Fixed Routers

About Fixed Routers

Fixed routers are precision woodworking power tools designed for creating clean edges, grooves, and decorative profiles in timber and manufactured boards. Unlike plunge routers, these machines maintain a constant cutting depth once set, making them particularly effective for edge profiling, template work, and router table applications where consistent depth is essential. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a range of fixed routers from trusted brands including DeWalt and Bosch, available in both compact trim router formats and full-sized models to suit different workshop requirements.

Modern fixed routers combine powerful motors with user-friendly adjustment systems, available in both corded 240v and cordless 18v configurations. Compact trim routers like the DeWalt D26200 excel at lighter tasks such as laminate trimming and hinge recessing, whilst cordless brushless models offer exceptional portability for site work without compromising on performance. Whether mounted in a router table for production work or used handheld for edge details, fixed routers deliver the precision and reliability demanded by professional joiners and dedicated DIY enthusiasts.

Applications

Fixed routers are essential tools across numerous trades and woodworking applications:

• Joiners and Carpenters: Creating housing joints, rebates, and custom edge profiles in joinery work
• Kitchen Fitters: Worktop jointing, template work, and scribing when installing kitchen units
• Cabinet Makers: Producing precise grooves and decorative details in furniture construction
• Shop Fitters: Fabricating bespoke retail fixtures and architectural millwork
• Door Manufacturers: Routing hinge recesses, lock mortices, and decorative mouldings
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home renovations, fitted furniture projects, and decorative woodworking
• Maintenance Teams: On-site repairs and refurbishment work in commercial properties

Choosing The Right Fixed Routers

Power Source: Decide between corded 240v models for consistent workshop performance or 18v cordless options for site work and portability. Cordless brushless technology has advanced significantly, with tools like the DeWalt DCW604NT offering impressive runtime and power comparable to mains-powered alternatives.

Size and Capacity: Compact trim routers (400-800 watts) are ideal for laminate trimming and detail work, whilst full-sized routers handle heavier profiling and larger-diameter cutters. Match the tool's capability to your typical applications to avoid underpowered performance.

Collet Size: Quarter-inch collets accommodate most trim and edge profiling bits. Half-inch collets are necessary for larger profile cutters and provide greater rigidity with substantial bits. Some models accept both sizes with interchangeable collets.

Router Table Compatibility: If you plan to mount your router beneath a table, fixed base models are generally preferred due to easier depth adjustment access and lower centre of gravity. Verify mounting hole compatibility with your router table.

Adjustment Features: Quality micro-adjusters offering fine depth control make the difference between frustration and precision. Look for clear depth scales, positive locking mechanisms, and well-positioned controls for comfortable operation.

Safety Information

Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection when operating routers, as they generate high noise levels and flying debris. Dust masks rated FFP2 or higher are essential when routing MDF or treated timber, which produce harmful fine particles. Ensure workpieces are securely clamped before routing to prevent dangerous kickback. Feed the router against the cutter's rotation direction (typically left to right on outside edges) and never exceed the manufacturer's maximum RPM rating for any cutter. Disconnect power before changing bits or making adjustments, and inspect cutters for damage before each use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a fixed router and a plunge router?

Fixed routers maintain a constant cutting depth once set, making them ideal for edge work and router table use. Plunge routers allow you to lower the spinning bit into the workpiece during operation, better suited for mortising and stopped grooves. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks both types to suit different applications.

Can I use a cordless fixed router for professional work?

Modern 18v brushless cordless routers offer impressive power and runtime suitable for professional applications. They excel for site work where power access is limited, though corded 240v models remain preferred for continuous workshop use or very demanding applications with large cutters.

Do I need a 1/4" or 1/2" collet router?

Quarter-inch collets accommodate the vast majority of edge profiling and trimming bits, suitable for most DIY and light professional work. Half-inch collets are necessary for larger panel-raising bits and heavy-duty profiling where maximum rigidity is required. Some routers accept both sizes with interchangeable collets.