“A clear trend in woodworking is the move to more compact power tools, and this includes routers,” said Joe Soto, Makita Product Manager, Woodworking. “With our new RT0700C Compact Router, we engineered performance into the tool with a one and one-quarter horsepower motor, as well as precision features like rack-and-pinion fine depth adjustment. But we also made it more compact, so it’s actually the size and weight of many laminate trimmers.
We have seen this trend starting with the original Bosch Colt 1HP Variable Speed Router PR20EVSK ($89, Ohio Power Tool). More recently the Compact DeWalt/Porter Cable routers were introduced which was the first time we saw the plunge router option with one of these compact units. Having used that version we have been very impressed with the versatility of the compact model, since that time our thought has been leave the big motor in the router table and use the compact for more and more tasks.
The Makita RT0700C Compact Router has a powerful 1-1/4 Horsepower motor with a variable speed control dial (10,000-30,000 RPM) that enables the user to match the speed to the application. Additional performance features include electronic speed control to maintain constant speed under load, and soft start feature for smooth start-ups. The RT0700C is double-insulated with a heavy-duty aluminum motor housing for increased durability.
Additional features include a slim and ergonomically designed body that weighs only 3.9 lbs., with a durable flat top design for added convenience when changing bits. The base can be removed quickly to install other bases, and the shaft lock is engineered for quick and easy bit changes (uses ¼” shank router bits). The RT0700C includes the tool, ¼” collet, 3/8″ collet, straight guide, template guide, dust nozzle – straight base, and two wrenches.