Malcolm wrote:
The 3.25 works very well in a router table, but is comparatively heavy, and it has a lot of "torque steer" (for lack of better words) for hand-held work. I'm asuming the person (sorry, forgot who posted the message) using it is going to use it in a table mount to route bead and coves. It would be perfect for that.

That'd probably be me on the previous posting. The big PC router is a lot to hand hold and not really necessary for most routed work. Comes in real handy as a table installed workhorse due to the soft start, variable speed and bone crushing horsepower. You can even buy the motor unit alone if you're going to slap it into one of the trick lift mechanisms.

For hand held work and 80% of the potential router chores, I'd get the 1.75 HP convertible unit. That way you can plunge as well as run it in a fixed base. There are pros and cons for either base in a router table. Some say the plunging base allows too much movement in the bit for critical alignment on tight work. Others find the fixed base awkward to adjust when set in a table. Ive found that careful setup can be done with both styles. Good finish work has a lot to do with the setup of the finger boards as well as the height and depth of the bit.

Since both bases. I think, have the same plastic plate, it would be easy to find out which one works best for your needs.

I use the beefy router becuse I have to produce all types of finished goods with a wide array of bits from small to large diameter. Sometimes the router is running all day for several days in a row. I've found the heavier motor holds up better in those conditions.

If your needs are not that cranking, I'd get the package deal with the dual bases and be very content.

Chris Ostlind