Standard mounts found on a router lift has a lot of benefits that one cant pass by. Enable registration in settings - general. Its spindle boasts double-sealed bearing construction and gives the Rout-R-Lift II router lift smooth height adjustments for use with a 3.5-inch router motor, and the router insert plate has lift adapters to provide a sturdy and durable mount. To know if the router lift will fit into your table, you need to know the plate size and there are two widely used plate sizes, the 8 x 11-inch, and the 9 x 11-inch. But if you are more concerned about precise and accurate cuts, you should check out the fixed-type routers. With this advantage, you can now effectively route any material with more speed and less effort.. A woodwork routing system for projects must fit the router lift or at least be compatible with it. First, this router lift comes with a utility cam lock system that locks the lift firmly on the table when you turn the wrench. The SawStop RT-LFT Four-Post Router Lift with Lock is the last on this list, and I can say that this product has an exclusive lifting system that comes with its complete accessories. Best Premium Router Lift - Woodpeckers Precision PRL-V2-420. Comes with 3 insert ring to reduce the size of the opening in the plate, with the . All Rights Reserved. Woodworkers hunting for a router lift for their router tables, workbenches, or table saws may want to check out Kregs Precision Router Lift. The Router Lift FX is an easy-to-use router. 3. 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. These versions of the INCRA Mast-R-Lift II are not compatible with . Each rotation of the adjusting crank moves the carriage exactly 1/16 inch, so its easy to return to previous settings. You need to get yourself a router lift! I share my best tips about woodworking and DIY., 1. Another issue we had with this model is that you cant zero in the height gauge, so the markings give you an idea of how far youve moved, but you will need to do the math. This allows universal kits to fit motors from just over 4 inches in diameter to some as small as 3 inches. The installation on both sides of the table isn't ideal if I want a wide table. But if you dont mind, the router lift is a fantastic start. It also fits a variety of router motors between 3 inches and 4 inches in diameter. Users can use the various jigs, templates, and router bits to connect them with many different models. . Kregs PRS2100 benchtop router tableprovides the industrial strength and power of a full-size router table at a portable size, whether youre in the shop, garage, or on a worksite, this precision router table offers the accurate depth and height adjustments you need to make your woodworking project a success. The sealed bearings also ensure you can easily adjust the height without moving under the table. Most Advanced Table: JessEm Mast-R-Lift Excel II Best Industrial Table: Kreg PRS2100 Bench Top Router Table; 7. The JessEm Mast-R-Lift II 02120 Router Lift features an exclusive cam locking system that prevents dropouts while you are working. The product offers optimum versatility and a high level of accuracy for height adjustments on the router. If the INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift is that expensive, wouldnt you like to comfortably fix it on your router table? Bench Dog Tools(such as the Bench Dog tools 40-150 prolift) and Kreg router lift also provide great options for quality router table lifts. Fits most routers, . There are a few things to keep in mind while on the lookout for the right router lift, and whether or not it is the best option for your needs. It's a solid lift that has recieved great reviews if you have a Bench Dog Table. Before you set out to buy a router lift, you must thoughtfully consider the following factors: The first factor you must thoughtfully consider if you are about to make a long-term commitment to a router lift is the material used in its construction. One customer raved, Its a new world! Router tables offer more control than handheld sanders as you can use both hands to control and move wood on a project. I use a Tridon router on a Kreg plate so no expensive extra lift. Theres an above-table lock as well as multiple table insert collars for a variety of bit sizes. BuildEazy is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. Its perfect for those still experimenting with a router and not looking to make a long-term commitment. A router lift is an extra router plate designed to fit into the router. Mind you, there are two sizes of this lift and the one . Thanks to that, they fit most router sizes, at least the most common ones. The ball bearing mechanism allows for smooth movement as the lift up and down. JessEm Mast-R-Lift II 02120 Router Lift, 9-1/4-Inch by 11-3/4-Inch- Most Compatible Router Lift. It only weighs 1 pound