Milwaukee 3-1/2 Max HP Fixed-Base Production Router

I have this router dedicated to a router table with a router lift. I haven’t put much time on it yet, but so far this is an excellent router. The soft start work smoothly and the variable speed works as expected. This router is much quieter than my much older and less powerful Porter Cable 690.

Item permanently attached to a router table with a Incra lift. Will be used as both a shaper and router. Couldn’t ask for a better tool for this application.

IT IS A WORK HORSE, TOUGH AND STURDY. IT WILL DO WHAT WAS BILT FOR.

Powerful routerInstalled in a router bench setup

It kicks butter!!!!!!!!!

The best router I’ve owned over the last 30 years. I just wore out a 30 year old fixed based router recently. My next router will again be a fixed base for hand held use in my shop for cutting dovetails. Thanks Milwaukee..

This is a very good router but Milwaukee does not include a 1/4″ collets. According to the specs both collets were included. You will have to go through Home Depot to get a 1/4″ collet if you want one. Home Depot has been very cooperative in resolving this short coming. This is my first and last Milwaukee tool purchase. There are other manufacturers out their that supply both collets when you purchase their routers. I wish Home Depot would have had other 3 1/2 hp router to choose from. I know Milwaukee is not the only manufacturer that makes 3 1/2 hp routers.

I was in need of a more powerful machine so I picked this beast up. I have it attached to a router lift on my table. It is an excellent machine and I couldn’t be happier. Very powerful and handles whatever I throw at it. I had an issue with the collet and Milwaukee was contacted. I cannot say enough about how they helped. I wouldn’t hesitate to purchase any of the Milwaukee line of tools.

I purchased this tool from Home Depot online. After moderate use the switch failed in one year. I rarely even use the switch because I have it mounted in table with external switch. After disassembly I could see that the unsealed switch was packed with dust! Give me a break! Who specified an unsealed switch in a router? I always buy Milwaukee when I can, but this experience has my questioning that habit.

I mounted the Milwaukee 3.5 Hp motor to an Incra Master-Lift-II and have used it to swing a 3-1/2 inch raised panel bit. It cut the cherry panel with ease. I chose the Milwaukee over its main competitor (PC) due to its lower noise level. The motor is smooth and appears extremely well built. The variable speed control works great. I have not used the depth adjustment built into the Milwaukee because it is mounted on an Incra Lift so I cant comment on it. This is a very heavy router made for production. For occasional hand routing jobs it might be a bit much, but it is outstanding for table use. It puts a smile on my face every time I use it!