PORTER-CABLE 450PK 1.25 HP Compact Router Fixed/Plunge Combo Kit with DNP618 Edge Guide for Fixed Base Compact Router

I framed and finished housed for 13 years then got my Mechanical Engineering degree so yes I'm a tool snob. I've been buying Porter Cable tools since the 80's when they were still made in the USA. This one did not disappoint and was joy to run. I like the fact PC doesn't overthink their stops and latches they way Bosch does which if you do a lot of production work could become very aggravating. Made in Mexico, happy to support the neighbors to the south far better quality control then China and my way small way of fighting the war on drugs close to home without building walls.

It's perfect works great

Twenty five years ago I bought an Elu 3338 and have never regretted buying it for one moment; but since the 3338 is a fairly heavy medium sized router I have always wanted a smaller machine that would allow me to feel closer to my work. When the Dewalt 611 and it's brother the Porter-Cable 450PK debuted I knew I had to buy one; but which one. The differences between the two is only that the Dewalt has a LED, variable speed control and is yellow and black.I chose the Porter-Cable because I knew I would never need variable speed control with a router that only accepted 1/4 inch bits and I felt the LED was nice but not necessary. Another major deciding factor was at the time of purchase there was a $35 price difference between the two, plus I also prefer silver and black with a splash of red to bumble bee yellow and black.I have frequently used the 450 for over two years and have been very happy with it's performance. I have three routers and it has become my first choice if the job allows the use of a 1/4" bit which is actually about 75% of the time. It has plenty of power and is easy to control with one hand. Bit change is very simple by pressing the red button to lock the armature and then turn the collet with the supplied wrench. My only major dislike is the difficult to operate rocker arm switch that has a thick transparent plastic dust proof cover, a simple metal toggle switch would be a great improvement.I feel that the 450PK is a good choice for a second router, but I can't recommend it for an only router because it just accepts 1/4 inch bits.

SOMETIMES I GET TIRED OF SUPPORTING MY MUCH HEAVIER FULL SIZE DEWALT ROUTER SO I THOUGHT I WOULD GO FOR A COMPACT ONE TO MAKE IT A LITTLE EASIER ON MYSELF. IT IS A GREAT PRICE (I GOT TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE $20 OFF PROMOTION). I HAVEN'T USED IT A WHOLE LOT YET BUT I CAN TELL IT WILL GET ME THROUGH MOST PROJECTS. WHEN IT JUST LACKS ENOUGH POWER I WILL SWITCH TO MY LARGER ONE, IF AND ONLY WHEN ITS NEEDED. WHAT A RELIEF!

well here goes Both bases of the router have are clear plastic and the have no lines to center the clear plastic base with the spindle. After looking at the instructions the pictured a center tool and reading the text that went with the picture, it stated that I must buy the centering tool as a accessory. Wait just a minute i need to buy an accessory to perform the basic operations of this router, i am appalled. I called porter cable and they stated that they would sent me a centering tool at not cost....however it is on back order and their is no promise date for when it might be delivered. this upset me as i laid down my money and in my eyes the sent me a incomplete package. so i eyeball it until i get the centering tool...whenever that maybe!bill

Product is good but needs an easier way of setting and adjusting the bits. It takes a while to get use to removing the motor from the base to change the bits. The adjustment ring is the weak point of the unit as it can be forced out of engagement with the motor adjustment ring. The two release levers need to be of stronger material as these are what release so easily. The precision of the two guide posts on the plunge base keep the error in the vertical movement to a minimum. The centering guide for the plastic base plate needs to come with the combo kit and not as an accessory and purchased separately. Note that the DeWalt 1-1/4hp. compact router is for all purposes the same but the accessory prices are not. Compare the prices and buy accordingly.

Have not used it yet, but looks like the smaller version of my full sized Porter Cable fixed/plunge combo kit the body is cast aluminum (that was the selling point for me) there is another model similar to this one out there for less money with a plastic body lot of the reviews said they had trouble with it staying in place and would vibrate loose I've even seen pictures of guys using hose clamps to keep it in place not a good idea. Has all the same features on the plunge base as my larger kit has depth stop/ height adjustments etc... Only drawback is it's a fixed speed router no adjustment on the speed great tool looking forward to using it.

My first try with a router was successful. This router performed well. The only thing I was missing wasa router table. I had to set up my own guide and fencing using clamps and pieces of wood. It would havebeen much easier with a table. This router lived up to its reputation.

Great product.... really really a very high quality and powerfull though accessories are hard to find cause it doesn't come with any think .... but if u r going to spend money for a good product I would recommend it ....

I love this little router. It is much easier to handle than a full size router but heavier than a laminate trimmer, this hits the sweet spot, best of both worlds. Perfect for work with template guides.

It was just what we needed and arrived very quickly. we're very happy.

I did not use it yet but I know I will like it when I use it .