Triton | Router Precision Dual Model 2400W TRA001

I use this router upside down in a table and there are 2 things that bug me, no 3. The awkward switch guard. The hole in the base is too small to except a 3 and half inch raised panel bit and the automatic spindle lock pin is made of plastic so it does not work well, I have to try to engage it with a screw driver to get it to work.

A lot of features, some good others not. Pros: Lots of power; well balanced and comfortable to use; automatic spindle lock when fully plunged; easy fine and large depth adjustment; 3 depth stops for repeatable cuts; large base accepts all larger bits; comes with a 1/2 inch collet and a 1/4 inch collet. Cons: Chip guard clogs up easily blocking work piece from view; power switch has a safety guard which makes it awkward and hard to turn the machine on; depth lock lever is secured with a screw which vibrates right out of the locking nut very often; chip guard protrudes into the base which means larger bits might hit it(my chip guard is now wrecked) ; the steel parallel guide base is not flat (it has a few ridges) which catch on the edge of the work piece; plenty of plastic parts.

I would recommend removing the chip guard and adding a piece under the parallel guide base, if you're planning on using it free hand, otherwise it will work well mounted to a table. Despite some gimmicky features the router does works well and I would say it's decent value for money. However, if you're willing to spend more - get a Makita.

My recommendation for a table-mounted router is the Triton 2400W (model number TRA001). I have been using Triton routers in my router tables since their introduction to the South African market some nine or ten years ago. Features include:

* Lots of power - 2400 Watt
* Electronic speed control - 8000 rpm to 21000 rpm. A must on a router used in a router table.
* Both 1/4" and 1/2" collets - preserve your investment in 1/4" bits (I will not use a 1/2" to 1/4" reducing sleeve)
* Above-table bit changing - electrical interlock and automatic spindle lock
* Patented rack-and-pinion macro height adjustment
* Above-table micro height adjustment (no need to invest in an expensive after-market router lift)
* Plunge spring easy to remove
* Effective dust shroud
* Ventilation slots on side - router chips do not fall into the motor case

There is a smaller model, the Triton 1400W (model number MOF001). It has all of the above features - the only difference is the power rating and, of course, the price. This router has ample power: I use it in one of my router tables.

Ive have my Triton for a couple of years, and it has never given me a seconds trouble. It is well balanced, and comfortable to hold and has so much power. You can use it upside down in a table or free hand. Bit changes are simple with the spindle lock that engages when you fully plunge the router. This also disables the power switch, which is a nice safety feature. The guide system works really well as it is a plate as opposed to two rods that just get in the way. Highly recommend this machine.

This has got to be the best value for money router on the South African market bar none!