and fits many popular routers. The material, weight, compatibility, ball-bearing adjustment, and locking system vary among these handy tools. Comparable to the JessEm Mast-R-Lift II but at a more affordable pricing point, the Rout-R-Lift II router lift is made with a phenolic plate rather than anodized aluminum and also has smaller elevation measurements. If you use routers that are 3-hp or higher, you are sure to have a saggy result over time if you dont use any cross-bracing or support. The Router Lift FX is an incredible tool that can assist you in trimming or cutting down your wooden project with precision and accuracy. The ball bearing system is responsible for precise and stress-free height router height adjustments. There truly is a sweet spot. Plunge-base routers have spring-loaded supports that allow the user to lower a spinning bit into the field of a workpiece. However, be careful when purchasing and make sure your router can fit perfectly before you place any orders. Made by Kreg Tools, the Kreg PRS5000 with precision router lift, and cam lock height adjustment is an anodized aluminum, ball-bearing router lift that makes router setup easy thanks to the above table bit changer. The durability is top-notch as the lift is made from robust materials. In general, fixed-base router motors will separate from their base, allowing them to chock into a router lift. Just take the springs out of the Tridon plunge base. This model is for 3.5-inch diameter motors, but you have five style choices depending on what size router you want to use. Woodworkers in production shops or scenarios can benefit from Incras Mast-R-Lift-II-R router lift. Rockler much smaller. Made by Kreg Tools,the Kreg PRS5000 with precision router lift, and cam lock height adjustment is an anodized aluminum, ball-bearing router lift that makes router setup easy thanks to the above table bit changer. It also includes 3 self-leveling Twist-Lock rings for installing the lift on any table. One exception, though, is the Milwaukee 5625-29, which at this time of writing, only the Rockler and the JessEm router lift can fit this router and offer over-the-table bit changes. small and large adjustments compared to the previous version. Also, the aluminum material is not ferrous and lacks magnetic properties, rendering a magnetic outboard mount dial almost useless.. Following is a collection of some of the most frequently asked questions about router table lifts, so be sure to check for an answer to your question below. 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. Which wood router should one choose when on a budget? PRL V2 (PRECISION ROUTER LIFT) This new router lift features the proven robust construction of the Precision Router Lift combined with the near instant elevation changes of the Quick Lift. Due to a router lifts design, the lifts work surface supports all of the weight. Dedicated cam-lock mechanism prevents spindle rotation. *Prices listed in this article were as shown on amazon.com (USA) as of December 2022. 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. I'd need a shim for my Bosch router and a set of the aluminum inserts which don't have a price yet. To make sure a router lift doesnt sag or become misshapen, many have an aluminum or steel plate. Double sealed bearing construction ensures smooth movement during travel. We feel that the KREG PRS5000 Precision Router Lift is the best router lift for most people. It fits most fixed-base routers and features an anodized top plate. If it comes out, youre in business. Find materials, components, equipment, MRO supplies and more. To lift the router in the router lift, insert the included adjustment handle into the height-adjustment screw built into the tables surface. This lift has a 9 -inch by 11-inch aluminum plate for universal table fitment. Tool Review: Kreg Model PRS5000 Router lift Smooth and precise router lift By Owain Harris Aug 21, 2018 Kreg's newest precision router lift is the PRS5000. The Jessem looks nearly identical to the Incra with the exception of the rings, as expected since Jessem makes the Incra rebranded unit. A router lift usually comes with a height adjustment mechanism called the ball bearing system. