We have always liked the Porter Cable Routers, but they still need to go through our power tool review steps. The first thing we noticed was the case. When we opened the case, the router was a tight fit. We usually like a little room for bits or other items that belong with the tool. We took the router out, unpacked everything, and tried to put it back. Obviously it fits back into the case, but there is no room for any other related items.
At first we though it might be heavier than the weight of 8lbs. After picking it up we found that it was extremely light because of the machined aluminum case and base it is made from. This is good news! You want a lighter router because you don't want to fight the weight of the tool. Heavier tools create more force when used, and this can wear a user out.
Cable Porter
The 1/4" and the 1/2" is a nice feature because most workers have both sizes of router bits. Putting the router bits in place is a breeze. The router comes with two wrenches that will let you tighten or loosen the collet. This is much easier if you set the router on a workbench instead of tying to hold on to the router. We were a little skeptical of the auto release system that keeps the bits from freezing up in the tool. Anyone who has ever had this happens knows it is very annoying. After setting the router up, the rest was a breeze. There is a t-bolt that will let you adjust the height of the router, this is a snap. Once you have the router at the proper height, you can fine tune the height using the micrometer adjustment. This is just a ring you turn with your hand. You can adjust it up to 1/128"
We started out with some sharp bits and ran it through pine. The router ate through that easily. The router just laughed at us. We went to a harder wood, oak, and then walnut. Again, it ran through these without heating up. Yes, we did have a sharp blade, but as a craftsman you should know that having a sharp blade is extremely important. Well, we were bored with this testing rather quick because the router was handling everything with ease. So we ran the router blade over a bunch of plywood, hoping the blade would dull down from the glue. Well, the router ran through that test fine. The bits didn't dull as quickly as we had hoped, so we filed them dull and tried the test again. Through the pine, the router ran fine. Then the oak and Walnut caused the motor to fight a little for some air. We did have a big bit and had it set deep. We took that bit out of the tool and it did slide out with no effort, so the auto release system seemed to work fine, but we weren't done testing it yet!
We put the bit back in and tightened it as much as possible. We then beat on the side of the bit to jam it in there. We also dropped the router straight on the top of the bit and then gave it a couple whacks with a hammer. We basically did everything possible to make sure the bit would not come out, even though no one in their right mind would do all these things. Next, we loosened the collet, and this time the bit didn't come right out. We did wiggle it, and pulled with a pair of pliers and with that, the router bit came out. This told us two things. First, under normal wear and tear, the auto release system should work well, and the bits should not get stuck. Second, once the bit is in the router, it will stay in the router. You shouldn't have any worries about it coming out, unless you want it to.
All the other tests we ran the router through passed with flying colors. We dropped the tool a couple different times and it held up fine. The max height we used for the drops was 7 feet. I was pleasantly surprised that the base of plastic didn't crack.
With a couple of tricks, this router was very easy to turn into a table router for use on a table saw extension. This makes the tool that much more attractive.
After using the tool for a long time, our arms felt fine. We did not experience any vibrations what so ever.
Over all, our power tool review for the Porter Cable router is EXCELLENT. We were extremely impressed with this power tool. This router has great power and wonderful features. Any craftsman should be proud to have this router in his/her wood shop.
Pro's
Good power, Comes with 1/4" and 1/2" collets, will also accept 3/8", Depth Adjustment, Seal power switch
Con's
Case is very small - tight fit for the router
Black Friday Bare-Tool Porter-Cable PC18JS 18-Volt Cordless Jig Saw (Tool Only, No Battery) 2011 Deals
Nov 28, 2011 01:42:49
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Black Friday Bare-Tool Porter-Cable PC18JS 18-Volt Cordless Jig Saw (Tool Only, No Battery) Feature
- Tool-Free Shoe with 0, 45 degree Bevel Stops Provides Hassle-Free Transitions from Straight to 45° Bevel Cuts
- 3-position orbital control provides versatility for a wide range of cutting applications
- 2,500 spm For Fast and Smooth Cutting
- Tool-Free Blade Clamp Allows for Quick Blade Changes without Touching a Hot Blade
- Durable and accurate steel shoe
Black Friday Bare-Tool Porter-Cable PC18JS 18-Volt Cordless Jig Saw (Tool Only, No Battery) Overview
Includes Tradesman 18V Cordless Jig Saw (Bare Tool) - PC18JS, Wood Cutting Blade, Detachable Vacuum PortBlack Friday Bare-Tool Porter-Cable PC18JS 18-Volt Cordless Jig Saw (Tool Only, No Battery) Specifications
Porter-Cable's PC18JS 18-volt cordless jig saw has a handy tool-free shoe combined with a vacuum attachment port. These, plus the saw’s other well-designed features, make the PC18JS an ideal saw for carpenters, contractors, woodworkers, home DIY enthusiasts, and anyone who would like to increase their range of cutting possibilities.
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 Porter-Cable’s PC18JS 18-volt cordless jig saw has a tool-free shoe and a vacuum attachment port (view larger). |
Porter-Cable’s PC18JS 18-volt cordless jig saw has a tool-free steel shoe that makes it possible and easy to go from 0 degree straight cuts to 45 degree bevel cuts. Its three-position orbital control alters the blade angle, adding flexibility for a larger array of cutting situations and letting the user make the decision to choose between faster or smoother cutting depending on the job at hand. In addition, the saw’s variable-speed trigger helps to ensure quick and consistent cutting.
A Host of Helpful Features
With a handy vacuum attachment port, using Porter-Cable’s PC18JS 18-volt cordless jig saw involves a reduced amount of airborne dust and a cutting path that’s clear of excess debris. The saw’s tool-free blade release means it’s a snap to change the blades and that a user doesn’t have to worry about bumping a hot blade--this also adds an extra level of safety.
Dimensions and Warranty
Porter-Cable’s PC18JS 18-volt cordless jig saw measures 12.7 by 8.6 by 3.9 inches and weighs 4 pounds. It comes with a 3-year limited warranty, a 1-year free service contract, and a 90 day money back guarantee.
About Porter-Cable
At the forefront of technological advances for over 95 years, Porter-Cable has introduced such noteworthy products as the world's first portable belt sander in 1926 and the first right-hand, helical-gear circular saw in 1929. This passion for progress flows through every product Porter-Cable offers. Their product line is the result of a dedicated team of researchers and engineers listening to what tool users have to say, constantly looking for ways to improve existing tools and dream up new ones. The company designs, manufactures, and distributes electric and cordless power tools, pneumatic tools and compressors, pressure washers, generators and related accessories for the professional woodworking, commercial/residential construction, plumbing, and electrical markets.
What's in the Box
One Porter-Cable PC18JS 18-volt cordless jig saw, wood cutting blade, vacuum attachment port.
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| Porter-Cable’s PC18JS jig saw has a three-position orbital control, variable-speed trigger, and vacuum attachment port (click each to enlarge). | |||
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Limited Offer Today!! Bare-Tool Porter-Cable PC18JS 18-Volt Cordless Jig Saw (Tool Only, No Battery) Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2011 Deals
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