Skil Router Table and Fixed Base Router Kit

In my quest to find a versatile and reliable router table setup, I came across the Skil Router Table and Fixed Base Router Kit, model RT1323-01. As someone who regularly engages in woodworking projects, I found the idea of having an integrated system quite appealing. This kit comes with a router table and a fixed base router that, on paper, appears to cover most of the needs one might have in a woodworking shop.

Assembly of the router table was straightforward and hassle-free. The instructions were clear, and I had everything up and running in less than an hour. One of the first things I noticed was the build quality. The router table is solid and well-constructed, although some parts, like the legs, are made of plastic. Initially, I had reservations about the durability of these plastic components, but they surprised me with their stability.

The table measures 26 x 16 inches, which is adequate for most small to medium-scale projects. The router itself is quite potent with a 10 Amp motor, capable of running between 10,000 to 25,000 rpm. This range is impressive and allows for considerable flexibility depending on the material being worked on. The variable speed control dial is a nice touch and adds to the overall usability of the router.

One of the standout features of this setup is the above-the-table adjustment for the router. This makes fine-tuning the depth a breeze and saves time compared to more cumbersome systems. However, the process of changing bits isn’t as smooth. The positioning of the router under the table makes accessing the collet lock button a bit awkward. Unlike more advanced tables where you can raise the router entirely for bit changes, here you need to remove the router from underneath, which can be cumbersome.

The router table comes with an integrated bit storage system that keeps everything organized. This is a small but thoughtful addition that I found quite handy. The table also includes an aluminum miter gauge slot which, while a good idea in theory, falls short in practice due to its loose fit. The miter gauge itself has too much play, making it less effective for precise work.

The fence is another area where the table could use some improvement. It’s made of MDF and tends to flex under pressure, which can be problematic when you're aiming for precise cuts. The adjustment knobs also don’t provide a very secure lock, making it difficult to keep the fence stable during operations. For tasks requiring higher precision, I found myself avoiding the fence altogether.

One feature that deserves praise is the inclusion of LED lights. These are positioned to give better visibility of the work area, which is particularly helpful when working in a dimly lit space. It’s a small detail, but it makes a significant difference in the user experience.

Dust collection is an essential aspect of any woodworking tool, and this setup has a few shortcomings in that department. The dust collection nozzle was broken when I unpacked the kit, and replacing it requires changing the entire fence. The plastic doors for tool storage don’t lock in place, and the shelves also feel somewhat flimsy.

Despite these issues, the router itself performs exceptionally well. It’s robust and handles both soft and hardwoods with ease. The slow start-up feature is excellent for preventing any sudden jerks that could spoil a cut. Over several months of heavy usage, the router has shown no signs of slowing down, which speaks to its durability and build quality.

One of the most significant drawbacks is the lack of a plunge base. Skil doesn’t offer a plunge base for this model, which limits the types of tasks you can perform. While the fixed base is suitable for many operations, the ability to switch to a plunge base would have made this kit far more versatile.

Overall, the Skil Router Table and Fixed Base Router Kit offers a lot of value, especially considering its price point. It’s a great entry-level option for hobbyists and those looking to tackle small to medium woodworking projects. The sturdy build, powerful router, and convenient features like above-the-table adjustment and LED lights make it a compelling choice.

However, it’s not without its flaws. The fence needs improvement, the bit changing process is cumbersome, and the lack of a plunge base is a significant limitation. If you’re looking for a high-precision setup or plan to do more advanced woodworking tasks like raised panels or custom trim work, you might find these shortcomings limiting.

Would I recommend the Skil Router Table and Fixed Base Router Kit? Yes, but with reservations. It’s an excellent value for the price and is well-suited for beginners and hobbyists. If you’re looking for a more professional-grade setup with fewer compromises, you might want to explore other options. But for its price and the range of features it offers, it’s hard to beat this Skil combo.