Accessories

Great Router
I now have four routers, including a very old, worn-out Sears 1 HP and three that I bought for my shop within the past few months: DeWalt DW618 multi-base 2-1/4 HP kit, a Triton 3-1/4 HP plunge router, and the Porter Cable 694VK multi-base 1-3/4 HP kit. All three of the new routers are absolutely super. The DeWalt is used only hand-held and it is smooth, powerful, and with the D-handle very easy to use. The Triton is used exclusively in a router table, a use for it where it really shines. And the PC 694 kit, which I bought for use in the shop at my vacation home, is light, adequately powered, and very easy to handle. Both the DeWalt and the Triton are very easy to change bits, where the PC unit is much more difficult, requiring two wrenches (The Triton and DeWalt machines have shaft locks). The PC router doesn't seem to release the bits very easily. I can't rate longevity on any of these. Maybe this time next year.

awesome variable speed router
i was looking to buy a v/s router looked at the dewalt.{ i own the single speed router.}happy with that one. but i did not like the v/s switch and after looking at this unit i gave it a go. very glad i did. you can rotate the speed knob easily.

Very Good Router, just dated
I have had my PC router plunge/fixed base router kit for about 5 years, and have used it quite a bit. The PC 690 series are very good routers that are very durable and have been around for many years. The PC 690 was the router by which all other routers of similar power were judged. If you buy a PC 690 series router, you will have a very good router - however, you may find yourself wishing that you bought a different, more modern router for about the same amount of money.

As the years have passed, other routers have appeared on the market that are good routers with more modern features (above table bit changes / height adjustment, easier base changes, etc.) A few years ago, Porter Cable came out with a new and improved line of routers, the 890 series - that was obviously inspired by the 690 series.

If I were looking for a new plunge/fixed base router kit today, I would buy the 890 series - the 690 series is still very good, just dated.

Great Tool
PC seems to set the standard in routers and I can see why. Lightweight for easy handling, plenty of power (for a handheld) and the soft start is a big plus when hand holding. Setup for plunge cuts is easy.

Industry standard - AND EXCELLENT BUY
If you want a basic router with great fixed and plunge bases and both 1/4 and 1/2 collets then:
JUST BUY IT!!!

I have had mine for over several years and it just keeps on truckin'

Ken