Before you start shopping for a router lift, there are a few important features to consider. The JessEm router takes a couple of minutes to set it operational. 6. If you use routers that are 3-hp or higher, you are sure to have a saggy result over time if you dont use any cross-bracing or support. Router bits are just like saw blades, and wood chips and dust can stop them from functioning correctly. The KREG PRS5000 Precision Router Lift is our pick as the best router lift overall. Thanks to that, they fit most router sizes, at least the most common ones. Looks like it has lots of travel. 5 images maximum / 31.25MB per image / jpeg, pjpeg, png, gif. JessEm made a ground-breaking statement with this product. Router lifts are often an afterthought, but they are crucial for opening up your routers versatility. Top Plate Dimensions: 9 1/4" 11 3/4" x 3/8". The router lift contains a reinforced CNC machined phenolic top plate. There is a serious downside to using the INCRA router is that it only works with Rockler tables, so unless you have one, this option is off the table. Remember, if you plan on changing your router or table in the future, you will have to check the compatibility again, so you may want to look at some of the options youll have. With special level screws and plate thickness, the SawStop RT-LFT Four-Post Router Lift with Lock can function with most router tables models without any problem. Well tell you the pros and cons and give you our opinion on which one is the best. Its made from quality parts that can also rival high-end router lifts. Added tension to the spindle helps reduce vibration and backlash. Connect and transact with thousands of top North American companies today. JessEm Rout-R-Lift has a dedicated lock mechanism that prevents the rotation of the axle. With a bit of familiarization with router lifts and how to choose the best one, shopping for the best router lift becomes a bit more straightforward. The PRS5000 comes with an in-built micro-adjust scaling system. Unless there is a router table designed specifically for a router, its best to go the universal path. This is helpful for routing dadosor groovesin cabinet doors for center panels, molding profiles on expensive wood species, and other detail-oriented milling processes. It features a micro-adjusting wheel that helps you connect it with varying models. This model works best for professionals or casual users looking for a high-end router lift. If you have more than one router or may have to change your router during your work, then you should invest in a router lift with multiple insert holes and adapters. These rings drop into the surface of the router lift and close off some of the gap between the bit and the table surface. Its a no-brainer when you find all the fantastic features of this products professional router-lift. Router lifts allow you to raise and lower your router motors a lot easier and faster. Fast and precise height adjustments using the handle, Not compatible with a wide range of routers, It lacks some essential parts that would lead to more purchase, Compact-size design that doesnt take up a lot of space on your router table, Designed for swift and easy assembly, you wouldnt have to spend hours trying to fix the router lift together, It comes with a pack of leveling screws and a machine for easy assembly, Works with a superior lock/unlock system. The router lift is a very handy and practical way to boost the ease of use and versatility of your router table. They hold the router motor upside down, with the router bit protruding above the surface. However, you should note that the JessEm Rout-R-Lift II Router Lift is only compatible with a few routers. If you want to upgrade to a different top later, you don't want to buy new plates or, gasp, new lift. A router lift is an extra router plate designed to fit into the router. The in-built locking system, this model comes with an in-built locking system that works above the router table. For its price,the JessEm Rout-R-Lift II Router Lift comes with so many unique features you would find in professional router lifts. Although it is not made high-quality like most products on the upper part of this list, it still makes a perfect candidate for a classic router lift. It is very ultra-responsive and highly accurate in cutting. You can seamlessly alter the height of your bits with better precision. All professional woodworkers and enthusiast need stability during their time on the project. The router offers more accuracy and precision. Best Professional Router Lift - Incra Mast-R-Lift II. The Router Lift FX is an easy-to-use router. Company. It has a 16 tooth per inch (TPI) lift screw mechanism for even more control over the table height. While the Rout-R-Lift II might not cost a ton, it doesnt sacrifice where it counts. For a router to work with a router lift, it must be able to separate from the base. The collars typically come in sizes to fit the router motor such as 3, 3, and 4 inches. Iron is durable but its heavy and it also corrodes and rusts quickly. Another customer suggested shopping around for rings from other router models as they can be cheaper than the Mast-R-Lift II options (they found a bargain of five reducing rings for under US$100). By holding the router motor upside down, the router lift allows the router bits to stick out of the workbench. If theres uncertainty about a routers size, measuring across the motor with a measuring tape or ruler