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Here are some things to think about before choosing the best router lift for your table. First, lets look at some benefits of using a router lift. But that's not all. I do recommend it. Users are also required to check and clean the affected area and parts of the router lifts before every use. Hence, its a lightweight feature that makes it to carry around. Choosing the best one can be challenging, though, because there are plenty of models available and its not something you find in every household. Users really need the router lift to alter and change the height of the bits during the process of routing. When it comes to achieving silky-smooth height adjustments, finding a router lift with a ball-bearing adjustment mechanism is the route to go rather than a basic screw-type spindle. The Woodpeckers is a high-end router lift with some nice features, but one thing we can complain about is the thumbwheel. This is the tool for people on a budget and those who dont want to spend much on a router lift. They hold the router motor upside down, with the router bit protruding above the surface. If you dont own a Rockler table, you should be sure it fits on your table before you purchase. While professionals and serious users find this product from minimal to average, new users, enthusiasts, and hobbyists will enjoy it because it is very affordable. The top-precision milled plate measures 9 x 11 inches, and, with the double-sealed ball bearing systems, it provides smooth rotation for its entire lifespan. A router lift is a mount that drops into a work surface, turning any bench with adequate space underneath into a router table. Mounted it in a SawStop iron TS wing. The Precision Lift has some desirable features, like ball-bearing adjustments made in 1/16-inch increments from above the table. They can be used for the sanding, shaping, and detailing of different wood. We highly recommend looking for a model that provides locking functionality. Woodpeckers PRL-V2-420PRL Router Lift - Best High End Lift 5. Is it possible to remove the router from the base? Another innovation is the micro-adjust thumb wheel. Are you tired of constantly removing your router from therouter tableeach time you have to change a bit? In fact, it is a very limited incompatibility. I just need a decent lift/router when I need to round over or chamfer something. JessEm Rout-R-Lift has a dedicated lock mechanism that prevents the rotation of the axle. The router clamps into the router lift from underneath. Proper maintenance begins with purchasing the right router table for your lift or buying the necessary lift components. Compatibility: Models 4211, 4213, 4215, 43776PC, 43743PC, 43014PC, 43777PC, 42037, 42040, 42046, 42054, and 42237. The INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift is a perfect choice for users who value quality and precision. Precision indexing ring with micro-adjust scale simplifies bit height changes. What a router lift does is turn any workbench with enough space into a router table. The lift is lightweight, thus do not add extra weight to the router table. When it comes to long-term durability, material is a significant factor. Be sure to compare each one carefully before deciding on one. Paired with one of the best router lifts, you will get even more out of this tool. Users are always enthusiastic about this router lift because it is a product that wont die off quickly. It helps to increase accuracy and precision, which makes your finished products have a professional touch. This improvement eliminates the need for a crank handle to make precise router bit height adjustments. 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. If you choose a ball-bearing mechanism lift, its important to keep it lubricated. The right router lift also comes with a solid mount where you can bolt in your router plates. JessEm Mast-R-Lift: 2432-inch router table top with an integrated router lift. Fascinated by all sort of tools, Pete loves reading and writing about all the latest gadgets and accessories that hit the market. . The Incra Mast-R-Lift-II-R Router Lift features a very precise height-adjusting system that uses a printed gauge that will tell you exactly how much distance the table moved. The locking mechanism of your router lift should be top-notch if you wish to enjoy precise and accurate routing sessions. It features a micro-adjusting wheel that helps you connect it with varying models. For other router modes like the Porter Cable 7518, users need to reduce the collar to adjust the diameter so the router can fit perfectly. The INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift is considered a tool for professionals, and beginners shouldnt purchase this product. Rogers lifts are known to be heavy products weighing up to 20 pounds. We hope our review of the best precision router lifts has been helpful. Copyright 2023 Thomas Publishing Company. Most lifts come with adjustment handles that pop into screws in the surface of the lift, with clockwise turns lifting the router and counterclockwise turns lowering it. The lift aids you get accurate readings while routing. 