Porter-Cable 690LR 11-Amp Fixed-Base Router

Monday, March 26, 2012

Product Details

Product Dimensions: 12 x 12 x 10 inches ; 9.8 pounds
Shipping Weight: 9.8 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
Shipping: Currently, item can be shipped only within the U.S. and to APO/FPO addresses. For APO/FPO shipments, please check with the manufacturer regarding warranty and support issues.
ASIN: B00005QEVQ
California residents: Click here for Proposition 65 warning.
Item model number: 690LR

By : Porter-Cable
Price : $127.99
You Save : $159.47 (55%)

Product Description

Amazon.com Product Description
Powerful and efficient, the Porter-Cable 690LR Fixed-Base Router utilizes a hefty 1-3/4-horsepower motor to generate an impressive 27,500 rpm for precise cuts. Two ergonomic handles are strategically placed to make routing easy and comfortable, even during all-day jobs. For added convenience, the router includes collets that will accept 1/4-inch and 1/2-inch shank bits.

690LR Fixed-Base RouterAt a Glance:

Single-speed router with1-3/4-horsepower motor generates 27,500 rpm for easy routing
Fast, precise coarse adjustments via spiral can design and cam-lock lever
Auto-release collet system for easy bit removal
Five-year warranty

1-3/4-horsepower router makes precision cuts in a wide variety of woods. .Powerful and PreciseAn essential addition to any woodworking shop, the router owes its robust performance to a single-speed, 11 amp motor that produces 1-3/4 peak horsepower to handle a range of jobs. For consistent, steady performance, the cam-lock lever enables simple coarse height adjustments. A quick fixed-base motor release allows th user to move the motor pack between plunge and d-handle bases (each sold seperately). Accurate to within 1/128 inch, a micro depth adjustor ensures optimum precision.
Rugged Construction with Dust-Sealed ComponentsAs durable as it is efficient, the router features a precision-machined aluminum motor housing and base. A dust-sealed switch and sealed ball-bearing construction guard against wear and tear--even in a hardworking shop or busy jobsite.
Fast Bit Removal and Ergonomic Design for Stability and ComfortFor user-friendly performance and consistency, the router includes an auto-release collet system for easy bit removal. An under-table stop prevents the motor from inadvertantly rotating out of the base, and ergonomic molded grips keep your hands and wrists comfortable, even during extended jobs.
Dimensions and Warranty InformationThe 690LR Fixed-Base Router measures 12.0 by 5.50 by 8.62 inches (L x W x H), weighs 8.0 pounds, and is backed by a three-year warranty.
What's in the BoxRouter with motor, fixed base, 1/4-inch and 1/2-inch collets, collet wrench, and operating manual.

Aluminum motor housing and basefor stability during operation.
Auto-release collet systemfor easy bit removal.

Technical Details

11 amp motor producing 1-3/4 peak hp, 27,500 rpm single speed motor
Precision machined aluminum motor housing and base
Cam lock lever enables simple coarse height adjustments and motor release (fixed base)
Micrometer depth adjuster accurate to 1/128-inch
Dust-sealed switch and sealed ball bearing construction enhance tool durability

Porter-Cable 690LR 11-Amp Fixed-Base Router

Customer Reviews

This review is predominantly for the hobbyist assessing which router to buy and looking for a 1-3/4hp router.
i own this router (690LR), and also the 690VSLR (variable speed). If you plan on using this router in a table and are going to use large bits (like stile and rail) you need to get the variable speed so you can run it at lower speeds. You only want to use larger bits in a router table.
Everyone complains the switch is in an inconvenient location. Me too. Though, this is not a show stopper.
i have 4 different bases for this router. Plunge, D-handle, fixed base, and plain jane base for the router table. Plunge base is good. Love the D-handle as switch is right there on the handle! Point is, you can buy this router and then as your needs arise buy different bases. Changing motor into various bases is very easy. Can even buy new motor. Also, brushes are easy to access and change.
Since this is the standard in routers there are a ton of after market items to use with this router (edge guides, bushings, etc...).
Takes two wrenches to change bits. Some would make this out to be a big deal. It is not. Changing bits is a snap.
You will find other reviewers that do not like having to remove the motor to change bits. But, removing/installing the motor is a very easy venture. If you think this is going to be a problem, do not like the power switch location and are only looking for a fixed base router you should also strongly consider the Milwaukee 5615-20.
Rated 4 stars based on power switch location, and find the micro adjustment capabilties are not as strong as they could be.
Porter Cable is still the standard in routers. This is a quality router. If expandability and compatibility with after market items is desired then this is a great choice.
PS - for about 50$ more you can buy this router in a combo kit with a Plunge base (693LRPK).

I got frustrated with my Craftsman Professional router when I apparently bought the only model that didn't support their guide bushings. So, I went out and bought this Porter-Cable router so I could use my dovetail jig. Like others, I find this router to be great for doing hand routing, and like other reviewers, I don't like where the switch is located. I'm so afraid that I'm going to do a number on my arm sometime when I'm not careful, because you actually have to lift one hand off the router in order to turn it on and off. That said, it has a very solid feel and I use it for all my hand routing needs (the Craftsman router is now permanently attached to my router table)