Review Summary-
Features-
- Router lift
- Storage built into the legs
- Tall Fence
- Laminiated MDF fence faceplates and table
- Miter slot on the table and the fence
- Router clamp for quick removal
- Includes Accessories – Miter gauge, two feather boards, 3 collar inserts and starter pin
- Dust hood
- Dust collection adapter
Specs-
- Table Size 26×16 inches
Tool Height 18 inches
The Bottom Line-
If you're in the market for a way to take your Router skills to the next level, look no further than the SKIL Router Table to get you there. SKIL has added a lot of new tools to their lineup in the last two years. As a woodworker myself though, I am most excited to see this addition, and hope it's a sign of more carpentry tools to come! ! SKIL has a great unit in their newest Router Table, and it's definitely keeping the trend of SKIL's value and feature rich tools true.
Router Tables are a must for anyone looking to add more complex joinery and precision to their shop. With a massive range of pricing, it can be really daunting to select which model and design will be best for you. Today we look at a new launch from SKIL that is sure to make a lot of users happy. Read on for more information in the SKIL Router Table Review.
About the Tool
SKIL Router Table Review
Routers are a really useful tool. I have mentioned before that they are easily my favorite tool in the shop, and all in, I have several models that I use consistently. My newest Router was the SKIL Router, which I also reviewed recently. It promised a lot of really neat features and easily earned its place in my workflow. When I heard that SKIL was launching a new Router Table, I instantly wanted to see what it was all about.
In general, Router Tables allow you to add additional precision and can truly take your projects to the next level. Add intricate details, joinery, and maintain accuracy with the fence, feather boards, and miter gauge. There is a lot of ways to do all of these things, but nothing is as efficient as a Router Table to go about it.
Standout Features
SKIL Router Table Review
SKIL packaged the Router Table well. Often tools like this tend to experience damage of some sort in transit, but the Router Table and its components were well protected. The front safety switch includes two plugs to attach your router as well as dust collection and can be turned on and off as well as lock the switch too.
One thing you will truly appreciate about this Router Table is the above table Router lift. This is wildly handy to have, as someone who spent many years adjusting the Router beneath the table, you can’t help but really appreciate how easy it is to insert the hex key and make adjustments.
The Table is laminated MDF for a smooth work surface. The table also has markings for quick measurements and aluminum tracks for durability.
SKIL integrated storage within their table legs to contain your bits, accessories, and inserts. SKIL also designed two adjustable shelves that allow you to keep your accessories more organized.
The addition of MDF faces over the thick plastic backing adds a smooth and durable surface to work from and allows you to work on taller pieces without losing accuracy.
Dust can be controlled by attaching a vacuum to the rear of the fence. The front cover is hinged over the router table opening and helps push dust back through the fence and into the collector. Additionally, this cover serves as a guard from the rotating router bit and your fingers and prevents the dust and woodchips from causing both a mess and a safety concern.
The aluminum mounting plate allows you to remove the router once installed easily and reclamp it to the table when needed. I always appreciate this as it makes removal and reinstallation much easier than starting from scratch every time.
The adjustments all around on the Table are great, easily remove or adjust the fence and fence plates with thumb knobs. Leveling the router from the top is easy as well with only a few screws to attach.
SKIL packaged a great range of accessories with their Router Table- 2 feather boards, a miter gauge, 3 inserts, and a starting pin.
Where to find it
SKIL Router Table Review
The SKIL Router Table is a brand new unit. Model # SRT1039 will retail for #139.00 and can be found at Lowe’s and Acme Tools. For the included accessories, you would be hard-pressed to find a better value.
As more retailers become available, keep your eye on this tool via the SKIL website, as I am sure more retailers will be added soon!
My Thoughts
SKIL Router Table Review
If you have followed SKIL for a while, you know they were once well known for their Benchtop tools. As I have watched them expand their Cordless Power Tool lineup, I have been hoping they would revamp this side too and add more stationary tools that users really need. Router Tables aren’t new to SKIL, but this updated version offers a slew of new features that are definitely worth checking out.
Something that stands out is the storage legs. I have seen this one other time in a Router Table, and I really like how SKIL set theirs up. They include adjustable shelves that you can store the collar inserts and your bits as well as other accessories, making this table a great option for users who need to take their router to the job site or want the ability to store the Router Table when not in use. It’s Relatively light, and with the ability to quickly remove the router, there is a lot of versatility in its mobility.
I was initially curious if the plastic legs would be sufficient support for a heavy tool like a router and for weight intense applications, but quickly found it was more than adequate. When assembled, the table is strong and sturdy so my concern there was quickly diminished. Like most Router Tables, there is some assembly prior to use, but it was relatively quick to put together. There are really only a handful of steps, but one of my biggest pieces of advice for users setting up a router table for the first time is to take the time to get it right. Especially on steps like leveling your router or leveling the table, you want to be sure it’s on point. Precision is really the biggest key in getting the most out of your Router Table.
As well, the additional accessories like the feather boards and miter gauge are all made well and allow for more applications on this Router Table. The thumb knobs mounts make for easy adjustments and allow you to quickly adjust, mount, and remove when needed. The track to insert accessories is smooth and solid, allowing your accessories to stay firm when mounted. The dust control is efficient and is worlds ahead of some options on the market today too. SKIL did a good job of well equipping this table’s accessory set to give the most versatility possible and prevent additional purchases from being necessary.
Router Tables are seen as an investment in general for all users, but SKIL managed to produce a really great unit that comes in below most of the comparable tables. I paired the SKIL Router Table with a SKIL Router, but it is compatible with the most common routers on the market. One thing is clear, SKIL has produced a solid Router Table with a lot of well-appreciated features. For beginning users looking to add more versatility or the professional who needs an alternate unit for mobile use, the SKIL is a solid buy with a lot of really great added bonuses.
Question does the Skil Router RT 1322 supplied
The 4mm Hex wrench that has been shown on every Utube video showing the unboxing and assembly of the table?