Router lifts are an essential tool in the world of woodworking. They are devices that elevate your router above the table surface, making it easier to change bits and adjust heights. This tool is a game-changer for woodworkers, offering a level of control and precision that is hard to achieve with a router alone.

The importance of router lifts in woodworking cannot be overstated. They not only make the job easier but also significantly improve the quality of your work. By allowing precise control over the router’s height, they enable you to make more accurate cuts, resulting in a better finish. Furthermore, they save time and effort, making your woodworking projects more efficient and enjoyable.

Whether you are a professional woodworker or a hobbyist, a router lift can make a significant difference in your work. It is an investment that pays off in the long run, enhancing your productivity and the quality of your work. In this article, we will delve deeper into the world of router lifts, helping you understand their operation, benefits, and factors to consider when buying one.

Our Top Router Lifts Picks

The PORTER-CABLE Dovetail Jig is an essential tool for woodworkers looking to create precise and intricate dovetail joints with ease. This versatile jig includes three templates: 4211 for half-blind, rabbeted half-blind, and sliding dovetails; 4213 for through dovetails and box joints; and 4215 for miniature through and half-blind dovetails, as well as miniature box joints. The inclusion of template alignment lines and router bit depth gauges ensures a quick and accurate setup without the need for complex measurements. Made from durable aluminum, this jig is both lightweight and robust, making it a reliable addition to your woodworking toolkit.

The JessEm Router Lift is a premium router lift designed to enhance the precision and ease of use for your woodworking projects. With a sturdy metal construction, this router lift is built to last and provides exceptional performance. Weighing only 8.8 pounds, it is compact yet powerful. This model is specifically designed for use with popular router models including PC 690/890, BOSCH 1617/1618, DEWALT 610/618/616, and CRAFTSMAN 1754/17540/28190, making it a versatile addition to any workshop. The router lift allows for easy height adjustments, ensuring precise control over your router during operations.

The Incra Mast-R-Lift-II-R is an advanced router lift designed for seamless integration with Rockler tables. Built with precision in mind, this lift allows you to adjust the height of your router bit with ease—no need to reach below the table or remove the router plate. Featuring the exclusive INCRA MagnaLOCK reducing ring system, it ensures instant and perfect ring changes. You can achieve highly accurate, 0.001″ height adjustments from above, all thanks to the lift’s ball bearing mechanism, providing smooth and frictionless operation. The 16TPI direct-drive lift screw mechanism ensures fast and ultra-responsive adjustments, making it an essential tool for precision woodworking.

The Kreg PRS5000 Precision Router Lift is a robust and reliable tool designed to provide woodworkers with precise adjustments for their router tables. It allows for above-the-table adjustments as fine as 1/64″, ensuring highly accurate setup changes. The hard-anodized aluminum router plate resists sagging and scratches, maintaining its durability over time. It’s compatible with 20+ router models, fitting all Kreg router tables and many other brands, making it a versatile choice. Anti-backlash compensation ensures the cutting depth adjustments are precise, making it a premium accessory for any serious woodworker.

The Rockler Pro Lift Router Lift is designed to enhance precision and ease when working with your router table. Featuring a 9.25″ x 11.75″ aluminum plate, it’s compatible with popular brands such as Kreg, Jessum, Woodpecker, and Peachtree. The fine adjustment gear allows you to set the router height to within 0.001″, ensuring precise and efficient adjustments. It’s ideal for 4.2″ diameter routers like the Porter-Cable 7518 and 7519, and additional adapter collars (sold separately) allow compatibility with other router sizes. The Snap-Lock insert ring makes bit changes quick and hassle-free.

Understanding Router Lifts

A router lift is a device that holds a router in place and allows you to adjust its height from above the table. It essentially turns your plunge router into a fixed-base router but with superior height adjustment. The router is mounted upside down in the lift, and a plate on top of the lift provides a surface for your workpiece.

The operation of a router lift is quite straightforward. It uses a mechanism (usually a threaded rod and knob) to raise or lower the router. This allows you to adjust the height of the router bit without having to reach under the table. Some router lifts also have a locking mechanism to secure the router at the desired height.

The benefits of using router lifts in woodworking are manifold. They offer precise control over the router’s height, enabling you to make accurate cuts. They also make bit changes easier and safer, as you don’t have to reach under the table. Furthermore, they save time and effort, making your woodworking projects more efficient.

Factors to Consider When Buying Router Lifts

When buying a router lift, the first thing to consider is its compatibility with your router. Not all lifts are designed to fit all routers, so you need to ensure that the lift you choose can accommodate your router’s model and size. Check the manufacturer’s specifications or consult with a knowledgeable salesperson to find a compatible lift.

Another important factor is ease of use. A good router lift should have a smooth and easy-to-operate height adjustment mechanism. It should also have a reliable locking mechanism to secure the router at the desired height. Some lifts come with additional features like micro-adjustment capabilities or digital readouts, which can make them even easier to use.