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. Other models feature friction locks that put pressure on the adjustment spindle to prevent it from loosening and lowering the router. But in most cases, the motor is permanently attached. The sealed bearing protects the lift against dust/work debris, increasing the machines lifespan. This can range from about 3.25-3.5, making it perfect to fit many routers users can find in the market. How do I find the router lift that is compatible with my router? We like the crank handle better, but the thumbscrew allows you to make extremely precise height adjustments. If you are a professional craftsman or a beginner with lots of workshop hours working with a router, you should consider getting a router for the following reasons: The router lift has a heavy base plate, which prevents vibrations when you use the router. The router lift is a very handy and practical way to boost the ease of use and versatility of your router table. It is highly recommended but before you purchase, be sure it fits into the router table you have. The SawStop RT-LFT Four-Post Router Lift features a durable phenolic router table resting on 4 threaded steel posts. If you are into craft equipment from JessEm, you should check out the Mast-R-Lift. Its much easier to get accurate measurements from a lift that uses ball bearings. With this mechanism, you can accurately carry out height adjustments. The lighter it is, the easier it will be to drop in place. Plunge routers offer versatility as you can manually adjust the position of the bits. By holding the router motor upside down, the router lift allows the router bits to stick out of the workbench. When you make the wrong investment and get a lift thats incompatible with your router, you would experience inconsistencies like vibrations when routing. I love to make things. For its price,the JessEm Rout-R-Lift II Router Lift comes with so many unique features you would find in professional router lifts. These plans are for personal use only. Having a locking mechanism on your left is the best way to ensure accuracy while youre working. Router lifts eliminate most of the problems router table users experience daily. 38" x 9 14" x 11 34" (9.5 mm x 235mm x 298mm) hard-anodized aluminum plate won't sag, resists scratches. In terms of those slight adjustments, when you rotate the adjusting crank once, it moves the bit upward or downward precisely by 1/16 inches. Some high-end models will also include micro-adjustments made by turning the adjustment knob in small increments for dialing in very specific settings. You can go for options like the handheld router for this purpose. 5 images maximum / 31.25MB per image / jpeg, pjpeg, png, gif. Compatibility: 1617, 1617EVS, 1617EVSPK, 1618 and 1618EVS routers. It also has an auto-protect feature, and it is also a bit portable. You can move it around your workshop with ease. Thus, if you are a heavy user looking for something out of the ordinary, then this model will be an appropriate match. Not all routers will work with router lifts. We will keep you posted. With customer reviews that read, Its probably one of the best router lifts currently made, the JessEm Mast-R-Lift II 02120 router lift is a reliable piece of equipment in any workshop. A router lift relieves you of constantly bending under your table for you to reach out and adjust the height of your router. See all products JOINERY ACCESSORIES Ben PS this is my current setup. You would think that the price tag is because the INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift will be compatible with almost all sizes, brands, and types, but that is not the case. However, it is essential to know that this project can handle only minimal to average projects. Some of them are brand- and model-specific, while others offer a more universal approach. Double ball bearing construction allows for extremely smooth and accurate movement. What To Look For In Router Lifts WWW17 WOOD magazine WOOD magazine 87K. 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. 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. Includes Mast-R-Lift II, 3 x Insert Rings - 35mm (1-3/8), 50mm (2) and 63.5mm (2-1/2), 1 x Insert Wrench, 1 x Crank Handle, 10 x Stainless steel set screws with Blue Nyloc Patch, 4 x Mounting Screws. Buildeazy accepts no responsibility for any injury to any person occurring while using or undertaking this project or any other Buildeazy project, either directly or indirectly. With a list of compatible routers including Bosch, Craftsman, DeWALT, Hitachi, Milwaukee, PORTER-CABLE, Rigid, and Makita, this router lift has an insert plate compatible with most Rockler or Bench Dog full-size tables. Best Router Lift with Locking Mechanism - JessEm Mast-R-Lift II 02120. the PORTER-CABLE 7518. This model is the R model and not the regular version; therefore, if you dont own a Rockler table, it may be hard to fit it into any other table. Its 3/8-inch thick solid aluminum construction is durable and lightweight. This router features Incras MagnaLock collars, which have magnets to snap the collars into place. Copyright 2023 House Grail. Great for making small adjustments in height. Kreg and most users claim that the Kreg PRS5000 Precision Router Lift is an upgrade from the last version of PRS3000, and this time around, the company paid more attention to the users complaints about precision and accuracy. I dont do a lot of routing so I dont need the best out there. Find and evaluate OEMs, Custom Manufacturers, Service Companies and Distributors. 