Ryobi 2 Peak HP Plunge Router

When I first got my hands on the Ryobi 2 Peak HP Plunge Router (model RE180PL1G), I was excited to explore its capabilities and see if it could hold its own in my workshop. As a woodworker with a penchant for both DIY projects and more intricate woodworking tasks, I was looking for a reliable and versatile router that could handle a variety of jobs. Here's my in-depth take on this tool after putting it through its paces.

Initial Impressions and Setup

Straight out of the box, the Ryobi Plunge Router feels robust and solid. Weighing in at 8.5 lbs, it has a substantial heft that gives it a sturdy feel but is not so heavy that it becomes unwieldy. The ergonomically designed handles are a nice touch, providing a comfortable grip that makes maneuvering the router relatively straightforward.

Setting up the router was fairly intuitive. It comes with a 1/2 inch collet and a 1/4 inch adaptor, which adds to its versatility by allowing the use of different bit sizes. The spindle lock feature simplifies bit changes, a crucial aspect when you're working on multiple tasks that require different bits. However, I did notice that the collet and adaptor mechanism felt a bit finicky, and securing bits tightly sometimes required extra effort.

Performance and Power

With a 2 HP, 10-Amp motor, the Ryobi Plunge Router boasts a variable speed range from 15,000 to 25,000 RPM. This range is impressive and should be more than adequate for most woodworking applications. During my testing, I found that the motor was indeed powerful, handling both softwoods and hardwoods without much strain. The variable speed adjustment is a useful feature, allowing for better control depending on the type of wood and bit being used.

However, the plunge mechanism left much to be desired. The plunge action was not as smooth as I would have liked; it required significant downward pressure to achieve deeper cuts. This can be particularly challenging when trying to maintain precision on more delicate tasks. The micro-adjustable depth stop is a great concept in theory, but in practice, it felt somewhat imprecise.

Usability and Comfort

One of the standout features is the router's ergonomic design. The handles are comfortable, which is a big plus during extended use. The tool also includes a simple guard to prevent chips from flying into your face, a thoughtful addition that enhances safety.

However, the depth lock mechanism proved to be problematic. It often failed to hold the plunge depth securely, which can lead to inconsistent cuts and, in some cases, ruined workpieces. This issue became more pronounced over time, as the lock seemed to wear out and become less effective.

Build Quality and Durability

Ryobi is known for producing budget-friendly tools, and while this router has a lot of potential, it also exhibits some of the trade-offs that come with a lower price point. The overall build quality feels robust, but there are noticeable areas where the router falls short.

The plunge rails are sticky and not as smooth as they should be, which affects the tool's accuracy. Additionally, the springs are too strong, making it difficult to achieve a smooth plunge action. After just a few uses, the plunge lock mechanism started to loosen, which is a significant drawback.

Versatility and Applications

The Ryobi Plunge Router is versatile enough to handle a variety of tasks, from edge routing to more intricate inlays and joinery. The ability to use both 1/2 inch and 1/4 inch bits adds to its versatility. However, the challenges with the plunge mechanism and depth lock limit its effectiveness for more precise work.

For simpler tasks like edge trimming or basic mortising, the router performs adequately. It’s also a decent option for DIYers and beginners who are looking to get started with woodworking without breaking the bank. However, for more advanced projects that require high precision and reliability, this router may not be the best choice.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

After spending considerable time with the Ryobi 2 Peak HP Plunge Router, I have mixed feelings about this tool. It offers a lot of power and some useful features at a very attractive price point. The ergonomic design and the ability to use different bit sizes are definite advantages.

However, the issues with the plunge mechanism, depth lock, and overall precision make it a less-than-ideal choice for more demanding woodworking tasks. If you're a beginner or a DIY enthusiast looking for a budget-friendly router for occasional use, this tool might serve your needs adequately. But if you require a reliable and precise router for more complex projects, investing in a higher-quality model from a more established brand would be a better choice.

In conclusion, I would cautiously recommend the Ryobi Plunge Router for light to moderate use, particularly for those who are just starting out in woodworking. For more experienced woodworkers or those with demanding projects, it’s worth considering other options that offer better precision and reliability.