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Step 1
Decide what the primary task will be that you want the router for. Unless your primary reason for wanting a router is to make signs or make other types of designs that require the router to begin its cut in the middle of a board rather than on the edge, you'll should start out with a stationary base router rather than a more expensive (and generally heavier) plunge router.
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Step 2
Purchase a router with sufficient power. Make sure your router has at least 2 horsepower. A router with less than 2 horsepower will not be able to cut efficiently if you use any large-sized bits.
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Step 3
Hold the router in your hands and make sure the weight and the grip are comfortable. This is an important consideration. If the router is not comfortable your hands and arms could tired before the job is done.
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Step 4
Check out the location of all controls. The on/off switch must be easily accessible when your hands are gripping the router. You cannot afford to remove your hands from the handle of the router to switch it off.
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Step 5
Buy a plunge router if you plan to make signs or do other work which requires your router to begin its cut in the middle of a board. Plunge routers are generally slightly heavier and bulkier than stationary-based routers. Make sure the router feels right in your hands. Hold several different models in your hands before deciding on one.
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Step 6
Buy a router with a 1/2-inch collet rather than a 1/4-inch collet if you can afford it. The collet determines the size of the bits you can use in your router. With a 1/4-inch collet you can only use bits with a 1/4-inch shank. But if you can afford a router with a 1/2-inch collet then you can use bits with both a 1/4-inch as well as a 1/2-inch shank. This expands the universe of bits you can use plus bits with a 1/2-inch shank are generally easier to work with, especially if you are new to routers.
