Guide Rail Router Base

View demonstration video.

This guide rail router base is exceptionally well made, simple to set up and extremely precise. It has two core functions: the first is for use with a guide rail for precise straight routing and the second is as a standalone router circle cutter. When straight routing the base sits over the raised channel on the guide rail. Two micro-adjustment cams allow you to eliminate any horizontal play between the rail and base to ensure an ultra-smooth movement along the rail. There are a further two micro-adjustment screws to precisely set the vertical level to ensure the base does not tilt at an angle. At the head of the unit is a 180mm diameter plate that accepts industry standard routers. You simply drill the plate to match the holes in the base of your router.

Once positioned the router can travel back and forth on the slide arm, to set your width of cut. The slide arm features laser etched graduations from 0 to 450mm in 1 mm increments and you can lock off the arm at any position before using the brass knurl knob to dial in to your exact measurement. One full rotation of the brass knurl knob moves the arm back or forth by 0.5mm. You can also precisely control the distance of travel by locking off the two Bristol locking levers at the start and finish point of your cut. The front router plate has height adjustment to ensure that the plate will always sit on the workpiece preventing any rocking movement. All the black sliding components are manufactured from a special phenolic which is extremely hard wearing and offers minimal levels of friction to ensure a smooth passage.

To circle cut you simply screw the adaptor plate to your workpiece. The adaptor plate has a circular boss made from steel that locates into one of three holes in the base of the router guide. You set the sliding arm to your desired length, lock off and then rotate the router to create your circular cut. You can circle cut from 320mm to 900mm diameter. Overall, this is a first class, extremely well engineered router base with built in micro adjustment at every stage. If you want to rout precise straight lines in panels or cut precise circles this router base is exceptional. ©