Hitachi Router Review, The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly

[@marcomuniz5701]

Just an update to this well made review. I just purchased the Metabo HPT(New Hitachi) same model. The two problems that you talked about at the end of the video have been fixed. The last thing you talked about the lock, I actually like.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Marco, great news. Thanks for taking the time to get back to me.

[@chuckmiller5763]

I keep plastic boxes for certain tools, like a rotor hammer and the bits, jig saw and blades, and thats about it. I purchased this same router about 12 years ago, it is still awesome, it is what turned me on to Hitachi tools. Now I try to buy all Hitachi. I also own the big Hitachi 3 1/2 HP plunge router. Its great. I would say this is a fluke with your router, I bought it originally to turn huge cabinet door panel bits, it turned them like they were not even in the router. Hitachi has that continuous speed control so it wont slow down when you start to cut like most routers do.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Chuck, I agree that I must have gotten just a bad tool this time around. I would have just exchanged it and tried again but that was the only one they had it stock. I really like the 3 1/2 HP Hitachi router that is in my router table. Those plastic boxes take up a lot of room but they sure are nice for keeping the tools and accessories together. Thanks for taking the time to watch and comment.

[@fxp2741]

I often repurpose my plastic tool boxes for other tools I want to keep in them. I use a box cutter and hand saw to take out enough of the form fitting insert for the new tool to fit. My problem is they are too big, not efficient to store items in them with all the extra room. A little handiwork and you can get two tools or accessories in them. I have an Hitachi M12VC fixed base in my router table, love it.

[@ronaldmcdonald2456]

I get so tired of products that are "half baked!" Which forces me to trot out that other well worn adage, "You pays your money, and you takes your chances." It shouldn't have to be that way. Money and time are much too precious. We are also faced with the hard truth that too many companies are out to make a buck and are constantly testing the limits of what they can get away with. Thanks for your thorough and honest review.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Ronald, I understand what you are saying and that seems to be the mindset today. When I bought this particular router I was going a lot by the success and performance of the Hitachi router that I have had for years in my router table. The two sure did compare, almost like from two different companies. Thanks so much for watching and for your input.

[@WKYanks]

I wish I would have seen your video sooner. I have this one and haven't even tried the plunging part. I've used the router many times and am very satisfied. Thanks

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Dale, I would be very interested to hear how well the plunge operation works. I wonder if I just got a bad base. Either way it wasn't for me. Thanks for watching and for the comment.

[@Paradigm816]

Solid review. Appreciate the experience in comparing other routers instead of it being the only router you've ever touched. Insightful!

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Chris, Thanks for tuning in and I am glad it was helpful to you. I appreciate your comment.

[@adamcopper-localgoogleguide]

Hi Paul, Thanks very much for the nice help with this router. I am brand new to routing, and just bought my first router on sale for 99$ at a 60% off at Lowes so it was only $99 bucks for almost the identical version called the Mebabo. Your video was the first in my understanding what I purchased. I am really having lots of difficulty getting right height and with the plunge base to come back to the same place each time. I am slowly learning but its very hard learning through KZbin videos. However I want you to to know I appreciate your explanations of what some of the components were....cause I had no idea what goes where and what I actually have. This is a journey and thanks for helping me along on it!

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Adam, Mebabo bought out Hitachi a while back so it is in fact the same router with just different badging on it. Good luck in your new venture, routing can be a very rewarding hobby. There is lots of good information out there so keep checking. I really appreciate your taking the time to watch and for the great comment.

[@Pooky1973]

Actually it's the other way around. Hitachi purchased Metabo

[@tsealfred]

Hi Paul, I just picked up a KM12VC. I think the problem which you have is not about the router design. When you insert the router into the plunge base, the black line should line up to the triangle mark on the right side. It is shown in the manual. That's why the adjusting knob is touching the housing.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Alfred, thanks for the information. I appreciate your watching and for leaving the comment.

[@carloszenteno]

Thanks for the review and opening the box. I bought this router and it is great so far. The plunge hits just barely the chip screen, not a big problem. It does not have the sticking problem either. I but an extra template adapter online for cheap. The only thing that I have not figured out is, what are those two screw included for. Thanks again.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Carlos, Thanks for the post. I am glad you are having better luck than I did with the router and bases. My guess would be that the two screws might be go hold the parts for the edge guide into the base. I really can't remember but that would be my guess. Thanks again for watching and the post.

[@m3rth]

Not sure if this has been mentioned in the comments, but the motor wasn’t aligned in the plunge housing properly. There’s a small arrow on the plunge base that is supposed to line up with the black line on the motor. The plunge base retracts fine if you do that.