will help. The lighter it is, the easier it will be to drop in place. Bench Dog Tools(such as the Bench Dog tools 40-150 prolift) and Kreg router lift also provide great options for quality router table lifts. Here are some things to think about before choosing the best router lift for your table. Its a very inconvenient and inaccurate way to set up your router. Handheld routing is not nearly as accurate as table-mounted routing, but its difficult to adjust the cutting bits height or change it without climbing under the table. A router lift will save you lots of valuable time and enhance the speed and accuracy of your router. This JessEm bundle is compatible with PORTER-CABLE, DeWALT, and Bosch router lifts and includes a 10-piece twist lock insert rings set. Kregs PRS2100 benchtop router tableprovides the industrial strength and power of a full-size router table at a portable size, whether youre in the shop, garage, or on a worksite, this precision router table offers the accurate depth and height adjustments you need to make your woodworking project a success. The Master lift has a better plate and can accept a larger motor. We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Many of the best router lifts feature multipoint locking systems to keep the motor right where it needs to be. Comes with 3 insert ring to reduce the size of the opening in the plate, with the . If you are also getting a custom router table,you should make sure this route lift fits perfectly without reeling the crank gauge. The plates need to fit the openings in the top of these tables. Standard mounts found on a router lift has a lot of benefits that one cant pass by. The INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift is a perfect choice for users who value quality and precision. Identically, there are various other models that are tested by the professionals and . The router lift is great to have. The 02120 has a universal attachment system that works with most fixed-base router systems regardless of brand or size. Easy to assemble and use. They can be used for the sanding, shaping, and detailing of different wood. I dont do a lot of routing so I dont need the best out there. Features Lightweight: At only 8.8 lbs, you can easily carry this lift to your workplace. Another factor you should verify before you buy a router lift is its compatibility with your router. The great benefit of a router lift is its ability to adjust the height to the router motor and the router bit to the ideal height for the project. The INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift has a five-ball bearing system that gives users total control. The right router lift also comes with a solid mount where you can bolt in your router plates. I love to make things. The JessEm looks good and appears to have good reviews. It only weighs 1 pound and fits many popular routers. These lifts can be the way to go if you tend to use different routers, arent sure which size you own, or plan to upgrade and would like a bit of flexibility. The Rout-R-Lift II comes in 5 different styles depending on the router and router diameter you plan to use. Due to a router lifts design, the lifts work surface supports all of the weight. Following is a collection of some of the most frequently asked questions about router table lifts, so be sure to check for an answer to your question below. It's made from quality parts that can also rival high-end router lifts. BuildEazy is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. The Kreg Precision Router Lift provides a router setup with high precision and it has a micro-adjusting wheel (for 1/1000th of an inch) which works quite perfectly. Its perfect for those still experimenting with a router and not looking to make a long-term commitment. The carriage comes with either a crank handle or a thumbwheel that you can use to adjust the height of the router. It helps to increase accuracy and precision, which makes your finished products have a professional touch. Key features: Variable speed: 8,000 to 24,000 RPM One thing we liked about this router was the price. Many of the best router lifts come with adapters for fitting a variety of routers. See all products JOINERY ACCESSORIES This model is for 3.5-inch diameter motors, but you have five style choices depending on what size router you want to use. This model features a smaller 8-1/4-Inch by the 11-3/4-Inch top plate with reliable two sealed ball bearings. Since that time other manufacturers such as Kreg and Incra have joined the market with top quality router lifts. It features a double-sealed ball-bearing design that allows for smooth and accurate adjustments while protecting the bearings against sawdust and unnecessary maintenance. Check the plate size that fits your router table before buying the router lift. We like the crank handle better, but the thumbscrew allows you to make extremely precise height adjustments. Most lifts come with adjustment handles that pop into screws in the surface of the lift, with clockwise turns lifting the router and counterclockwise turns lowering it. *Prices listed in this article were as shown on amazon.com (USA) as of December 2022. You can move it around your workshop with ease. I've been doing it my whole life. Check out my blog for some of my latest projects! The durability is top-notch as the lift is made from robust materials. Therefore, this makes it a perfect candidate for heavy-duty routers. Precision indexing