Makita RD1101 2-1/4 HP* D-Handle Router

Taking the Makita out of the box, you can tell immediately, by the heft, fit and finish, it's a serious piece of equipment. Pros: - Two collet sizes. I have a mixture of 1/2" and 1/4" shank bits. The Makita comes with both size collets. - D handle. Makes control *very* easy, especially for those moments when you need to one hand the router. Keeps it under control, and comfortable. - QUIET!!! I've never had a router this quiet. I literally had to check to make sure it was doing what it was supposed to, the first time I turned it on. - Powerful. 2-1/4 HP. Smoothly chews through anything (with a good bit). - Adjustable speed. Allows max speed changes based on what your routing. Cons: - The plastic chip deflector is an option. This is ridiculous. It's a cheap piece of plastic that should be INCLUDED with the router. - No case or bag included. All my power tools are cased and protected. This means I need to run out and buy a case for protection, transporting, etc. All in all, the best router I've owned. Would definitely buy again, and would definitely recommend.

I used a Porter Cable router for 30 years until it recently gave up the ghost. I was skeptical about using anything else, but I absolutely love this Makita router (and the technology improvements that have been made since the 90's). However, it does have one very annoying thing about it. Unlike my Porter Cable router, the scale ring on this one does not have paint in the numbers (simply molded in, black on black), making it very hard to read and adjust the depth. Makita should spend the extra ten cents per router to highlight the numbers on the scale ring with paint.

1. The router runs relatively quietly, as does my Makita RF 1101. Soft start is essential and works well. 2. The large collet wrenches cannot be used to loosen the collet with the base attached (not enough room in the base windows). 3. The collets are very well built and do not let bits slide up or down during use. 4. The balance is very good, somewhat better than on my Bosch D handle 1618 EVS, which is itself a good router. 5. The depth adjustment is somewhat coarse and requires trial and error, but the router holds its depth setting when locked down. 6. I cannot find a dust collector attachment for the base windows. 7. The base is 5 3/4" diameter, different from the more standard 6" bases used in my PC and Bosch routers. New jigs were needed.

I ultimately returned its cousin which has the customary dual knob handles. Why? Because this a relatively heavy tool compared to the compact trimmer/router I owned. I didn’t want to hold a heavy router with a bit spinning at 20k RPM while I seek the power switch to turn it off. I like that this D handle model has a generous handle, an operation trigger, and power switch.

Thing is a freaking beast. Ran this flat out on a 2" carbide flattening bit for several hours straight. Not a hiccup, bit didn't walk in the collet, and was barely warm by the end of it. Fantastic tool, very pleased. The other bonuses are things like a very gentle soft start, good silicone cord, shockingly quiet operation (for a router), excellent torque at RPM, a very nice and tight head bearing. All in all just a great tool, very pleased several hours of hard use in.

I have had this router for several months now and have used it on hardwood and softwoods. It does a great job. It starts smooth, has very low vibration and is reasonably quiet - more importantly, it just feels good in your hands. It has 50% more juice than the 1 1/2 horse power routers but is not so big as to be unwieldy. My only complaint involves the collet. You need to use two wrenches to tighten (or loosen) the collet. The thin stamped wrenches provided with the tool are tough on your hands and slip off the nuts easily. I would definitely buy this tool again but I would consider getting the plunge base accessory package (with the RF1101) to eliminate the hassle of removing the router base from the router table.

Great router. Used to build marimbas and other projects. Adjustments are easy and bit change is simple. A little heavy for one handed use but I have done it.

I have several routers, 15-18 and different brands and this is my go to router. I’m a big guy with xlarge hands and it fits them perfect. Plenty of power, well made, smooth, quiet as a router can be, and my pick over PC and DeWalt. Will buy again without hesitation!

Muy buen producto recomendado funcionando muy bien

Bought this for template work and stair building-awesome router great control with D handle

Great router I love the soft start. It runs smoother than my porter cable.

Great router and worth the money!

I really like the handle with the switch.