[@m3rth]

It’s also possible this was a change in a future version of the router seeing as how this is a 3 year old video. I’ve got the version of this router after power tools brand was renamed to Metabo, but otherwise this all looks exactly the same as what I’ve got right now.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Matthew, I think you might be wrong about the change in design. I tried anyway I could to make things operate smoothly with no luck. I probably got a bad one or like you suggested....pre-redesign. I appreciate your taking the time to watch and comment.

[@m3rth]

paulsmessyworkshop bummer! Shame it didn’t work out for you, I used mine for the first time recently and it worked well for me. Take care!

[@khogg3581]

As I was preparing to make a trip to the big box store (blue colored) the other day, I browsed their website to see what items on my list they had available. Since I’d been looking to buy a router I checked out their selection. This Hitachi KM12VC Combo was listed for $180, which sparked my interest. As I was researching the router, I found your review video. It seemed to me like a decent product, but I wasn’t quite sold on it. I’ve read complaints about many brands having sticky plunging issues like what you experienced. While I was at the store I figured I’d have a look at the router, and found it was on clearance for $90. I decided that was plenty of a discount to take one home and give it a go. The plunger base in my combo kit knocks against the dust shield too; like yours. Although, it plunges and retracts smoothly. I’m willing to deal with a minor design flaw like the dust shield being off a millimeter or two. I appreciate the plastic cases for power tools. My workshop shares space in a one-car garage with a Subaru Forrester, four bicycles, gardening tools and supplies, a secondary food pantry, and Christmas decorations; among other things. The plastic cases are very useful for stacking and organizing in such limited quarters; better than lumpy soft cases. Thanks for the thorough unboxing review. It was quite useful.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

K Hogg, I am glad that my video was of some help to you. Hope you have good luck with your router, like I said in my video the Hitachi M12V that I have in my router table has performed flawlessly for 25+ years. Maybe there is a way you can fix the knocking of the dust shield so that it works correctly. Thanks for letting me know about your experience with this tool. Good luck and happy woodworking. Thanks for watching and for commenting.

[@ikahugu]

Found a similar deal at the big blue box store but haven't picked it up. Hopefully, it doesn't have the same flaw

[@kevintrahan3367]

2 days ago i purchased this one at ol blue and was on sale for 89 dollars

[@Starik905]

a very useful video I handed over my router did not even open a cow yesterday bought Today I got up Thanks for this video I bought a browser and looked at the video first and after such defects were found I didn’t even have it

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Veniamin Slash, thank you so much for taking the time to watch my video and also for taking the time to leave a comment.

[@steverobinson8123]

For all of you having collet problems, I found that when you loosen the collet, it appears (big emhasis on this word!) to be loose when in fact, it is not. Turn the nut a couple of more turns with the wrench and it will be loose. The bits are then very easily removeable.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Steve, Thanks for the good information. Handy hint.

[@joealvarez4240]

This video not sponsored by Hitachi--and I'm very grateful! Thanks, Paul. Nice video.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Joe, I have only had a couple of videos that were sponsored and those I made very clear at the beginning. I am glad you were happy with my Hitachi video and found it useful. I have had a lot of mixed comments about that video ranging from I should have broken it in longer to I should have done some modifications to it. I felt it should have performed correctly out of the box and was disappointed that it didn't. I sure appreciate your taking the time to watch my show and for leaving the comment. Sorry it took me so long to get this reply to you.

[@slide6Y]

I'm a little late here, to help, but it appears in the video, You placed the router in the plung base slightly incorrect. As the router sits in the plung base, the bushing caps are supposed to be accessible without having to remove the router from the base. In your video, you have the router placed so that the router bushing caps are in line with and contacting the limiting stop. The power cord is not supposed to project straight out the back, but more so at a 45° angle. There is an arrow marker that is supposed to line up with the index line on the motor housing, which is also illustrated on the first page in the instructions manual. If the router is placed into the plung base correctly, there is no binding. This is the only "metabo" piece of equipment I own. I generally have no biases with brands/manufacturers, so my tool belt is pretty diverse. However, this is one of my favorite power tools.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

A???, Thanks for your input. If I remember correctly (it has been awhile) it would only go together one way. I could be wrong but like a said it has been awhile. I appreciate your taking the time to watch and comment.

[@JCC1256]

I just purchased this exact setup and it works very well, the plunge moves freely and the front shield adjusted to clear the face of router. It's a shame the one you purchased didn't do the product justice, I believe you purchased a lemon.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

John, there is a good chance that you are right. Like I said in the video I had always had good luck with Hitachi products in the past. I can only hope the one I got was the odd one in the bunch. Thanks for taking the time to watch and comment on the video.

[@ronniekotler9265]

I just bought this km12ve router at a garage sale for $60.00. It isn't the best but worth what I pay d for it. Thank you for the review.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Ronnie, That seems like a good buy. Hope it serves you well. Thanks for taking the time to watch and comment.

