This router lift is an economical alternative versus compatible routers that commonly cost US$200 or more, wrote one customer. Looks like it has lots of travel. The JessEm Mast-R-Lift II Router Lift is an entry-level router-lift designed for routerslooking to own a lift without breaking the bank. His other interests include astronomy, hiking, and fishing. Users can use the various jigs, templates, and router bits to connect them with many different models. It includes several collars that allow you to use the lift with different sized router motors, and it also comes with the required hex wrenches. Using my Rockler router fence. Copyright 2023 Acton Media Inc. All rights reserved. Bosch 1617/1618 (3.5" Motor Dia.) The in-built locking system, this model comes with an in-built locking system that works above the router table. Many router lifts provide the user with more stability and greater vibration reduction than their current setup. A ball-bearing mechanism uses 5 bearings to ensure smooth movement throughout the range of the tool. You can zero this system at any routing point to get the baseline setup of your bit. 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. 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 should look for a router lift made from cast iron or quality aluminum. 38" x 9 14" x 11 34" (9.5 mm x 235mm x 298mm) hard-anodized aluminum plate won't sag, resists scratches. It has very high-class superior quality, and it also offers excellent comfort and reliability when tuning the height of your router. When you purchase products through our independent recommendations, we may earn an affiliate commission. 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. 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. Both very good and built very well. Many people may use a router as a handheld tool or attach it under a table. The route lift features further improvement on the control of bothsmall and large adjustments compared to the previous version. If you dont own a Rockler table, you should be sure it fits on your table before you purchase. Another handy accessory in woodworking is a bench dog. 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). The Router Lift FX is an easy-to-use router. 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. Down sides are cost of Jessem accessories. A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites in 2023, Woodpeckers Precision PRL-V2-420 Router Lift, Buyers Guide Picking the Best Router Lifts, Bosch RA1181 Benchtop Router Table Review. For its price,the JessEm Rout-R-Lift II Router Lift comes with so many unique features you would find in professional router lifts. Many of the best router lifts feature multipoint locking systems to keep the motor right where it needs to be. The PORTER-CABLE 6931 is a replacement basefor plunge routers models 690, 9690, and 691. But that's not all. 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. However, you should note that the JessEm Rout-R-Lift II Router Lift is only compatible with a few routers. Infinity Cutting Tools router tables and packages are assembled from some of the best router lifts, router stands, router tables and router fences from manufacturers like Incra, JessEm, and Woodpeckers. 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. I am currently using a Bosch 1617EVS in the Bosch fixed base mounted on a cheap Router Table plate in my workstation (not the best, but kinda nice Bosch gives you a base that can be . The lift comes with a grip-like carriage fixed onto the router. Well tell you the pros and cons and give you our opinion on which one is the best. The SawStop RT-LFT Four-Post Router Lift features a durable phenolic router table resting on 4 threaded steel posts. 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. $419.99 USD. You can upgrade to other sophisticated router lifts when you are buoyant enough.. With a crank handle to make precise height adjustments, the Incra Mast-R-Lift for Rockler tables allows you to make adjustments as small as 0.0001 inches from above. The PRS5000 comes with an in-built micro-adjust scaling system. 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 A router lift is a valuable addition to the already existing tools in your workshop. If it comes out, youre in business. This lift has a 9 -inch by 11-inch aluminum plate for universal table fitment. The Best Wood Routers for Beginners in the Workshop. Users are always enthusiastic about this router lift because it is a product that wont die off quickly. Router tables offer more control than handheld sanders as you can use both hands to control and move wood on a project. You attach the mounting plate to your router table and fit the router to the lift carriage. See Price On Amazon. I use a Tridon router on a Kreg plate so no expensive extra lift. Incra vs Kreg -- Router Tables Winner Declared!! The Rockler is more expensive and you got to buy more stuff besides what it comes with. The Kreg precision router lift is different for professionals who arent ready to sacrifice height adjustments and accuracy on the altar of price. This is helpful for routing dadosor groovesin cabinet doors for center panels, molding profiles on expensive wood species, and other detail-oriented milling processes. 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. 