Black & Decker MATRIX Router Attachment

The Black & Decker MATRIX Router Attachment, model BDCMTR, is a versatile addition to the MATRIX tool system that promises to deliver precision and convenience for a variety of woodworking tasks. As someone who regularly works on both small and medium-sized woodworking projects, I was keen to put this attachment through its paces.

Design and Build

Straight out of the box, the MATRIX Router Attachment feels solid yet lightweight, weighing in at just 1.3 lbs. This makes it easy to handle for extended periods without causing fatigue. Its compact dimensions (8.4 inches in height, 7.3 inches in length, and 3.7 inches in width) make it an excellent option for those tight spots where a full-sized router would be cumbersome. The spindle lock button, which allows for single-wrench bit changes, is a standout feature. However, I did find it a bit tricky to engage consistently, which could be frustrating when you’re in the middle of a project.

Performance

The router attachment offers variable speed control, which is essential for precision work. Depending on the MATRIX base you’re using, the RPM ranges from 0-6800 for a 12V MAX to 0-9000 for a 20V MAX, and 0-7300 for an AC 4A. This variability allows for a good range of applications, from light edge work to more intricate tasks.

During my testing, I found the router to perform admirably on softer woods like pine and cedar. It handles rounding, chamfering, and ogee cuts with ease, providing a smooth finish that requires minimal sanding. However, when it came to harder woods or more detailed trim work, the router struggled a bit, particularly in maintaining consistent power and speed.

Ease of Use

One of the most appealing aspects of the MATRIX Router Attachment is its ease of use. The quick adjust button allows for depth adjustments of up to 1 inch, making it simple to switch between different cutting depths on the fly. This feature is particularly useful when working on projects that require multiple passes for a cleaner finish.

However, there are some drawbacks. The attachment lacks a helper base or edge guide, which makes it challenging to control, especially when routing further from the edge of the workpiece. This can be a safety concern, as the router becomes harder to manage and more prone to wobbling. To mitigate this, I often had to clamp guide beams on either side of the router base, which added extra steps to my workflow.

Versatility

The MATRIX Router Attachment excels in its versatility, particularly for light-duty tasks. I used it to build a small bookshelf, cutting grooves for the shelves and rounding over the edges. The router performed well, and the final product looked polished and professional. However, for more demanding projects, such as cabinet trim or detailed dovetail joints, the router falls short. It simply doesn’t have the power or stability required for these tasks.

Setup and Installation

Setting up the MATRIX Router Attachment is straightforward, especially if you’re already familiar with the MATRIX system. It snaps onto the base unit with ease, and the spindle lock button simplifies bit changes. However, as mentioned earlier, the spindle lock can be finicky, which detracts from the otherwise smooth setup process.

Durability

In terms of durability, the MATRIX Router Attachment holds up well under regular use. The build quality is decent, and the materials used seem robust enough to withstand the rigors of woodworking. I’ve been using it for several months now, and it shows no signs of wear or tear.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Lightweight and Compact: Easy to handle and maneuver, especially in tight spaces.
• Variable Speed Control: Offers a good range of speeds for different tasks.
• Quick Adjust Button: Facilitates easy depth adjustments.
• Spindle Lock Button: Allows for single-wrench bit changes, although it can be tricky to engage.

Cons:

• Lacks Power for Heavy-Duty Tasks: Struggles with harder woods and detailed trim work.
• No Helper Base or Edge Guide: Makes it challenging to control, especially when routing further from the edge.
• Spindle Lock Issues: Can be difficult to keep engaged, complicating bit changes.

Final Thoughts

The Black & Decker MATRIX Router Attachment is a valuable addition to any DIYer’s toolkit, particularly for those who already own other MATRIX tools. It excels in light-duty tasks and offers a level of precision and convenience that is hard to beat in its price range. However, it does have its limitations, particularly when it comes to more demanding projects.

Would I recommend the MATRIX Router Attachment? Yes, but with some reservations. If you’re looking for a versatile, easy-to-use router for small to medium-sized projects, this attachment is a fantastic option. However, if your work involves heavy-duty tasks or intricate detail work, you might find it lacking in power and stability. Overall, it’s a solid tool for the right applications, and its ease of use and versatility make it a worthwhile investment for hobbyists and light-duty professionals alike.