Milwaukee 1/2 Cordless Router 2838-21 | Tool Review
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- čas přidán 10. 11. 2023
- Milwaukee M18 ½” cordless router 2838-21 | Tool REview
PURCHASE LINK: acmetools.pxf.io/jrBb3M
ARTICLE: www.toolboxbuzz.com/cordless-...
For me, the most exciting feature about this router is that its more powerful than a trim router, boasting 2-1/4 HP, and it allows for either a ¼” or ½” collet. The higher 2-1/4 horsepower and larger 1/2-inch shank are better suited for heavy-duty routing jobs with larger bits. Additionally, I prefer using ½” router bits because they resist deflection better than a 1/4-inch shank bits. Larger shank router bits are especially important when using a long bit, which is subject to greater deflection, and when using a piloted bit, with a bearing.
First Impression
At first glance this router appears to be well made, with a robust aluminum housing, well placed controls, levers, and smart rubber over-mold. It’s plunge mechanism and adjustments feel solid, buts lets break this router kit down further and discuss it in detail.
Features
• 2.25 peak horsepower
• ¼” or ½” collets
• Plunge base with 2.5” of travel height.
• Fixed base [Diameter 6”]
• Edge guide
• Dust collecting shroud.
• 6-step depth turret provides quick, depth adjustments at 1/8” increments.
• Depth rod has a micro-adjust knob allowing 1/4” adjustments in 1/64” increments.
• Macro-adjust button provides fast adjustments throughout the 2” of total fixed base travel.
• Variable speed dial from 25k to 12k
• Weight w/ 6.0 Ah battery 8.8 lbs. [6.2 lbs. without battery]
• Height 10.5”
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/ @concordcarpenter - Jak na to + styl
Thanks for the review Rob. This will be added to my shop arsenal very soon. I'm moving more and more towards cordless tools for most general woodworking tasks.
What I like about your reviews is before I watch I already know it’s going to be good.
Wow thank you
I want my companies to stock all Milwaukee products from next year.. in South Africa. I have watched loads of products... Total detailed presentation.. good points about the lining up base plate and extra screws...❤
Great review, Rob! Looks like a great tool.
Excellent detailed video!!! Thanks for doing the leg work!! You guys are great!!
I have the m18 trim router, and I like it. I have the plunge base with it, which is great.
The one issue with the m18 trim router is that the micro adjust moves from the vibration of the router in the fixed base if you don’t tighten the clamp a lot. In order to prevent the micro adjust slop, you have to tighten the clamp so much that you can possibly crack it. Milwaukee could have improved that, and the adjustments on the 1/2 inch look way more solid. The edge guide on the trim router also doesn’t mount very firmly.
Still, i like the dust shroud on the trim router. The brake is instant. The trim router is very powerful for a small trim router. I think the tool is good overall. I may at some point try to put just a dab of locktite on the adjustment to try to eliminate how it can move from router vibration. The plunge base is quite solid though.
This 1/2 inch router seems awesome. I wouldn’t mind just buying an extra set of thumb screws. I like torx and allen screws more than Phillips, but I might replace the stock ones with something that works well with other bases.
I may get this router for bigger routing work. I would love the stability and capability of 1/2” shank bits for deeper routing or when you really need to hog out a lot of material.
I did not know the trim router had a plunge base. I have/had the same issue with the micro adjust dial. Didn't realize it until I was trying to flatten a piece with a router sled I made and was cutting new passes when I went to clean up prior passes. I was kinda devastated. I just tightened the macro adjustment, but now the micro adjust is all but useless.
Great review😊
The fact its beastly and cordless is the main draw for me....its the reason I try my darndest to use my milwaukee trim 1/4 inch router o=ver my corded if I can help it....but its pricey....as it should be for such a dependable tool line....if I have the $$ at some point though....its going to get thrown at milwaukee since I already have so many batteries cause they constantly bundle them....I really want it damn it lol
I really wish they would have made dust collection less of an apparent afterthought. I really like how the festool has the hose connected vertically instead of that awkward and fragile adapter on this Milwaukee.