ring with micro-adjust scale simplifies bit height changes. Users really need the router lift to alter and change the height of the bits during the process of routing. When you make the wrong investment and get a lift thats incompatible with your router, you would experience inconsistencies like vibrations when routing. The lift aids you get accurate readings while routing. At that point, a screw-type adjustment rod lifts the router up and down, bringing the bit above and below the work surface. Also, the micro-adjust scale and the index ring found in the router lift will greatly affect the accuracy when it comes to bit heights. Best Deck Sealer For Pressure-Treated Wood. Make sure you measure the plate in your existing routing table before you make a purchase and check the model you intend to buy as well. The most important thing to consider before choosing your router lift is if it will fit your router and your router table. Unique clamping system fits most fixed-base router . Twist the router counterclockwise until it stops (this is usually a very small twist), and pull the motor from the base. You will need to worry about making table adjustments when setting up your workspace and some router lifts make it easier than others. Incra Mast-R-Lift-II-R Designed for Rockler Tables. Woodworkers in production shops or scenarios can benefit from Incras Mast-R-Lift-II-R router lift. You can go for options like the handheld router for this purpose. JessEm's Pow-R-Tek Router Motor - (4.2" Motor Dia.) Thomas Register and Its 3/8-inch thick solid aluminum construction is durable and lightweight. If you are a professional craftsman or a beginner with lots of workshop hours working with a router, you should consider getting a router for the following reasons: The router lift has a heavy base plate, which prevents vibrations when you use the router. California Do Not Track Notice. Mounted it in a SawStop iron TS wing. Before purchasing a router lift, you must check the manufacturers specifications on essential details likecompatible routers. I like the Incra fence that you show in your link. If you acquire an Incra router table and a router that can fit into the lift, getting this product is recommended, but it is a terrible choice for some people, especially if they are on a budget. The JessEm Mast-R-Lift II Router Lift is an entry-level router-lift designed for routerslooking to own a lift without breaking the bank. Customers did complain about the difficulty of making smooth height adjustments but found this product much easier to use by hand or on a table. JessEm Rout-R-Lift II Router Lift for 3-1/2" Diameter Motors, JessEm 02310 676 9 offers from $217.75 From the manufacturer Compatible Routers Bosch 1617, 1618 3.5" Craftsman 17543, 17540, 28190 3.5" DeWalt 610, 616, 618 3.5" Felisatti RF62 3.675" Hitachi M12VC, KM12VC 3.267" Makita 1101 3.218" Milwaukee 5615, 5616, 5619 3.32" Milwaukee 5626 4.143" Whichever router lift you choose, ensure that it has a locking function to avoid frustration from a bit lowering from vibrations, causing inconsistent results from one end of a workpiece to the other. This kit features a lightweight design totaling just 8 pounds and a router table-friendly 9-inch by 11-inch size. It has all the features a professional router lift has for optimal function. Compatibility: with a 4.2'' (13.19'' circumference) motor diameter i.e. One thing to keep in mind is that a rockler table will only fit a router lift sold by rockler, I don't recall the size offhand but the kreg is a more "standard" size that fit the incra, jessem or woodpecker lifts. To help you make the right choice when you get a router lift, here are some frequently asked questions about router lifts: A router lift comes with a mounting plate and a carriage system that mainly use the ball bearing mechanism. I recommend. You may run into issues like broken plates or parts while uninstalling the router lift. Just to be sure, check it beforehand. With the new PRS5000, you no longer have to reach under your router table to change your bits or make height adjustments. Dont assume the router lift plate will accurately fit your router tables opening. Highly-rated for durability and versatility, this router lift might pose a learning curve for some more familiar with an entry-level router lift; reviews recommend looking up Youtube tutorial videos if youre more of a beginner or accustomed to a simpler model. Product Features of the JessEm Mast-R-Lift II. The top-precision milled plate measures 9 x 11 inches, and, with the double-sealed ball bearing systems, it provides smooth rotation for its entire lifespan. Using a Router lift has its own benefits, and any woodworking professional or enthusiast must have one. But if you dont mind, the router lift is a fantastic start. Each router lift will have a list of tools its compatible with, so you will need to find it for each model you consider. One customer complimented, I installed this in my all-in-one work center. Thus, if you are a heavy user looking for something out of the ordinary, then this model will be an appropriate match. This responsibility falls greatly on the low-friction ball bearing system. It also allows you to change your router bits from above the table, which is impossible without them. The product offers optimum versatility and a high level of accuracy for height adjustments on the router. This router lift from Kreg provides more configuration reliability for a multitude