With a set of hex keys for simple height adjustment, the Rockler Pro router lift allows you to easily make bit changes above the table. Not all routers will work with router lifts. Compatibility: Models 4211, 4213, 4215, 43776PC, 43743PC, 43014PC, 43777PC, 42037, 42040, 42046, 42054, and 42237. Users will enjoy above-table adjustments, as well as a locking mechanism, for maintaining a consistent ideal height while routing custom millwork or joinery. We also found that the instructions are poorly written and didnt help us install the router lift. Thus, if you are a heavy user looking for something out of the ordinary, then this model will be an appropriate match. It is Incras collar system that makes it truly interesting. Stay up to date on industry news and trends, product announcements and the latest innovations. See all products TABLE SAWS When it comes to table saws, the JessEm Tool Company offers a variety of gauges and guides for more precise cuts. It is the userss responsibility to apply for any required permits or consents and to build in accordance with the local building code.Although all due care is taken, no responsibility is accepted by Buildeazy for any wrongful information, omissions, or any other irregularities regarding any plan set or Buildeazy article. Any recommendations are appreciated. Are you tired of constantly removing your router from therouter tableeach time you have to change a bit? Fixed-base routers are another option, but replacing fixed routers isnt very straightforward. Kreg PRS5000 Router Lift - Best Value For The Money Kreg PRS5000 is a rugged and simple to operate lift which is supplied with three self-levelling twist lock insert rings. The BD includes a decent router table fence, which can mount either inboard or outboard of the router bit (there are two sets of mounting slots for the fence in the table extension.) Fewer vibrations allow for more accurate material removal and a better-looking finished product. There is a serious downside to using the INCRA router is that it only works with Rockler tables, so unless you have one, this option is off the table. Before getting a router lift, you must be sure the plunge will fit into the lift. The Jessem looks nearly identical to the Incra with the exception of the rings, as expected since Jessem makes the Incra rebranded unit. The INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift is a fantastic router lift. We highly recommend looking for a model that provides locking functionality. Easy to assemble and use. With the handle for raising and lowering your lift, you can turn to the right to lock the router in place and work for long hours. The lift aids you get accurate readings while routing. Users can use the various jigs, templates, and router bits to connect them with many different models. If your router allows you to separate the motor from the base, you can attach the motor to a router lift. With this product, precision would be your friend. Precise adjustment without backlash . BACKYARD WOODSHOP 14.7K subscribers Subscribe 129K views 5 years ago I compare Incra Ls Positioner, against the Kreg Router Fence and. Thomasnet Is A Registered Trademark Of Thomas Publishing Another innovation is the micro-adjust thumb wheel. When it comes to long-term durability, material is a significant factor. This allows universal kits to fit motors from just over 4 inches in diameter to some as small as 3 inches. The product offers optimum versatility and a high level of accuracy for height adjustments on the router. Check the plate size that fits your router table before buying the router lift. When you purchase products through our independent recommendations, we may earn an affiliate commission. However, this quality comes with a cost as the INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift is quite expensive, one of the most expensive on this list. Once the wrench is locked in place, a micro-adjust thumbwheel lets you make tiny adjustments for complete accuracy. The top plate of this router lift is made of hard-anodized aluminum. Remember, if you plan on changing your router or table in the future, you will have to check the compatibility again, so you may want to look at some of the options youll have. You can also change the router bit from above the table using the lift to extend it out. Thomas Register and However, be careful when purchasing and make sure your router can fit perfectly before you place any orders. We will keep you posted. The KREG PRS5000 Precision Router Lift is our pick as the best router lift overall. For a router to work with a router lift, it must be able to separate from the base. Check the technical components of the router carefully. If you use a plunge router, on the other hand, you are limited to just two types of lift which are the woodpecker Unilift and the Jet/Powermatic EXACTA-lift. You would make all adjustments to the height the same way. The anodized aluminum provides clean cuts while offering long tool life. Pivoting Router Lift OFL3.0K in KREG format - pivot-5- to 50- for router motors with neck holder 43 mm exact height fine adjustment & magnetic reduction plates. Quick and easy set up with straightforward instructions, Can work with plenty of router table options, You will have to count the turns of the height-adjustable handle if you wish to come back to the previous bit position after locking in the bit in a new position, Difficult to center the router on your table if you have bushings on it, Router reducer collars (included): 