[@ericwilliams538]

Thank you for posting. I was getting ready to pull the trigger on one of these from the local pawn shop. 60 bucks isn't bad, but, I want something that's not so problematic so to speak.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Eric, glad you found my video useful. Thanks for taking the time to watch and comment.

[@MattA42]

I have to say I got this on sale for $89 for the same kit and for the price I am not disappointed. Maybe if I had paid full retail ($179) I would be disappointed but this has worked great for me, although I dont use the plunge feature much.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Matt. Glad my video was some help. I have often wondered if I just got a bad model. You got a great buy on yours, much better than I did. Thanks for watching and the comment.

[@ruzologic7712]

I gave a Dewalt Drill as a gift and got this as a gift back. After cleaning it and lubing it I thought I was crazy because it dose exactly what you show your doing? I may order the fixed base to use it with but the plunge is a pain to set because of the not unlocking lever while trying to set the ring on the threaded all thread and having to contend with the locking or catching in place and busting loose of the plunge slide. It really turned me off to this plunge setup.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Ruzo, I can completely understand your frustration with this router. Using it as a fixed base router isn't a bad idea because the motor seems plenty powerful. Good luck and thanks for watching and your comment.

[@foxwoodworking8759]

Nice review. The plunge not being smooth and the plastic dust shroud rubbing the housing would be enough for me to return it. If they overlooked such basic things, what else did they overlook?

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

foxwoodworking8759, exactly right. Thanks for watching

[@steverobinson8123]

Good review....sort of.....I have the identical router set and don't have any of the problems that you illustrate. Too bad you got one with this....mine is great! A little lubrication on the guides and the plunge is very slick and easy! I wish it had a sawdust evacuation port. That would have made it a 10!

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Steve, I am glad you had better luck with your router than I did. I was really disappointed because I had always had good luck with Hitachi tools in the past. Thanks for the information and for taking the time to comment.

[@mattg8785]

I've had the same router a few years now and been dealing with the same sticking issue you noted with the plunge base. I've also run into the collet issue someone else commented on. Going to try tearing apart and lubricating like someone suggested to address the sticking. With the collet, bits get stuck and the collet nut will unscrew completely with the collet still tightly gripping the bit. Seems to happen more with the 1/4" collet. I've learned to immediately remove bits after use, but still occasionally have to do some careful work tapping, prying, and cursing to remove them. Otherwise it's worked fine I guess, though I don't have much basis for comparison.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Matt, great review on your part and informative enough to know that the problems aren't related to just the occasional tool. This is a shame because other Hitachi tools, including routers, have been fantastic. I received many ideas on how I could have repaired or fixed the router that I bought however I don't feel I should have to fix a tool as soon as I take it out of the box. As far as your bits sticking in the collet, is there any chance that in the past a bit might have spun in the collet creating a ridge or damage spot inside the collet? If so, maybe you could clean it up to take care of the problem. Thanks for watching my video and the great comment.

[@fredparsons5134]

Thanks Paul. I just bought this router before seeing your review. I may not have bought it but it does seem to be a nice router. I was looking for one that was quite and this is not noisy at all. I haven't had a problem with the plunger but the shield can be an annoyance. I'm not up to speed on using the different inserts for those type of bits but look forward to learning some new stuff. Thanks for taking the time to do the video review.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Fred, Thanks so much for watching my video and taking the time to comment. I am glad you are having better luck with the plunge base than I did. Hope you get many years of dependable service from it. Thanks again for tuning in.

[@mattk1737]

You have the router incorrectly inserted in the plunge base, that's why the motor brush access is hitting the stanchion. On the older versions there is an offset mark on the top of the base to align the motor line/arrow with. I can't make it out on your video, so maybe the pencil pushers forgot to put it on this new version.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Matthew, thanks so much for your comment. Unless I was doing something wrong, which is entirely possible, there was only one way to insert the router into the plunge base. Since I have returned it I can't be 100% sure of that. I appreciate your taking the time to watch and comment.

[@mattk1737]

@@paulsmessyworkshop Basically it just needs to be rotated 45° counterclockwise as viewed from above. It's a workhorse of a router. The biggest issue has always been the collet - poor design that jams upon removal as the interference between the nut and the collet is too little, allowing the nut to pop off the collet instead of pulling it out.

[@bobcameron2566]

Hitachi must have watched your review! I just unboxed my Metabo (Hitachi's new brand name) and the plunge is reasonably smooth and the plastic shield does not make contact with the plunge base. It does take more force to plunge but I presume that either I will become use to it. I agree - the box is a waste. Put it in a bag or just ship in a cardboard box. But it is a nice router and at a good price. (Literally $100 dollars cheaper than the "name" brands)

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Bob, LOL, I hope that Metabo (Hitachi) got the message. It is a nice router just needed some tweaking. Thanks for the nice reply.

