Porter-Cable 693LRPK 1-3/4 HP Fixed Router and Plunge Base Kit

Tuesday, April 3, 2012

Product Details

Shipping Weight: 21.2 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.
Shipping Advisory: This item must be shipped separately from other items in your order. Additional shipping charges will not apply.
ASIN: B00006411C
California residents: Click here for Proposition 65 warning.
Item model number: 693LRPK

By : Porter-Cable
Price : $169.55
You Save : $230.33 (58%)

Product Description

Amazon.com Product Description
The Porter-Cable 693LRPK 11 Amp fixed router and plunge base kit utilizes a hefty 1-3/4 HP motor to generate a mind-blowing 27,500 RPM for ultra-precise cuts. The six-position adjustable turret makes stepped plunge cuts quick and easy, and motor transitions between fixed and plunge base extremely fast. The micrometer depth adjuster keeps things incredibly precise to 1/128 of an inch. To ensure years of top-notch performance, the 690LR is equipped with a dust-sealed switch and sealed ball bearings to keep dust out. The included collets will accept 1/4-inch and 1/2-inch shank bits. Routing is made easy with the dual, ergonomic rubber handles strategically mounted on the router for easy, comfortable operation.
From the Manufacturer
Porter-Cable’s 693LRPK multi-base router kit is ideal for woodworking, cabinet shops, remodeling, custom millwork and trim installations where routing applications from edge-forming dadoes to panel raising with a router table are accomplished. The 11 amp, 27,500 RPM router motor is the power plant. An easy to use cam lock lever enables quick adjustment and base changing. It accepts collets for 1/4 and 1/2 inch shank bits and features an auto-release collet system minimizing frozen bits. When used upside down in a router table, an integrated stop prevents motor from rotating out of the base. The unit ships with fixed and plunge bases, collets, wrench, and kit box. Ninety-day money back guarantee, 3 year limited warranty, 1 year free service contract.

Technical Details

11 Amp motor producing 1-3/4 Peak hp
27,500 rpm single speed motor
Cam lock lever enables simple coarse height adjustments and motor release (fixed base)
Micrometer depth adjustor accurate to 1/128-inch (fixed base)
Motor transitions quickly and easily between fixed and plunge base; 6-position adjustable turret allows for stepped plunge cuts

Porter-Cable 693LRPK 1-3/4 HP Fixed Router and Plunge Base Kit

Customer Reviews

The first router I bought was a Ryobi R160 1 1/2 hp with 1/4" collet. I was just getting into woodworking and trying to save money. I upgraded to the 693 about six months ago and overall am pleased but there are things I would change if I could.
The first is the lack of a spindle lock requiring two wrenches. The Ryobi had that feature and I miss it. Haven't busted any knuckles, but it is more trouble to change bits.
The biggest problem is the fixed base lock. It is worthless. P-C dropped the ball on this aspect. I have read around the net and found several others voicing the same thing-some have even removed the "locking tab" using only a regular nut and bolt in it's place!
I miss the trigger power switch on the handle, but this is due to the interchanging of bases/handles.
It has good power and is reliable so far. I bought another fixed base and mounted under my table saw extension for a router table, so for the versatility of 3 routers for the relatively low cost it is alright. I would like to buy a bigger router to mount permanently in the table, and I would buy P-C again.

The Router has plenty of power. I used it on 3/4" birch plywood to cut out some cabinet door openings and it handled the task effortlessly, not even a splinter. The draw backs... the knuckle buster bit change system. I can't believe a company as good as PC can't / won't do better. Very disappointing. Invest in the D-handle base. It is by far the most convenient and SAFEST of them all. Dust flies everywhere, so have safety goggles (glasses are not enough).