3 1/4 & 3 1/2, Not compatible with quality routers like the Bosch router. Most router lifts used a crank handle with the hex end that fits into the lift and allows a user to turn it to raise or lower the router. Can I use my old Router and Router Table? Its six-depth stop position provides accurate height adjustments allowing this router lift to protect from accidents without the need to buy a new router lift. Insert Size 8 1/4" x 11 3/4" Compatible Routers Porter-Cable 7518/7519 WITH OPTIONAL ADAPTER: Bosch 1617/1618 series Dewalt 610/618 series Porter-Cable 690/890 series $360 To increase stability while using for router lift, consider the sizes of the mounting plate and make sure it fits perfectly to the router table. Thus, you will avoid buying a new router lift when you change your router. Twisting clockwise will lift the router, while twisting counterclockwise will lower it. It fits most fixed-base routers and features an anodized top plate. A router lift is a mount that drops into a work surface, turning any bench with adequate space underneath into a router table. Dont assume the router lift plate will accurately fit your router tables opening. Mind you, there are two sizes of this lift and the one . Additional parts like rings and side brackets will surely back you a few dollars. The cam lock feature intuitively locks the router table at one spot when you turn it to the right. To help you make the right choice when you get a router lift, here are some frequently asked questions about router lifts: A router lift comes with a mounting plate and a carriage system that mainly use the ball bearing mechanism. It fits most routers, thats why its our pick for best overall. Best Budget Router Lift - JessEm Rout-R-Lift II. Before purchasing a router lift, you must check the manufacturers specifications on essential details likecompatible routers. However, it is essential to know that this project can handle only minimal to average projects. DeWalt 610/618/616 (3.5" Motor Dia.) It's made from quality parts that can also rival high-end router lifts. A ball-bearing mechanism uses 5 bearings to ensure smooth movement throughout the range of the tool. Each of the products comes with a DeWalt that never shakes. Some of them are brand- and model-specific, while others offer a more universal approach. Sometimes, having the money to invest or the space to store a router table is not an option, but, thankfully, a professional router lift can serve as a great replacement. If you choose a ball-bearing mechanism lift, its important to keep it lubricated. These rings drop into the surface of the router lift and close off some of the gap between the bit and the table surface. The reason is that you have to prevent the wood chips from getting into the adjustment tool so the router lift system can last long, longer than you can use. Once the user finds the ideal adjustment for the router bit, locking the motor in place is essential for consistent results. you should make sure this route lift fits perfectly without reeling the crank gauge. It also has a system of double-sealed bearings that allow for smooth height adjustments while also being durable enough for heavy routers. Top Plate Dimensions: 9 1/4" 11 3/4" x 3/8". Rogers lifts are known to be heavy products weighing up to 20 pounds. It also includes 3 self-leveling Twist-Lock rings for installing the lift on any table. Welcome to the Thomas guide to the best router lifts 2023. Its made from quality parts that can also rival high-end router lifts. I just need a decent lift/router when I need to round over or chamfer something. The PORTER-CABLE 6931 is a replacement basefor plunge routers models 690, 9690, and 691. Some high-end models will also include micro-adjustments made by turning the adjustment knob in small increments for dialing in very specific settings. This mechanism is handy when making tiny adjustments. This allows the user to use different-size router bits while the interchangeable rings support the workpiece, promoting stability and preventing unnecessary tear-out. The user can improve the efficacy and productivity of this route lift by fine-tuning the bits' adjustments. Thanks to the built-in chain-synchronized design, the adjustment mechanism is very sharp and responsive. Key features: Variable speed: 8,000 to 24,000 RPM This table-mounted type router lift increases the efficiency by hassle-free fine-tuning of the bits measurement. 28 Results Filter By Corner Routing Guide Set $39.99 New Flush-Trim Bit 1/4" Shank $16.99 New Flush-Trim Bit 1/2" Shank $24.99 New All router lift has this information to guide buyers. Features: Hard anodized 9-1/4" x 11-3/4" CNC machined aluminum plate. What is the mechanism behind the router lift? Universal routers achieve a flexible fitment by offering adapters and collars designed to fit a range of motors. Both Rockler and Kreg have fairly new lifts out. The 22-1/2" deep x 26-1/2" wide stand is made of 2mm & 3mm thick powder-coated steel and is height adjustable from 22-1/4" to 43-3/4" tall in 1" increments. Pete has been working in the trades since high school, where he first developed a passion for woodworking. The five sealed ball bearings on the lifting screw and the exclusive cam locking system provide smooth operation with minimal effort. Compatibility: PORTER-CABLE 690/890, Bosch 1617/1618, DeWALT 610/618/616, and Craftsmans 1754/17540/28190 models. Better lifts will allow you to make the table level from above, while budget models will require plastic