[@jtbmetaldesigns]

I appreciate this review. I must say this Hitachi router set does have a good price point. Also, I have a Hitachi circular saw that I’ve had for years and I have cut wood, laminate, cast/extruded acrylic, and even aluminum plate with it! No problems thus far. To be honest, the comparable Bosch set is only $199 at Lowe’s and I might just go with that. I feel Hitachi is OK for non complicated tools but routers need more precision. I can only recommend Bosch, DeWalt or Festool for routers.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

jtbmetaldesigns, I agree with you completely, the price of the Hitachi was a strong selling point. I have a Hitachi M12V router in my router table and have been completely satisfied with it. Bosch makes great tools and for a few dollars more than the Hitachi set up overall it is probably a better buy. I appreciate your taking the time to watch and comment.

[@sidneyl7059]

Being new to using routers, this review was very informative. Learned a lot of new stuff about this router (which I just bought). Considering I bought it for 45% off regular price, I'll be keeping mine, but will look into the issues you mention. Hoping the sticking won't occur with mine since I know that will be an issue.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Sidney, glad you liked the video. I hope you have good luck with the router. I appreciate your watching and taking the time to comment.

[@sidneyl7059]

I don't have as much of stick, but I do have the hitting of the guard plate. I believe the spring is way too strong and pops up quick which requires more control of the router if needing to lift. (lots of practice required) Considering I purchased this 3 years later than your model, looks like they addressed the sticking issue. Likely I'm just going to power off and then lift to reduce chance of major damage.

[@jimjackson9381]

You should check out the Rigid line of power handtools with their lifetime guarantee it makes them a pretty good buy and they're a great Tool. All Rigid power tools are warranted for life if they are battery-operated or electric

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Jim, thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. I agree that the Rigid line of power tools are very good, in fact, many of my tools are the Rigid brand. When I first started looking for a plunge router I looked at Rigid but they must not sell anything larger than a palm router anymore. I know they used to sell a fixed/plunge router kit but I couldn't find it. It sure is hard to beat their service agreement as it also covers batteries on their cordless tools. Thanks again for the comment.

[@kennethcolbert2921]

I have this router and I love it. And for the case I love it as well. They don't make this one anymore with the Hitachi name on it.

[@michaeldonaldson8075]

The sticking seems to be a problem, a lot of reviewers seem to point that out. I haven't had a problem with mine, so far, but I also don't use the plunge base that often. I saw a review on another channel talking about the sticking before I bought it, so I was fully aware it could be a problem but maybe Hitachi cleaned up their quality control because mine lowers and raises smoothly with no binding. I also do not have the plastic shield problem others have mentioned, but an easy fix to it is to use a heat gun to warm the plastic at the screws and bend it out a hair. When working with harder woods (Iroko, Teak, Mahogany) using carbide tipped bits, it does seem to bog down a bit where my old bosch would power right through. However on Walnut, Oak, Cedar, Purple Heart, Pine, Poplar, etc. it seems to work just fine.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Michael, I am glad you have had much better luck with your Hitachi Router than I did. I must have gotten the one that was built last thing on a Friday, LOL Happy woodworking

[@andyfoster9542]

Michael Donaldson the the the

[@Sevenator69]

The plastic shield does make contact, but there is an index mark on the plunge base to the right of the Hitachi badge. If you line up the line in the center of the motor with that mark, the plunge adjustment doesn't touch the top of the motor on the way down or back up. I got a really good deal on one of these brand new and wanted folks to know that while the plastic shield is a problem, the adjustment handle isn't if the motor is properly indexed in the plunge base. No, I don't work for Hitachi. 8D

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Sevenator69, I wish I could have had that good of luck with the router I purchased. Like I said in the video, in the past I have had real good luck with Hitachi products. Off camera I tried many things to get this particular router to perform correctly but had no luck. I am glad that you were able to correct the problem with the router that you purchased. I appreciate you letting me know what you did to correct the problem, I am sure it will help other viewer too. Thanks for taking the time to watch and to leave such a great comment.

[@Sevenator69]

I understand. I didn't see your review until after I had bought mine, so it was an "OH NO!" moment. Got a really good deal on it, so I wanted to help out other folks if I could, because I suspect these things are going to be able to be had for a good price because of the problems some have had. Thanks for your reviews and your channel, by the way! :)

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Sevenator69, that is what this community is all about. Helping others. I appreciate your letting viewers know of your success with the Hitachi router. Since you have corrected the problem you should have a great tool that should last a long time. Thanks for the kind words regarding my channel.

[@SadalDay]

hi paul what did you exchange it for? im thinking about porter cable or bosch

[@sarg6494]

So glad I read your comment. Just purchased this the other day. Did what you described. Lined up the marks and the brand new motor in the plunge housing works like butter. There is no binding in either down or up direction. Smooth as silk.

