The Bottom Line
The Craftsman 28084 Router Combo includes a pleasant surprise that most 2-1/4 HP router kits don't include: a D-Handle base in addition to the standard fixed and plunge bases. Matter of fact, this router kit is loaded with features that are all included with the kit at no additional cost.
As with many recent Craftsman tool releases, the 28084 Router Combo is reasonably priced if one considers everything that is included. The tool is durable and powerful, but seems to lack the refinement of some of its competitors. This is a good, solid woodworking tool that could be exceptional with a bit more attention to detail.
As with many recent Craftsman tool releases, the 28084 Router Combo is reasonably priced if one considers everything that is included. The tool is durable and powerful, but seems to lack the refinement of some of its competitors. This is a good, solid woodworking tool that could be exceptional with a bit more attention to detail.
Pros
- Includes three bases for the 2-1/4 HP, 12.5 amp motor: Plunge, Fixed and D-Handle
- Loaded with features such as dust collection port, edge guide and heavy-duty carrying case
- Very detailed documentation. Includes additional booklet for getting the most out of your router
- Fixed base can be adjusted for depth of cut without removing from router table
Cons
- Motor seems a bit slow to get up to speed - To get to top speed takes about six seconds
- Fine-depth adjustments are a bit sloppy. Will get the job done, but takes some patience
Description
- Including a D-Handle base along with standard fixed and plunge bases is a nice touch.
- 2-1/4 HP, 12.5 Amp motor has six variable speeds, adjusting between 12,000-25,000 RPM (no load speed)
- Motor includes a spindle lock for one-handed bit changes.
- Contains two nicely detailed manuals, which include a lot of tips for getting the most out of your router kit.
Guide Review - Craftsman Router Combo 28084 Review
When opening the box containing this Craftsman Router Combo, I was immediately surprised by the amount of "stuff" in the case. It was very well laid out, with everything in a place that seemed to make sense.
When picking up the motor and the three bases, the first thought that comes to mind is "solid." This tool has a very solid feel that doesn't disappear when bits are put to wood. The bases are stable and the engineers did a good job of not covering up the sight lines when using any of the three bases. I particularly enjoyed using the D-Handle base, although I found the thumb lock for the trigger to be a bit sloppy.
The fixed base was comfortable to use, and I appreciated the depth mechanism that allows for adjustments to the depth of cut from above a router table without needing to reach underneath the table. On all of the bases, the handles were well-positioned and I had no trouble controlling the router at all times.
My biggest complaint with this combo could best be described as a lack of refinement. For instance, on both fixed bases there is a pair of controls for adjusting the depth of cut. On both of these bases, the knob could be turned more than one complete rotation without making any appreciable change to the depth of cut. While the knobs are functional, they're a bit sloppy.
The plunge base plunged smoothly and easily, but again, the depth adjustments weren't quite up to par. The locking mechanism seemed to hold the base securely, although I'd prefer a mechanism that locks in its default position (and must be engaged to plunge the router) rather than Craftsman's choice of an "engage to lock" mechanism. This may be a matter of personal preference, but I find mechanisms that lock by default to be safer.
While the 28084 could use some refinement, it would be a very good choice for a beginning woodworker's first router.
When picking up the motor and the three bases, the first thought that comes to mind is "solid." This tool has a very solid feel that doesn't disappear when bits are put to wood. The bases are stable and the engineers did a good job of not covering up the sight lines when using any of the three bases. I particularly enjoyed using the D-Handle base, although I found the thumb lock for the trigger to be a bit sloppy.
The fixed base was comfortable to use, and I appreciated the depth mechanism that allows for adjustments to the depth of cut from above a router table without needing to reach underneath the table. On all of the bases, the handles were well-positioned and I had no trouble controlling the router at all times.
My biggest complaint with this combo could best be described as a lack of refinement. For instance, on both fixed bases there is a pair of controls for adjusting the depth of cut. On both of these bases, the knob could be turned more than one complete rotation without making any appreciable change to the depth of cut. While the knobs are functional, they're a bit sloppy.
The plunge base plunged smoothly and easily, but again, the depth adjustments weren't quite up to par. The locking mechanism seemed to hold the base securely, although I'd prefer a mechanism that locks in its default position (and must be engaged to plunge the router) rather than Craftsman's choice of an "engage to lock" mechanism. This may be a matter of personal preference, but I find mechanisms that lock by default to be safer.
While the 28084 could use some refinement, it would be a very good choice for a beginning woodworker's first router.