Precision and accuracy are crucial in woodworking, and the same applies to router lifts. The lift should allow you to adjust the router’s height with a high degree of precision. Look for lifts with fine adjustment capabilities, as they can provide a higher level of accuracy. Durability and build quality are also important, as you want a lift that can withstand the rigors of regular use. Finally, consider the price and value for money. While high-quality router lifts can be quite expensive, they are usually worth the investment in the long run.

Top Router Lift Brands

There are several leading manufacturers of router lifts, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Some of the top brands include JessEm, Incra, and Kreg. These companies have a reputation for producing high-quality lifts that offer excellent performance and durability.

JessEm is known for its innovative designs and high-quality construction. Their lifts are easy to use and offer a high degree of precision. Incra, on the other hand, is renowned for its precision woodworking tools, and their router lifts are no exception. They offer a range of lifts with advanced features like micro-adjustment capabilities and digital readouts. Kreg is another reputable brand, known for its durable and user-friendly lifts.

When comparing different brands, consider factors like ease of use, precision, durability, and price. Read reviews and consult with other woodworkers to get a better idea of the performance and reliability of different lifts. Remember, the best router lift for you depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Detailed Reviews of Top Router Lifts

When it comes to choosing a router lift, it’s important to consider the features and specifications of different models. Some lifts offer advanced features like micro-adjustment capabilities or digital readouts, while others focus on simplicity and ease of use. Consider your needs and preferences when evaluating these features.

It’s also important to consider the pros and cons of different lifts. No product is perfect, and each lift will have its strengths and weaknesses. For instance, a lift might offer excellent precision but be difficult to operate, or it might be easy to use but lack durability. Weigh these pros and cons carefully to make an informed decision.

User reviews and feedback can provide valuable insights into the performance and reliability of different lifts. Look for reviews from users who have similar needs and preferences as you. Keep in mind, however, that not all reviews are reliable, so use them as one of many sources of information.

How to Install a Router Lift

Installing a router lift is a relatively straightforward process, but it requires care and attention to detail. Start by removing the router from its base and mounting it in the lift. Then, install the lift in the router table, making sure it is level and secure. Finally, adjust the height of the router to the desired level and lock it in place.

While installing a router lift is not particularly difficult, it’s important to take safety precautions. Always unplug the router before installing the lift, and make sure the lift is securely fastened to the table. If you’re not comfortable doing the installation yourself, consider hiring a professional or asking a knowledgeable friend for help.

Once the lift is installed, test it to make sure it operates smoothly and accurately. Make a few test cuts to check the accuracy of the height adjustment and the stability of the lift. If you encounter any problems, consult the lift’s manual or contact the manufacturer for assistance.

Maintenance of Router Lifts

Like any tool, a router lift requires regular maintenance to keep it in good working order. This includes cleaning the lift regularly to remove dust and debris, lubricating the height adjustment mechanism, and checking for wear and tear. If you notice any problems, address them promptly to prevent further damage.

Troubleshooting common issues is also part of maintaining a router lift. If the lift is not operating smoothly or accurately, there could be several possible causes. The lift might be dirty or poorly lubricated, or there could be a problem with the height adjustment mechanism. Consult the lift’s manual or contact the manufacturer for assistance in diagnosing and resolving these issues.

With proper maintenance, a router lift can provide many years of reliable service. Remember, a well-maintained lift not only performs better but also lasts longer, making it a wise investment for any woodworker.

Enhancing Precision in Woodworking with Router Lifts

Router lifts can significantly enhance precision in woodworking. By allowing precise control over the router’s height, they enable you to make more accurate cuts. This can result in a better finish and a higher quality end product.

There are many examples of how router lifts can enhance precision in woodworking. For instance, when making a series of identical cuts, a router lift allows you to set the height once and make all the cuts at exactly the same level. This can result in a more consistent and professional-looking finish.

Another example is when making intricate cuts or patterns. A router lift allows you to adjust the height of the router bit with a high degree of precision, enabling you to make detailed and accurate cuts. This can be particularly useful in tasks like inlay work or dovetail joinery.

Conclusion

In conclusion, router lifts are an invaluable tool in woodworking. They offer a level of control and precision that is hard to achieve with a router alone, making your work easier and more efficient. Whether you are a professional woodworker or a hobbyist, a router lift can significantly enhance the quality of your work.

When choosing a router lift, consider factors like compatibility with your router, ease of use, precision, durability, and price. Remember, the best router lift for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. With the right lift, you can take your woodworking projects to the next level.

So, invest in a router lift and experience the difference it can make in your woodworking. It’s an investment that pays off in the long run, enhancing your productivity and the quality of your work.

FAQ

What is a router lift?
A router lift is a device that holds a router in place and allows you to adjust its height from above the table. It essentially turns your plunge router into a fixed-base router but with superior height adjustment.

Why do I need a router lift?
A router lift offers precise control over the router’s height, enabling you to make accurate cuts. It also makes bit changes easier and safer, and saves time and effort, making your woodworking projects more efficient.

How do I choose a router lift?
When choosing a router lift, consider factors like compatibility with your router, ease of use, precision, durability, and price. Also, consider the features and specifications of different models, and read user reviews and feedback.