inserts to level it. The crank handle and the thumbwheel are the standard height adjustments mechanisms on a router lift. Best Router Lift with Locking Mechanism - JessEm Mast-R-Lift II 02120. NEW AND IMPROVED: The Bosch RA1165 Under-Table Router Base is the new base for the 1617 1618 series routers, replacing the RA1164. The table has a built-in chain mechanism that raises and lowers the table the same distance on all 4 posts at once. It has a 16 tooth per inch (TPI) lift screw mechanism for even more control over the table height. This responsibility falls greatly on the low-friction ball bearing system. The INCRA MagnaLOCK reducing ring system magnetically snaps rings into place so you can change them instantly, and it includes 5 steel reducing rings for using different sized routers. This model features a smaller 8-1/4-Inch by the 11-3/4-Inch top plate with reliable two sealed ball bearings. Using a Router lift has its own benefits, and any woodworking professional or enthusiast must have one. One of the most critical factors you must consider when getting a router is choosing between plunge and fixed types. You need to get yourself a router lift! Best for Casual Use: GoPlus Electric Aluminum Router Table; 10. One thing we liked about this router was the price. JessEm Rout-R-Lift has a dedicated lock mechanism that prevents the rotation of the axle. Fits all Kreg router tables and many competitive brands. This drop-in kit features an 8-inch by 11-inch aluminum work surface that will fit in many smaller router tables, and it also is suitable for custom setups on smaller workbenches. This material is specially designed and engineered with high-resistant elements to ensure it doesnt wear off with rigorous usage. The PRS5000 is an upgrade of the PRS3000, with Kreg paying more attention to accuracy and precision. Great for making small adjustments in height. Thus, it saves you time and makes it easier to use your router. Incra vs Kreg -- Router Tables Winner Declared!! The lift comes with a grip-like carriage fixed onto the router. Mounted it in a SawStop iron TS wing. The Kreg PRS5000 and the Rockler Pro Lift. Privacy Statement and To ensure you get a clean-cut, consider rooting the end of the grains of the wood project you are working on before their edges. The Rockler is more expensive and you got to buy more stuff besides what it comes with. In the educative piece above, you will have a list that fits every budget, requirement, and usage level. Its durable, accurate, and smooth. Most Advanced Table: JessEm Mast-R-Lift Excel II Connect and transact with thousands of top North American companies today. Router lifts have many uses, and it is good to understand the versatility and freedom they give you for all of your projects. With jig bases and templates, the PORTER-CABLE 4216 router lift is a multi-compatible router model with a wood capacity of -inch to 1 -inch. Unique clamping system fits most fixed-base router . This project is to be undertaken at the users own risk. Users are also required to check and clean the affected area and parts of the router lifts before every use. One thing to keep in mind is that a rockler table will only fit a router lift sold by rockler, I don't recall the size offhand but the kreg is a more "standard" size that fit the incra, jessem or woodpecker lifts. Some models feature cam locking systems that lock the adjustment spindle and mechanisms in place to prevent vibration from inadvertently adjusting the height. If theres uncertainty about a routers size, measuring across the motor with a measuring tape or ruler will help. If you are into craft equipment from JessEm, you should check out the Mast-R-Lift. These mounts are pre-drilled to save you the stress of drilling on your own. The router lift is made of anodized aluminum. . Kreg Router Tools - Router Bits, Router Table Tops, Table Inserts Routing System Components From router bits to parts for a custom router setup, take your routing to the next level with our Routing System Components. Woodworkers in production shops or scenarios can benefit from Incras Mast-R-Lift-II-R router lift. The router lift is great to have. Compatibility: 1617, 1617EVS, 1617EVSPK, 1618 and 1618EVS routers. I'm looking at router lifts and trying to discern if there is a big advantage/disadvantage over the major players (Rockler, Jess-Em, Kreg, Woodpeckers, etc). With the KREG PRS5000 Precision Router Lift, you advance your routing capabilities as it gives you control whenever you are doing router setup changes and changing the bits. At that point, a screw-type adjustment rod lifts the router up and down, bringing the bit above and below the work surface. At the same time, the fixed router offers more precision as it has a router base.Thus, if you are looking for a router with more versatile functions, you should go for the plunge type. Below are some of the benefits of using a Router lift in your woodworking project: JessEm so far has been consistent with their router lift, and this product is evidence of how they consider all levels artisans. Be sure to compare each one carefully before deciding on one. The router offers more accuracy and precision. You must pay attention to the plate size of a router lift before you purchase. Its 3/8-inch thick solid aluminum construction is durable and lightweight. With a positive lock mechanism that keeps your gear stable and secure for the duration of your job, you can easily take elevation measurements to get precise control over any projects that come across