of tasks. Best Portable Table: Bosch RA1141 Portable Router Table; 9. The router is out of the way when not in use and gives me use of the entire table for my other projects., Compatibility: PORTER-CABLE, DeWALT, and Bosch router lifts. This mechanism is handy when making tiny adjustments. All router lift has this information to guide buyers. It includes several collars that allow you to use the lift with different sized router motors, and it also comes with the required hex wrenches. You can easily adjust the height of your bits even when there is a material on the plates, Cam lock mechanism that holds the lift in place, Features an in-built micro-adjust scaling system, Auto-leveling system for enhanced precision, It comes with a set of twist lock insert rings for better control and accuracy, Features a 3-stop auto-leveling system for better height adjustment, Improved accuracy and precision using the thumbwheel system, Best for professionals who are looking to seamlessly adjust the height of their bits without any other additional tools, Compact design that fits into an averagely sized router table, An improved version of the PRS5000 with an in-built micro-adjust scaling system, Designed for professionals looking to work long hours on their routing table, Not the perfect fit for big-sized router bits, The Mast-R-Lift II has five double sealed bearings. We also found that the instructions are poorly written and didnt help us install the router lift. But in most cases, the motor is permanently attached. Thanks to the built-in chain-synchronized design, the adjustment mechanism is very sharp and responsive. However, if you are looking for something more specific, the PORTER-CABLE 4216 12-inch dovetail combo kit (US$291.58, Amazon) gives you a larger wood capacity range. This drop-in kit features an 8-inch by 11-inch aluminum work surface that will fit in many smaller router tables, and it also is suitable for custom setups on smaller workbenches. You should go for a router lift with this system so you will enjoy smooth height adjustments while routing. We also found no list of compatible routers anywhere, including their website, so choosing it for your table is a bit risky. The JessEm Rout-R-Lift II Router Lift for 3-1/2 Diameter Motors is a very durable, top-notch tool made with long-lasting materials. The router clamps into the router lift from underneath. If you heavily use a router and you are looking for something different from other routers, the. This router lift is more of an entry-level router lift in the JessEm series. The router lift is made of anodized aluminum. You would think that the price tag is because the INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II Router Lift will be compatible with almost all sizes, brands, and types, but that is not the case. I have a sawstop cabinet saw with wood side tables. The JessEm Mast-R-Lift II 02120 Router Lift features an exclusive cam locking system that prevents dropouts while you are working. Did you test Rocklers Pro lifts?If so how did they compare to the ones you tested? BACKYARD WOODSHOP 14.7K subscribers Subscribe 129K views 5 years ago I compare Incra Ls Positioner, against the Kreg Router Fence and. This tool features easy installation and it works with large diameter routers. I purchased the INCRA Mast-R-Lift-II-R lift at the same time, from the same Rockler store, and they confirmed the two were compatible. Not all routers will work with router lifts. Thomas Regional are part of Thomasnet.com. Both very good and built very well. Like all router lifts, the shaft mounts with a hydraulic press attached to the router lift plate via a screw for a rigid, solid mount. When it comes to long-term durability, material is a significant factor. Dedicated cam-lock mechanism prevents spindle rotation. Thus, a router lift offers you versatile ways of using your router. The Incra Mast-R-Lift-II-R Router Lift features a very precise height-adjusting system that uses a printed gauge that will tell you exactly how much distance the table moved. All in all, the product offers excellent precision for its standards. Weaker materials will deteriorate quicker; they will also allow more vibrations to occur, which can ruin the lifts accuracy. Another innovation is the micro-adjust thumb wheel. Not all router lifts are compatible with every router type. The BD includes a decent router table fence, which can mount either inboard or outboard of the router bit (there are two sets of mounting slots for the fence in the table extension.) The JessEm Mast-R-Lift II 02120 Router Lift features an exclusive cam locking system that prevents dropouts while you are working. I have the more conventional type of fence with rails on either side of the table top. Also, to achieve this, the insert plates going on the router table should be very stable for a clean and professional cut. Mind you, there are two sizes of this lift and the one . Its 3/8-inch thick solid aluminum construction is durable and lightweight. Also, while router lifts can be installed in any flat work surface with the right measurements and tools, theyre specially designed to fit router tables. In terms of those slight adjustments, when you rotate the adjusting crank once, it moves the bit upward or downward precisely by 1/16 inches. We are here to help you! If your router allows you to separate the motor from the base, you can attach the motor to a router lift. The PORTER-CABLE 6931 is a replacement