[@dennisgoodson6825]

Thanks Paul. A very helpful review! Very good points, think I'll pass on the Hitachi plunge base router. Looks like it could be a real pain.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Dennis, thanks for watching. Hopefully this problem will eventually be corrected by Hitachi, I hope so anyway because I usually like their tools. Thanks for the comment.

[@JayBuccola]

Got the Metabo version on clearance at lowes for $60. Haven't used it a year later, but I wasn't passing the sale.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

James, can't say as I blame you there. That was a great price. Good luck when you finally do use it...lol. Thanks for watching and for the comment.

[@JayBuccola]

@@paulsmessyworkshop just snagged a tool only clearance Metabo impact driver for $37.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

James, another great deal. No deals like that around me, darn....

[@82camino96]

I completely appreciate and agree with your review and opinion points... I have been very close to buying a Hitachi product three times. Miter saw, router, table saw, etc... I don't know why my brain keeps tempting me to try the brand but every time so far, I soon find out that there are more pathetic design flaws than there are positives. Thankfully I've stopped myself before buying each time. It kinda seems like most brands of tools have this same problem, but especially with Hitachi. They keep putting out these products that have a facade of being a home run for features vs price, yet even for saving 50-100$, they still completely fail at a decent product. It gets agonizing trying to buy anything when putting together a power tool collection and employees don't seem to have even the very SLIGHTEST clue as to anything about any of it. In fact, I was getting ready to go buy this router tomorrow because of the power, the dual bases, the sharp look it has and because it's on sale for 159.99$ right now. Glad I looked it up. I get so tired of returning two, three and four hundred dollar items every other time I buy something. They all have a complete deal breaker or two once you get them home... About the moulded cases, not only are they a puzzle to get the tools into and you can't put anything else in them (like my Dremel 4000 rotary tool) and the accessories that do come with it just shake all over the inside of the case. You open it up and the bits are all over the place flopping around. On top of it all, they never fit on a shelf where you want it to be it seems. I have been buying up inexpensive tool bags by Husky, AWP and Kobalt and replacing any hard case with those. Ten to twenty bucks or so and you have a durable zip up bag to throw the tool in, with accessories, and you can squeeze them into shelf spaces much easier. Or your car/truck... I think I might just get Bosch's version of this router. I already bought the RA1771 table and have a cheap router already. I really hope I don't learn that even the blue, gray and red brand is garbage as well because I am really starting to think that nobody makes an upper/middle grade tool that is worth a damn. You have to double or triple the price point to buy a Festering Stool or the like which also isn't worth it for the prices anyway. For a regular joe who has more than a few products to be purchased that is. Take care fellas and thank you for the real world review!

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Steven, I appreciate your in-depth comment. Believe me I was not bashing the entire line of Hitachi tools, just the one I reviewed. I have a Hitachi M12V router in my router table and it has performed flawlessly for many years. That is quite a good idea of buying after market tool bags to store your stuff in, makes more sense than those blow-molded cases. I agree with your comment regarding Festering Stool tools. I do not own any of that brand nor do I ever intend to. First they are WAY out of my price range and besides that having to use proprietary blades and such just turns me off. Thanks for taking the time to watch and comment.

[@82camino96]

Hahaha, yeah I was thinking that I was coming off very negative in that comment. I am actually very much enjoying this hobby. Loving it. I just have gone through 3 miter saws in the last 3 weeks that all had either warped fences, or gritty sliders, and now with my current specimen there is awful blade wobble when it gets into the cut and so I have become extremely discouraged lately. I shouldn't be bashing any company especially since I haven't owned a green product. I have noticed that the display model Hitachi miters have been either worn out or possibly just bad specimens. I won't give up hope though. Have a great Christmas/holiday and a happy new year!

[@keithmcauslan943]

I have this setup, after purchasing it I made a Router table for this router. I would consider getting another one. But curiously Did you think about mounting this one as your Table router an use the other one as a Plunge router? I think you said at the beginning it was much larger though.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Keith, your last comment was right on. The router I have in my table is the Hitachi M12V. It is great in the table but it is way to large for me to use as a separate plunge router....at least I think so. The one you bought is a good mix between using it in a router table or using it hand held. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.

[@partsdave8943]

So what brand/model did you end up purchasing, that you are happy with?

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Parts Dave, I have still put off adding another router to my workshop. Thanks for watching and for the comment.

[@jburch8583]

Well I hope that metabo has fixed that plunge problem as I just watched your video after purchasing said model at big box brand new for get this....$17.06. Replacing my old Bosch as it's not soft start or variable speed. Have a great day sir.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

J Burch, great deal. Coupons or sale? Either way good luck with your new router. Thanks for taking the time to watch and comment.

