Dealmonger: Hitachi KM12VC Fixed/Plunge Router $130
By Stephen Cooke
I’m finally getting into the world of routing, and my entry point is this Hitachi KM12VC plunge and fixed-base router kit, available from Amazon for $130. The router features an 11A, 2-1/4 HP variable speed motor (8,000 to 24,000 RPM), and it includes the plunge base, 1/2″ and 1/4″ collet chucks, template guide adaptor, centering gauge, sub-base plate, three wrenches, and a five-year warranty.
I chose to save a Jackson and a Hamilton and get the refurbished model from the folks at Reconditioned Sales for $102.
KM12VC [Hitachi]
Via Amazon
Hitachi KM12VC Refurb [Reconditioned Sales]
Street Pricing [Google Products]
March 20th, 2008 at 10:39 am
$130? Amazon says this is $199.
March 20th, 2008 at 11:05 am
If you click on the Amazon link above, it takes you to Amazon.com and the router is sold by Hardware Sales, Inc. at 129.99.
March 20th, 2008 at 12:41 pm
the Hardware Sales is a refurb as well.
March 20th, 2008 at 1:06 pm
Every once and a great while, Amazon will offer this set for $120 (new not refurb). I got in the habit of checking once a week and scored it back in November for the $120 + free shipping.
March 20th, 2008 at 2:26 pm
Anyone using this router on a jobsite or shop as a professional?
From the new Hitachi green color scheme - it looks like its aimed at the hobbyist market - but we use a lot of Hitachi pneumatics - which have given good service.
March 21st, 2008 at 7:22 pm
How can you tell that from the color scheme?
March 23rd, 2008 at 10:03 am
We’re looking for our very first router - does anyone have thoughts as to whether or not this model is a good one for clumsy, fearful beginners?
Jon S.
March 23rd, 2008 at 11:41 am
Re Jon Sorko
What we have become comfortable with and use professionally - may not be what you want as a first router. The idea of a kit is probably appealing for you - since it provieds both a fixed base and a plunge router. Most companies: Porter Cable, Bosh, Makita, Ryobi, Ridgid (at Home Depot), Craftsman (Sears), Milwaukee et. al offer these kits. As a newcomer to routers - you may wish to see how they feel in your hands. Those that have the power switch in the handle - may be more comfortable for you than these Hitachis.
I’ve always liked Porter Cable D-handle bases - but some of my carpenters don’t. I have one guy who likes the Milwaukee palm grip - but I have small hands and hate it. You may want a set that will rest easily on a bench upside down for bit changing. Some models have rounded tops that do not allow this. You may want a model that uses a bit lock and 1 wrench (versus 2 wrenches) to change bits. If you’re planning to use one in a router table - then you need to look at features that allow easy height adjustment without removing the router from the base. On the plunge base - you should try to see how smmoth the unlock/lock and plunge mechanism is and how natural it feels for you to access and use the lock.
There probably some recent comparisons made in woodworking magazines - that you may be able to access via the internet.
Good luck
March 26th, 2008 at 8:13 pm
“From the new Hitachi green color scheme - it looks like its aimed at the hobbyist market”
I think it’s aimed at people who like blingy sports shoes crossed with Nerf toys. I find the styling a little odd but I don’t know that it says anything about the quality of the tool.