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 02120 has a universal attachment system that works with most fixed-base router systems regardless of brand or size. Just to be sure, check it beforehand. Before you start shopping for a router lift, there are a few important features to consider. Quote Tom King Mentors 7k LocationLake Gaston, NC Posted February 6, 2018 I was considering a Triton router like this Amazon.com with a Kreg insert/switch. Double ball bearing construction allows for extremely smooth and accurate movement. The Router lift II only accepts small motors but also has a very flat machined aluminum plate and is very reasonably priced. Having a locking mechanism on your left is the best way to ensure accuracy while youre working. Incra Mast-R-Lift-II-R Designed for Rockler Tables. Double sealed bearing construction ensures smooth movement during travel. We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. 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. We tested dozens of routers and picked out the top five router lifts in the market. 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. Can I use my old Router and Router Table? Fewer vibrations allow for more accurate material removal and a better-looking finished product. It is highly recommended but before you purchase, be sure it fits into the router table you have. The lift aids you get accurate readings while routing. Chain synchronizing 4-post lifting system, Includes collars for use with different routers. When it comes to fixed-based routers, the answer might be yes. Some models have sealed ball bearings with a bit of grease built-in, but if not, its a good idea to give the adjustment spindle and ball-bearing mechanism a quick spray of a lubricant before using the lift. 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. With a 2 -inch plunge range, many router lift reviews complimented this model on its consistent high-end router lift production and durability, as well as its 6-step height adjustment system. ADUSTABLE: The RA1165 conveniently allows depth adjustment of bit height from above the table. Some of them are brand- and model-specific, while others offer a more universal approach. We also found no list of compatible routers anywhere, including their website, so choosing it for your table is a bit risky. Features Lightweight: At only 8.8 lbs, you can easily carry this lift to your workplace. Routers offer the ability to cut complex molding profiles and joinery. Understanding each feature will help determine which router lift will work best for you. The INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift has a five-ball bearing system that gives users total control. Also, while router lifts can be installed in any flat work surface with the right measurements and tools, theyre specially designed to fit router tables. Its best for handlers who dont always use awood routerbut need a handy one. However, the Triton TRA001 doesnt fit this router lift because of the diameter of the router lift. Compatibility: PORTER-CABLE 690/890, Bosch 1617/1618, DeWALT 610/618/616, and Craftsmans 1754/17540/28190 models. What is the mechanism behind the router lift? I love to make things. 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. Thanks to the built-in chain-synchronized design, the adjustment mechanism is very sharp and responsive. 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. Find and evaluate OEMs, Custom Manufacturers, Service Companies and Distributors. It is not a versatile router lift, so do not expect it to work with your router unless specified., Also, the router lift may go easy on your purse, but an extra purchase would push the entire cost to the high side. Thus, professional artisans looking for cutting-edge route-lifters would have a hard time using this lift. We also found that the instructions are poorly written and didnt help us install the router lift. The Bosch RA 1165 is an updated router lift replacingthe RA 1164 and serves as the new base for many fixed-base router models. 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. Steel is the best balance between weight and strength, though there were aluminum bodies on a few of the models on our list that were extremely durable. You should check out the specifications and accessories of your router to see the best router lift that would suit it. The JessEm looks good and appears to have good reviews. Its perfect for those still experimenting with a router and not looking to make a long-term commitment. This improvement eliminates the need for a crank handle to make precise router bit height adjustments. See . The Master lift has a better plate and can accept a larger motor. The JessEm Mast-R-Lift II 02120 Router Lift features an exclusive cam locking system that prevents dropouts while you are working. California Do Not Track Notice. You can make height adjustments four times faster with tools or screws, and the anti-backlash locking system ensures that the router will stay put. However, be careful when purchasing and make sure your router can fit perfectly before you place any orders. The five sealed ball bearings on the lifting screw and the exclusive cam locking system provide smooth operation with minimal effort. We hope you have enjoyed reading over our reviews and found them helpful in your pursuit of a new router lift. They tend to use it for a more extended period of time. Below is a collection of some of the best router lifts on the market. Customers did complain about the difficulty of making smooth height adjustments but found this product much easier to use by hand or on a table. For more suppliers of related products, including plastic routing machinery, woodworking machinery, and workbenches consult our additional guides, or visit the Thomas Supplier Discovery Platform. A good router lift can be as important as a routing table when it comes to woodworking. Another benefit to the router lift is that it allows you to make more accurate height adjustments because you dont need to climb under the table to make small changes. 