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. Join us while we look at precision, travel distance, installation, and more to help you make an educated decision. Incra vs Kreg -- Router Tables Winner Declared!! 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. Iron is durable but its heavy and it also corrodes and rusts quickly. Check the technical components of the router carefully. Without this component, your height adjustment system and elevation measurements will be problematic. 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. The crank handle and the thumbwheel are the standard height adjustments mechanisms on a router lift. Handheld routing is not nearly as accurate as table-mounted routing, but its difficult to adjust the cutting bits height or change it without climbing under the table. The base plate offers extra stability during long routing sessions. But the heavier the lift, the more stable it will be during start-up and while routing. These lifts can be the way to go if you tend to use different routers, arent sure which size you own, or plan to upgrade and would like a bit of flexibility. 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. The router lift contains a reinforced CNC machined phenolic top plate. Ball-bearing systems allow for very smooth movement, and long crank handles make the tiniest adjustments possible. Learn more. Bearing-guided carriage provides smooth operation. Porter Cable 690/890 (3.5" Motor Dia.) The system works using a one-way lock/unlock mechanism placed on a handy spot on the router lift, Compact and smooth-styled design for all kinds of workshop, Superior lock/unlock system placed on a reachable spot, Works mostly like a piece of mechanical equipment with lesser precision, 9-1/4-Inch x 11-3/4-Inch x 3/8-Inch plate size is compatible with all INCRA Router Tables, Exclusive INCRA MagnaLOCK reducing ring system, Exclusive ball bearing mechanism for super-smooth action, Provides high accuracy when on both the horizontal and vertical axis, Ultra-responsive, direct-drive 16TPI lift screw mechanism, 8-1/4 x 11-3/4 x 3/8 plate size is compatible with all full-size Rockler router tables, The INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift weighs just 14.2Ibs, making it easier to mount on your router table and also portable, The router-lift comes with a five sealed ball bearing system that makes it easy for users to adjust the height for greater precision and handling, A self auto-protect feature that ensures durability, Accurate thread tensioning system for better height adjustments, Eliminates friction and vibrations on the router table using the five reducing rings made from steel to flush the lift on the router table and fit perfectly with your router, Eliminates wobble or shaky table using the cam lock system; once you turn the cam lock to the right, the router lift locks the table instinctively, Comfortable height adjustments on the table using the seal ball bearing system, Not an entry-level router-lift for first-timer users, Compatibility: Porter-Cable 690/890 series, Bosch 1617-16-18, DeWalt 610, 616, 618, Dimensions: 8-1/4 x 11-3/4 x 3/8, The high plate does an excellent job of supporting the router lift, Not recommended for people who are looking for a long term investment in router lifts, 38 x 9 14 x 11 34 (9.5 mm x 235mm x 298mm) Hard-anodized aluminum plate wont Sag, resists scratches, Above-table collet access allows fast, easy, above-table bit changes, Accepts 20+ popular routers without requiring pads or adapters, Made from high-quality aluminum plates for optimum durability, Spring-assisted lift system for easy and comfortable heights adjustments. The model is perfect for heavy-duty routers as it offers seamless rotation and control.. Thus, a router lift offers you versatile ways of using your router. They attach to the router lift, and then the router motor slides into place with the collars clamping down on the motor for a secure attachment. Fast and precise height adjustments using the handle, Not compatible with a wide range of routers, It lacks some essential parts that would lead to more purchase, Compact-size design that doesnt take up a lot of space on your router table, Designed for swift and easy assembly, you wouldnt have to spend hours trying to fix the router lift together, It comes with a pack of leveling screws and a machine for easy assembly, Works with a superior lock/unlock system.