basefor plunge routers models 690, 9690, and 691. ROUTER TABLE Inventors of the Router Lift in 1999, JessEm Tools offers a variety of router tools and accessories from lifts, plates, fences, table tops and stands. Mechanical Router Lift OFL2.0K in KREG format One thing we like about the SawStop RT-LFT Four-Post Router Lift with Lock is that of is an exclusive product that comes with different but handy features. The lift replaces the standard insert plate (9-14" x 11-34" x 38") in all Kreg router tables plus many popular brands. Sometimes, having the money to invest or the space to store a router table is not an option, but, thankfully, a professional router lift can serve as a great replacement. Another handy accessory in woodworking is a bench dog. House Grail is reader-supported. Every router lift has a specific plunge size. Added tension to the spindle helps reduce vibration and backlash. That is why it is down on the list. Rockler much smaller. What To Look For In Router Lifts WWW17 WOOD magazine WOOD magazine 87K. The Lift usually replaces the standard insert plate in a router table and works with any of the 20+ most known router models. Bosch RA1165 Router Lift - Best Budget Router Lift 4. One of the most critical factors you must consider when getting a router is choosing between plunge and fixed types. 28 Results Filter By Corner Routing Guide Set $39.99 New Flush-Trim Bit 1/4" Shank $16.99 New Flush-Trim Bit 1/2" Shank $24.99 New It improves the stability, control, and adjustability of a standard router. However, the base model doesn't include any featherboards or even a router switch. Anyone looking to get more from their 3-inch router without breaking the bank may want to check out JessEm's Rout-R-Lift II. Learn more. Update Privacy Preferences The aluminum construction is lightweight yet durable, and the single piece motor carriage improves stability. The more complex the installation the more chance there is for error and the more parts you need to purchase, the better the chance they wont be available. If that is indeed the only real difference, I'd choose the Incra due to the Magnalock rings if you have any plans to also go with the Cleansweep. For tables like Kreg and JessEm that have no rabbeted ledge, use the CleanSweep Table Adapter to support the router lift. In general, fixed-base router motors will separate from their base, allowing them to chock into a router lift. Weve chosen six of the most popular router lifts to review for you so you can get some behind the scenes information about how they work. The user can improve the efficacy and productivity of this route lift by fine-tuning the bits' adjustments. Due to the nice lifting housing installed in this product, it can accept different types of medium to small-sized routers such as Porter-cable, bosch, Dewalt, etc. It fits most routers, thats why its our pick for best overall. Fits all Kreg router tables and many competitive brands. Router lifts features the component called rugged base plate which is needed during the routing process for increased stability. The Bosch RA 1165 is an updated router lift replacingthe RA 1164 and serves as the new base for many fixed-base router models. Buildeazy accepts no responsibility for any injury to any person occurring while using or undertaking this project or any other Buildeazy project, either directly or indirectly. Without the router lift, you need to change the bit by accessing the tool from under the table. We hope our review of the best precision router lifts has been helpful. Router lifts eliminate most of the problems router table users experience daily. Before you get a router lift with any of these features, you should check your preference and figure out the one that works best for you. When JessEm invented the router lift back in 1999 they created a whole new woodworking category. With a 2 -inch plunge range, many router lift reviews complimented this model on its consistent high-end router lift production and durability, as well as its 6-step height adjustment system. There truly is a sweet spot. It also includes 3 self-leveling Twist-Lock rings for installing the lift on any table. For many shop owners, the headaches avoided are well worth the cost of a good router lift. Its not bulky and wouldnt take up all the space on an average routing table. This router lift is an economical alternative versus compatible routers that commonly cost US$200 or more, wrote one customer. Incra vs Kreg -- Router Tables Winner Declared!! Pay attention to the instructions and mounting your router is fast and easy., Dimensions: MDF top 16 x 24 feet; router plate 9 x 11 x inches. Bosch 1617/1618 (3.5" Motor Dia.) Many router lifts provide the user with more stability and greater vibration reduction than their current setup. The downside to the JessEm 02310 is that to install it in some tables, you need a specific plastic lift that only JessEm sells at a very high price. These components are known to come with predrilled holes so that users dont have to stress themselves. The ball bearing mechanism allows for smooth movement as the lift up and down. Precise adjustment without backlash . Thomas uses cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Best Budget Router Lift - JessEm Rout-R-Lift II. Down sides are cost of Jessem accessories. Its a little heavier than our top model, but installation is quick and straightforward and results in an accurate lift with easy, precise height adjustment.