[@jburch8583]

@@paulsmessyworkshop closeout deal. Thank you do you have a favorite commercial or plans you recommend for a router table? I'm open to looking at full size or bench top. I'm a pretty fair carpenter, but I'm a noob woodworker, so recommendations from pros are most welcome. Thanks again

[@telosfd]

Yeah, the tool. I have the old one Hitachi M8V made in Ireland,. So in the point 11:43 some times after work passing wet cotton with white spirit on two axis, but never lubricant.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

telosfd, I find that the older Hitachi routers are great. My M12V is still going strong after probably 15 years of use. Thanks for your reply, suggestion, and for watching.

[@scottsena6760]

Hitachi seems to be a mixed bag of great value and intent (and some QC issues). Because of having used their job site table saw and large sliding chopsaw....they were impressive and smooth, can’t sell them “as a brand” down the river...... “Did you watch Paul’s respectful review Hitachi!” Great review that’s well thought out Paul.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Scott, Thanks for the great comment. I have by no means lost faith in Hitachi as a brand, just as you mentioned, feel that more effort needs to be put toward quality control. I appreciate your taking the time to watch my video.

[@ikahugu]

Thank you for the review Paul

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

munduwahinya, glad the video was helpful to you. Thanks for taking the time to watch and comment.

[@TheLemonadedrinker]

Take it back..you got a friday afternoon one. Bad luck, but a good review!

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

TheLemonadedrinker, I returned it the next day. It was the only one they had in stock so I couldn't replace it with another to see if it was just a fluke. Thanks for your taking the time to watch and for your comment.

[@christopherwhite7909]

Will this Hitachi work well if I build a router table for the tool?

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Christopher, It would probably work a lot better since you are not continually having the plunge base going up and down. You could even use it in a router table with the fixed base. Good luck and thanks for watching.

[@SteveFrenchWoodNStuff]

That's a shame. Did you end up buying another router? I agree with you about those plastic cases; I hate them. I've had some that once the tool is out it becomes a challenging puzzle to figure out how to get them to fit again. I once acquired an old DeWalt cordless drill that was nearly impossible to get back into the case. After a couple years of fighting with it I finally threw it in the trash and have tossed most of my cases ever since!

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Steve, I should follow your lead and toss my plastic cases in the recycle bin, better something else get made out of them. 🙂 What I ended up doing was to buy a plunge base for an older Porter Cable 690 router that I have. Thanks for tuning in and taking the time to leave a comment. Paul

[@miskatoniclibraryreference3002]

while the price point is higher festool has some very nice plunge routers. Good review also!

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Ordo, thanks for the information. I agree that Festool makes some nice stuff but for a hobby workshop they are out of my price range. Thanks for tuning in.

[@emorywilliamson7085]

How in the world do you change the 1/2" collet to the 1/4" supplied?

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Emory, if I remember correctly it is just a matter of unscrewing the 1/2" collet and replacing it with the 1/4" collet. I can't remember if it uses the same nut but if it does you just remove the old collet from the nut and replace it with the new one. Let me know if this isn't what you are asking. Thanks for tuning in and for your question.

[@m3rth]

Mine got stuck in there (the 1/2”). Had to finagle it out of there.

[@zhiweian3387]

This is on sale at Lowes from today. Only $89.50.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Zhiwei, I had heard that. I wonder if they are going to quit selling it? If you are looking for a router that is a good price. Thanks for the information and for taking the time to watch.

[@zhiweian3387]

Thanks for your video. I m only a hobbiest and beginner. The price is so attractive so I order it today. It has been shipped. Hopefully no issue in your video.

[@DrD6452]

I have that exact router and it moves up and down smooth as silk. I'd say yours must be slightly bent out of shape. My chip guard doesn't touch when it is plunged down and the fine adjustment rod is perfectly straight and solid. Mine doesn't get hung up or stuck at any point in the up and down plunge movement. I can't remember how old mine is. I'd say 15+ years old. That being said my favorite router ever was a Porter Cable screw based one my carpentry school had back in 1992. I can't remember the model but it was a beast and nothing slowed it down.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

DrD6452, You must have gotten one of the good ones. If the one I had would have worked that good I would have been a happy customer. My previous experience with Hitachi has always been positive. I might have exchanged it but the one I got was the last one in stock. Thanks so much for watching and for your comment.

[@opasworkshop8373]

nice review Paul. I think you'll find checking out the Bosch plunge router will be more to your liking. in my thinking the Chinese are getting more into quantity than quality.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Opa, thanks for the input. I will add Bosch on my to my list of routers to check out. Thanks for taking the time to watch and comment.