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. This allows universal kits to fit motors from just over 4 inches in diameter to some as small as 3 inches. Paired with one of the best router lifts, you will get even more out of this tool. If you are yet to buy a router, you can check out the pair that is most compatible. The more lift adapters you have, the easier it will be to find a router that will work with your router lift. It fits most routers, thats why its our pick for best overall. One of which is the ability to make sure your router insert plates are firm. This lift is made out of aluminum with a phenolic top plate. 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. The crank handle and the thumbwheel are the standard height adjustments mechanisms on a router lift. Thomas Register and 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. 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. 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. Once the user finds the ideal adjustment for the router bit, locking the motor in place is essential for consistent results. One customer praised its quality as hands down, the best tabletop router table on the market, and another wrote, Well-designed product. You can easily adjust the height of your bits even when there is a material on the plates, Cam lock mechanism that holds the lift in place, Features an in-built micro-adjust scaling system, Auto-leveling system for enhanced precision, It comes with a set of twist lock insert rings for better control and accuracy, Features a 3-stop auto-leveling system for better height adjustment, Improved accuracy and precision using the thumbwheel system, Best for professionals who are looking to seamlessly adjust the height of their bits without any other additional tools, Compact design that fits into an averagely sized router table, An improved version of the PRS5000 with an in-built micro-adjust scaling system, Designed for professionals looking to work long hours on their routing table, Not the perfect fit for big-sized router bits, The Mast-R-Lift II has five double sealed bearings. The KREG PRS5000 Precision Router Lift is our pick as the best router lift overall. Before purchasing a router lift, you must check the manufacturers specifications on essential details likecompatible routers. All in all, the product offers excellent precision for its standards. Features a simple adjustable clamp locking mechanism that works best with routers of 8-1/4-inch by the 11-3/4-inch base. Not all routers will work with router lifts. Therefore, this makes it a perfect candidate for heavy-duty routers. Plunge-base routers have spring-loaded supports that allow the user to lower a spinning bit into the field of a workpiece. We use it quite often, and its difficult to turn, so it tends to fatigue the thumb. But if you dont mind, the router lift is a fantastic start. With this advantage, you can now effectively route any material with more speed and less effort.. Any recommendations are appreciated. The Woodpeckers is a high-end router lift with some nice features, but one thing we can complain about is the thumbwheel. You will need to worry about making table adjustments when setting up your workspace and some router lifts make it easier than others. If that is indeed the only real difference, I'd choose the Incra due to the Magnalock rings if you have any plans to also go with the Cleansweep. 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. 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. Hence, its a lightweight feature that makes it to carry around. These versions of the INCRA Mast-R-Lift II are not compatible with . Precise adjustment without backlash . Compatibility: 1617, 1617EVS, 1617EVSPK, 1618 and 1618EVS routers. You can go for options like the handheld router for this purpose. It also allows you to change your router bits from above the table, which is impossible without them. Easy to assemble and use. 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. Thus, a router lift offers you versatile ways of using your router. Also, the micro-adjust scale and the index ring found in the router lift will greatly affect the accuracy when it comes to bit heights. How do you pick out the best router lift for your routing tasks? When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Some high-end models will also include micro-adjustments made by turning the adjustment knob in small increments for dialing in very specific settings. Siphonic Jet vs Gravity-Fed Toilet: Which One Should You Choose? When setting up your cam lock, we recommended following instructions directly for where to position your clamps; customers were able to interchange their piece with different routers, like the Bosch 1617, as long as they paid attention to how they installed it. Threaded spindle runs on a double-sealed ball-bearing. Join us while we look at precision, travel distance, installation, and more to help you make an educated decision. 