your router table. Router lifts allow you to raise and lower your router motors a lot easier and faster. The Woodpeckers Precision PRL-V2-420 Router Lift is our premium choice router lift. You should go for a router lift with this system so you will enjoy smooth height adjustments while routing. The new Mast-R-Lift II fits most fixed base router motors on the market right out of the box. By Tom Scalisi Updated Mar 30, 2021 1:39 PM. With this mechanism, you can accurately carry out height adjustments. Aluminum is much lighter than steel, so it might be the better choice for a router lift. And while there are a half dozen routers in the running the top brand and performance make Makita a professionals choice. Bosch RA1165 Router Lift - Best Budget Router Lift 4. As the founder of House Grail, Pete's primary goal is to help consumers make educated decisions about DIY projects at home, in the garage, and in the garden. Copyright 2023 Thomas Publishing Company. We like the crank handle better, but the thumbscrew allows you to make extremely precise height adjustments. The Kreg precision router lift is different for professionals who arent ready to sacrifice height adjustments and accuracy on the altar of price. Its a good system that allows for accurate measurements with little effort. The Master lift has a better plate and can accept a larger motor. Router lifts features the component called rugged base plate which is needed during the routing process for increased stability. This is the R-version and not the regular version, and its only for Rockler tables. Makita 1101 (3.218" Motor Dia.) Commonly, the SawStop RT-LFT Four-Post Router Lift with Lock features adaptive collars. One of the distinct advantages of this router is that you can adjust heights and even change out yourrouter bitsabove the table.. Before you start shopping for a router lift, there are a few important features to consider. Height adjustments and bit changes occur above the table, eliminating bench wrenches. The Kreg Precision Router Lift provides a router setup with high precision and it has a micro-adjusting wheel (for 1/1000th of an inch) which works quite perfectly. The ball bearing mechanism allows for smooth movement as the lift up and down. Router tables are an option when it comes to both manual labor and when using an electric hand sander. Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made. You don't want to buy a router lift that won't fit your router. It allows you to change your routing bits from above the table and complete control over all adjustments. The base plate offers extra stability during long routing sessions. The Jessem Mast-R-Lift-II has adjustable blocks that securely hold a wide range of router motors. Website Last Modified March 4, 2023. The more complex the installation the more chance there is for error and the more parts you need to purchase, the better the chance they wont be available. The collars typically come in sizes to fit the router motor such as 3, 3, and 4 inches. With a bit of familiarization with router lifts and how to choose the best one, shopping for the best router lift becomes a bit more straightforward. Scroll down to read more about our top picks for the best router lift for router tables. . One customer complimented, I installed this in my all-in-one work center. Mechanical Router Lift OFL2.0K in KREG format Siphonic Jet vs Gravity-Fed Toilet: Which One Should You Choose? Copyright 2023 House Grail. They can be used for the sanding, shaping, and detailing of different wood. Standard plate size. Over the years, he has developed a keen interest in a wide variety of DIY projects around the home. Anyone looking to get more from their 3-inch router without breaking the bank may want to check out JessEm's Rout-R-Lift II. You can set the depth of your router bit without needing to measure it. See all products JOINERY ACCESSORIES Bosch RA1165. It has elevated my precision while reducing setup times.. We also source locally made router table components (like our router . Theres an above-table lock as well as multiple table insert collars for a variety of bit sizes. Common sizes include 9 inches by 11 inches, and 8 inches by 11 inches. A router lift is a valuable addition to the already existing tools in your workshop. When it comes to the JessEm Mast-R-Lift II 02120 Router Lift, 9-1/4-Inch By 11-3/4-Inch, we can only say that this product is for users on a budget and who didnt plan on spending so much on a router lift. Overall, the JessEm Rout-R-Lift II router lift (US$219.99, Amazon) earns the best lift title as its able to be used with most 3.5-inch diameter motors and is impressively priced under US$200. Still, it doesnt work with popular router tables such as Kreg-brand unless users purchase a conversion kit which would cost more, coupled with the fact that the INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift is pricey. A router lift is an extra router plate designed to fit into the router. This router lift is an economical alternative versus compatible routers that commonly cost US$200 or more, wrote one customer. Weve chosen six of the most popular router lifts to review for you so you can get some behind the scenes information about how they work. The Best Wood Routers for Beginners in the Workshop. If you want to upgrade to a different top later, you don't want to buy new plates or, gasp, new lift. Here is a list of the best router lifts, followed by a buying guide to help you select the best router lift for your needs.