Milwaukee Clear, 7" Diameter, 1-3/16" Center Hole Sub-Base

Evaluating a router accessory often brings surprises—some pleasant, others less so. The Clear, 7" Diameter, 1-3/16" Center Hole Sub-Base from Milwaukee (model 49-54-1026), designed to fit various routers including the Milwaukee 5625-20, promised a high-strength polycarbonate construction and an industry-standard center hole. My experience with this sub-base, however, revealed a mix of usability and unexpected limitations.

First Impressions and Build Quality

On first inspection, the sub-base lives up to Milwaukee's reputation for producing robust tools. The clear polycarbonate material feels sturdy and resilient, which is crucial for enduring the wear and tear of frequent use. At 7 inches in diameter, the size is standard, fitting comfortably on multiple router models without any fuss. The construction is transparent, which is an excellent feature for visibility during precise routing tasks.

Installation and Fit

Installing the sub-base was straightforward. The bolt design and hole pattern are in line with what one would expect for popular production routers. It mounted onto my Milwaukee 5625-20 without any hiccups, and the fit was snug, ensuring stability while routing. However, I immediately noticed a significant flaw—the 1-3/16" center hole.

The Center Hole Conundrum

The 1-3/16" center hole is advertised as industry standard, but my experience suggests otherwise. In typical router bases, this dimension usually includes a lip or recess allowing template guides to rest securely. This sub-base, however, features a through-hole design, which means there's no lip to hold the guide in place. This oversight renders the sub-base incompatible with many common template guides and accessories, such as dovetail jigs. For anyone who relies on template guides for pattern routing, this is a dealbreaker.

Performance in Use

Despite the central hole issue, I proceeded to test the sub-base under various routing conditions. When used without template guides, the sub-base performed admirably. The clear polycarbonate allowed for excellent visibility, which made it easier to follow lines and patterns with precision. The sub-base's overall stability contributed to smooth and accurate cuts, a hallmark of Milwaukee's design philosophy.

Compatibility and Versatility

The sub-base's design suggests it should be a versatile addition to any router setup, but the lack of compatibility with industry-standard guides significantly hampers its versatility. While it fits well on the Milwaukee 5625-20 and other popular routers, its usability is constrained to tasks that don't require template guides. This limitation reduces the sub-base from a potentially essential accessory to a situational tool, suitable only for specific routing tasks.

Craftsmanship and Durability

In terms of craftsmanship, Milwaukee has delivered a high-quality product. The polycarbonate material is tough and shows no signs of stress or wear even after extended use. The machining and finish are impeccable, which is expected from a brand like Milwaukee. For general routing tasks, the sub-base is a reliable and durable choice. However, the design flaw concerning the center hole's lack of a lip detracts from its overall utility.

Value for Money

Considering the sub-base's build quality and the ease of installation, one might initially consider it good value for money. However, the inability to use standard template guides severely limits its functionality, which is a significant drawback. For users who don't rely on template guides, this might not be an issue, making the sub-base a decent investment. For those who frequently use such guides, the value proposition diminishes considerably.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

In summary, the Clear, 7" Diameter, 1-3/16" Center Hole Sub-Base by Milwaukee is a well-constructed accessory with a critical flaw. The high-strength polycarbonate material ensures durability, and the clear design aids in precision routing. Installation is a breeze, and it fits securely on compatible routers. However, the lack of a recessed lip for template guides makes it unsuitable for many routing applications.

Would I recommend this sub-base? It depends on your needs. If your routing tasks don't require the use of template guides, this sub-base offers solid performance and durability. Its clear design improves visibility, and its robust construction will likely withstand heavy use. However, if you frequently use template guides, this sub-base will not meet your needs, and you might want to look elsewhere.

In conclusion, Milwaukee's sub-base is a sturdy and reliable accessory with a significant limitation. For general routing tasks, it performs well. But for those who need compatibility with template guides, this sub-base falls short. Careful consideration of your specific routing requirements is essential before making a purchase.