[@adirondackjim5678]

I wonder if the plunge would behave differently with the router inserted. And why didnt you test the router with actual cuts. You didnt review what the router actually does. I dont make recommendations before i actually test tools in real applications. I think this is misleading.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Jim, If you watched the entire video you would have seen that at 10:01 I had the router installed in the plunge base and went on to explain the problems with it. I did not show making any cuts because I didn't feel safe with the operation of the plunge and without the plunge feature I wasn't interested in the router. I did not recommend this tool so I don't feel that there was a need to show it's use. There was no way I felt comfortable using this tool. I was honest about the downfalls of the tool and why I was returning it. If you feel that was misleading I sure don't understand why. I appreciate your comments and hope you understand more why I made the video the way I did. Thanks for watching and happy woodworking.

[@sajidrafique375]

Today I just received the same router but named Metabo from eBay... I have not even removed it from bags ...May be i should return it.

[@windsor64ful]

Did you return it? I’m looking at the same. Look identical maybe bought out hitachi 🤷🏼‍♂️

[@sajidrafique375]

@@windsor64ful I could not because the seller had no return policy ... I stuck it under a table and made a router table .. Its not so bad after all ..

[@jasonrichelhoff4249]

Hi Paul You good job video You thank video 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Jason, glad you enjoyed the video and found it useful. Thanks for tuning in and for the comment.

[@melissabarron1574]

Thank you!

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Melissa, glad you found this video helpful. I tried to be as honest about my findings. Thanks for taking the time to watch and comment.

[@crushed_edge_]

A good, honest review. Thanks.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Taylor, thanks for taking the time to view and comment. I appreciate your input.

[@MrGabrism]

Thanks for the review

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

M G, Thanks for taking the time to tune in and also to leave a comment. Hope the review helped.

[@49mfhammer]

Mine has neither of the problems mentioned. Oh well!

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Mark, that is interesting. I must have gotten one that made it past inspection. Thanks for taking the time to watch and comment.

[@1990notch]

I've looked at this set as I like Hitachi but was not impressed with it. I've been looking at a similar set by Bosch, I'm going it will go on sale.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

1990notch, I agree that Bosch makes a great router set. I also like DeWalt. In the past I had good luck with a Hitachi router but was really disappointed with the one I tested. Thanks so much for watching and for leaving the comment. Happy woodworking...

[@thedp]

you need to break in the plunge mount.after some use its fine. sending it back after one try was poor. I have been running this set up for 10 years and its been ok. the only real problem I've had with it is the speed control knob broke off the pot on the control unit. its a really dumb setup. maybe I'll look for a new knob as replacement part if I can get the original shaft out, other wise it runs at med speed which is fine 90% of the time for me. the real problem with this router is lack of an OTS edge guide. I adapted a porter cable guide. the vaccum attachement is $40 !! and should be included. its about 50% effective at getting chips with a big vac which is ok.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Steve, thanks for input. You may be right about not giving the plunge base long enough to break in. I initially did not like the way the plunge base operated or felt so that pretty much soured my opinion ot the tool. I think that it should have been smooth right out of the box. I sure appreciate your taking the time to watch my video and to take the time to leave your helpful comment. Sorry it took me a little time to get back to you but I have been running a little bit behind.

[@TJSWOODWORKINGSHOP]

It's all good my friend it's better to get another one maybe something else you had in mind sir and good luck and God Bless :)

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

TJ, thanks for tuning in. There are lots of other brands on the market.

[@TJSWOODWORKINGSHOP]

Yes Sir good luck my friend :)

[@javierramirez8339]

worst plunge base router, bosh are bulky , makita too expensive, what is the best for the money?I need a plunge router

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Javier, Sorry, I can't recommend a good router for you. I ended up buying a plunge base for a PC690 that I had in my shop. Not the cheapest or the best way to go but I did get what I needed. Good luck in your search.

[@guayabito6946]

This review probably costs Hitachi millions and it is probably the reason why they sell their router very cheap. I just got mine for $99 (including the plunge adapter), lets see how it goes.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

latengocomoburro, LOL, I hardly think my little channel had that much of an impact on Hitachi. You sure got a great deal on your router, I hope you have really good luck with it. I appreciate your taking the tie to watch and comment.

[@guayabito6946]

@@paulsmessyworkshop It comes up first when you search for reviews on the router every time. Not blaming you of anything or saying anything negative, it is just an observation. The router comes on sale every so often but I had held from buying it for a long time because of this review, but since the one I want its never on sale I gave up and bought it.

[@guayabito6946]

@@paulsmessyworkshop A quick update I just received the router and tried the plunge adapter and it does get stuck BIG TIME.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Bummer, guess it is a common problem. Sorry for your experience.

[@guayabito6946]

@@paulsmessyworkshop Your review is from 2017. You would think they would have fixed it by now, but no, they rather sell it cheap and destroy the company's image. Absurd.