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. Terms and Conditions, The lift is usually locked by a lever or sometimes a bolt that fastens to the table to keep it in place until you release the mechanism. Router Lift OFL 2.0K . Identically, there are various other models that are tested by the professionals and . Some may also require you to purchase extra parts to set them up correctly, which takes time and costs more. Porter Cable 690/890 (3.5" Motor Dia.) This tool features easy installation and it works with large diameter routers. Look out for router lifts that work with a bolting system or lever locking system. This allows the user to use different-size router bits while the interchangeable rings support the workpiece, promoting stability and preventing unnecessary tear-out. Some models come with accessories to help level the lift in the table, and they may also come with accessories called lift adapters that allow you to use the lift with different-sized routers. It offers superior precision and height adjustments for all kinds of heavy-duty routing.. The router lift is a very handy and practical way to boost the ease of use and versatility of your router table. The router offers more accuracy and precision. This material is specially designed and engineered with high-resistant elements to ensure it doesnt wear off with rigorous usage. With fine-tuning and micro-height adjustments, you can dial in the perfect height, providing smooth, consistent results every time. Website Last Modified March 4, 2023. With this level of adjustability, you'll be able to get your router table to the perfect height for all-day work in the shop. But the heavier the lift, the more stable it will be during start-up and while routing. The anodized aluminum provides clean cuts while offering long tool life. The locking mechanism of your router lift should be top-notch if you wish to enjoy precise and accurate routing sessions. Always buy router lifts that have a sawdust collection system that is compatible with vacuum hoses. Fits all Kreg router tables and many competitive brands. It is very ultra-responsive and highly accurate in cutting. Height adjustments and bit changes occur above the table, eliminating bench wrenches. If you heavily use a router and you are looking for something different from other routers, the. Best Professional Router Lift - Incra Mast-R-Lift II. You don't want to buy a router lift that won't fit your router. The Kreg PRS5000 and the Rockler Pro Lift. If your router allows you to separate the motor from the base, you can attach the motor to a router lift. Best Router Lift with Locking Mechanism - JessEm Mast-R-Lift II 02120. Its not bulky and wouldnt take up all the space on an average routing table. In this informative review, you will learn all you need to know about these products to help you make the right decision when you invest in a router lift. 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. 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. I share my best tips about woodworking and DIY., 1. While it is a smaller unit, it is a bit on the heavier side at 15 pounds. Also, the aluminum material is not ferrous and lacks magnetic properties, rendering a magnetic outboard mount dial almost useless.. If you are also getting a custom router table,you should make sure this route lift fits perfectly without reeling the crank gauge. Reviewers caution against compatibility issues with other router lifts, as the JessEm Mast-R-Lift II cannot be used with a plunge router, but is compatible with the JessEm Pow-R-Tek router table. 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. Best Budget Router Lift - JessEm Rout-R-Lift II. Most Advanced Table: JessEm Mast-R-Lift Excel II This can range from about 3.25-3.5, making it perfect to fit many routers users can find in the market. 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. For a truly dialed-in router lift, JessEms Mast-R-Lift II 02120 Router Lift is tough to beat. All professional woodworkers and enthusiast need stability during their time on the project. 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. Its a no-brainer when you find all the fantastic features of this products professional router-lift. The Router Lift FX is an incredible tool that can assist you in trimming or cutting down your wooden project with precision and accuracy. 699.00 * SA-OFL3.0K . The durability is top-notch as the lift is made from robust materials. The router lift then raises and lowers the router bit using a crankshaft or thumbscrew. Theres an above-table lock as well as multiple table insert collars for a variety of bit sizes. Higher quality lifts will be easier to install than budget models, but they will both work about the same when complete. JessEm Mast-R-Lift II 02120 Router Lift, 9-1/4-Inch by 11-3/4-Inch- Most Compatible Router Lift. Mounted it in a SawStop iron TS wing. Twist the router counterclockwise until it stops (this is usually a very small twist), and pull the motor from the base. JessEm Mast-R-Lift: 2432-inch router table top with an integrated router lift. While the Rout-R-Lift II might not cost a ton, it doesnt sacrifice where it counts. Users really need the router lift to alter and change the height of the bits during the process of routing. However, before investing in the INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift, be sure it fits into your router table. The Jessem Master lift is a metal top unit, $100 more and accommodates all motor sizes: Porter Cable 7518 (4.2" Motor Dia.)