found that with the template collars that they were impossible to center. Not sure if the router was manufactured incorrectly or not. Returned it and got a Metabo for about the same price, it came with a set of pattern collars and the tool to center them.
I was doubly disappointed in the Bosch in that I have a number of Bosch tools and have always been very pleased with them.

 

[mapper]

A router is much like a tractor, not much use without bits and attachments. They can soon add up to more than you paid for the router!

 

[tstex]

Ok, as promised, here are the pics of the 2 pieces of wood. Note that my JD Gator has a lot of irregularities, so it’s not the wood.

These are 2 mirror center cuts and the inside is perfectly straight per level. The outsides are live edges but I’m sq’ing them w interior.

I am going to plane them both to 2.5” from 2.70”. This will also give a very beautiful new face for the polyurethane.

Any insight per our original discussion is greatly appreciated.

Thank you very much
tstex

 

[LS Tractor Owner]

That's going to be a real nice table top for sure!