[@markjarman7819]

I bet you have a old hitachi router in that table. The newer ones are cheap build quality. Not now made in Japan I’m guessing

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Mark, you are absolutely right. The older Hitachi routers were great. Thanks for watching.

[@scottydntno]

Mine does the same damn thing, but too late to return it :-( shoulda went Dewalt

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Kleo 84, sorry to hear that you had the same problems. Luckily I found the problem with mine right away and was able to return it. Thanks for the taking the time to watch and comment.

[@robsonf6683]

That's the issue today, name brands that were made is USA or Germany or Japan are now all made by cheap Chinese labor. Buy Festool, very expensive, but quality at it's best

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Amy, believe it or not there are some very well made tools imported from China. It depends on how involved the company is in the quality control and how stringent they are to the guidelines they put forth in manufacturing. I agree that Festool makes good tools but I feel they are far too expensive for the hobbyist woodworker. I will stick with my Chinese made tools and try to keep an eye on the quality. I appreciate your taking the time to watch and comment.

[@ronaldgerhold5215]

you may have gotten a dropped one. try another one in the store and see if they do the same thing

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Ronald, you never know, that is sure a possibility. Thanks for taking the time to watch and for the comment.

[@naughtyskweet6]

Ronald Gerhold mine did it too. Eventually loosens up and haven't had any issues with it. Love the router overall though

[@absolutetruth7218]

My plunge base works great

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Absolute truth, Thanks for taking the time to comment. I am happy that you have had good luck with your Hitachi Plunge Router. I have heard from quite a few users that have had good luck with theirs and also those that have not had as good as luck. I guess it is sort of crap shoot as to whether you get a good one or not. Thanks for watching.

[@waldvogelreview7755]

Looks like the motor need to be put farther into the plunge base so it wont stick. It shouldnt catch it at all then.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Waldvoge, thanks for the input. I did in fact check to see how smooth the base worked without the router in it. It hung up even without the motor in it. Thanks for watching and leaving the comment.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Well what a shame. I thought that the router set had some promise for you until you started having problems with the plastic shield and then the plunge function of the set. I had to laugh out loud when you set that reading instructions was against most woodworker's codes. I think it may be a guy thing, not just a woodworker thing. Good luck on getting a new router Paul and be sure to let us know what you end up with. I'd love to hear your opinions of the next set that you purchase. Thanks for posting this video sir. Take care.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Ken, based on the other Hitachi router I have I thought for sure it had to be a winner. Quality may have fallen off since that one was made or maybe this one was just a fluke. There are lots of other makes and right now I am leaning toward the DeWalt. Thanks for taking the time to watch.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Enjoyed the show. Let me know if you decide on the DeWalt.

[@michaelrunnacles322]

I have the same router and I'm having the same exact problems. it may seem like a minor fix but it's a pain in the ass.

[@tooljunkie555]

thats too bad about all the cons ..i also considered this router before this hitachi was 159$ @lowes and my gut told me to wait so for once I listened, and I'm glad I did because I got the DeWalt combo router for $159 on sale at Rockler about five days later and its a mid sized router too. you should return it and looking to the DeWalt it always goes on sale you won't be disappointed

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Joe, you must be a mind reader, the DeWalt was next on my list to check out. Thanks for taking the time to watch.

[@tooljunkie555]

paulsmessyworkshop I get that sometimes LOL yes definitely check out the DeWalt it is the dwp611 fixed Bass plunge combo I love it variable speed it is a Workhorse in my shop I love it the micro-adjust is the simple twist similar to the high touchy has a light on it really easy to control can't say enough about it obviously LOL and for sure man anything to support and help a fellow woodworker out keep posting vids ill keep watching them and comme timg👍 I'm working on my next video actually has to do with all the stickers that I've gotten from all the other makers on KZbin that's all I'm telling everyone LOL don't want to give it away because it might not work out how an epoxy is going to be involved

[@HuskyHusqvarna]

I like turtles

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Mike, Good, I am happy for you. Thanks for watching

[@cplcombat]

I don't like the guide bushing, but he wishes they put one on the plunge base as well. Why so he can hate it more🤣🤣

[@jakelancaster5889]

Heat the plastic!

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Jake, good idea but you shouldn't have to do that on a brand new tool. That still wouldn't take care of the sticking plunge base. Thanks for the idea and for taking the time to watch. I appreciate your input.

[@cplcombat]

Why don't you stop doing that and bend the fine adjust a bit silly. Your making yourself look incompetent. I know when you buy things they should be right but really.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Sean, thanks for your input and opinion.

[@latengocomoburro]

What a POS, I was considering buying it, thank God I did not.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

latengocomoburro, not sure I would totally consider it a POS, yes it was not good example of a good tool but I can't honestly say it was representative of all units. Had they had another one in stock I surely would have given it a try to see if I just got a fluke. I appreciate your comment and for taking the time to watch my video.