That right there is key. Routers make a HUGE mess. Festool has a monopoly on router dust collection at this point.
It is awkward I wouldn’t call it fragile. It’s the exact same dust shoot from the plunge base for the trim router. I’ve had that one for a couple years with no issue using it on the job site etc. I’ve only had the half in router for a couple of weeks now, but I expect it will hold up just as well as the previous one considering it’s the same design.
@@steffendetrickyou’re correct, I don’t know it’s fragile. I should have said fragile looking. I’ve had experience with another dust adapter on a Bosch that was made of a similar appearing clear plastic and it didn’t take much to eventually break. This one looks awkward enough that I suspect not enough people will care to use for us to ever know.
Rob I did a review of this router on my channel ce tool den. I agree with you on the dust collection being not very good. I may have a way to improve dust collection but haven"t done it yet. Will have to experiment. Otherwise this is a great router and worth it as it's the only one of it's kind that has a fixed and plunge base. the metabo hpt at this time is only a plunge base.
If you purchase the plunge base separately from the router bare tool, it will come with 2 additional set screws in the plunge base kit. However it's about $30 more to do it that way.
Great overview by the way!
Get the Metabo HPT 1/2 plunge
More power, better warranted, cheaper, all in one, AC adapter capable, lighter
Etc etc and got two yrs more use while Milwaukee was behind it
just bought this router and got the plunge base separately. the plunge base came with a separate metal U-bracket and 2 thumb screws! guess Milwaukee listened to your recommendation!
My dad had "flat head" screws, and then the cost cutting that made the screws and the screw drivers such that they stripped out. Then came the Phillips screws, and well the story repeats. Now I prefer torx head screws and bits. But noticed the other day a twisting of my bit. The industry keeps trying to solve self induced problems. Make something quality and it just works.
Great and thorough review. I didn't see it mentioned in the video, but if anyone is looking for the rod diameter (for guide fence attachment), it is 9/32" (7mm). I purchased this router and measured the rods with a micrometer. Just thought it helpful, in case anyone else was curious about third party accessories (such as the Woodpeckers Multifunction Router Base). The holes/rods are the same size as my Porter Cable 890 router with fixed/plunge base.
Hey thanks I looked everywhere and it wasn't even in the manual and that was the exact product I was researching it for. Did you go with the 6mm 1/4" rods?
@@AK88. I did. I put a video up on my channel (JT's Workshop) that goes through it in more detail if you need.
I picked this router kit up a couple weeks ago with the track edge guide. The track compatible edge guide works great definitely recommend picking up especially if you’re already into a track saw it had the tracks.
Thanks for the info!
does the track guide and vac work at the same time or only one at a time?
@@AK88. together. It’s not one or the other and it works well.
Definitely looks high quality and better built than the 36v Metabo but the Metabo is available for $180 bare tool, so I'm not sure the Milwaukee is quite worth double. Now I'd just like to see them go the other direction and make a 12V router with a body similar to a drywall cutout tool. Basically a cylinder with a collet and an adjustable base. I have used my Bosch 12v router for way more than I expected, but it doesn't have the ergonomics that it appears to. An M12 router with minimal features that most of us would dedicate to 1/8-3/16" roundovers, small profiles, and hinge/striker mortises, would definitely be a big seller, especially paired with the M12 HO batteries. I also think they can easily make a M12 brad nailer, but that's a different story. Nice review sir, thanks.
M12 brad nailer was announced at this year’s Pipeline. I have the HPT cordless plunge router and it’s excellent.
@@minialbinocuda1 I just checked the pipeline and that's awesome. Only 1 1/2" nails though which is acceptable but I assume it's solely so they're not competing with their M18 2" capacity. I'm not entirely convinced they couldn't get it to sink 2s. The Metabo router is on Amazon right now for $152 and I'm having a tough time not ordering it. I just haven't used a full size router consistently for a long time since I've found the cordless lam trimmers to be so capable. I might have to grab it and design some projects that require it lol
The Metabo HPT is a beast in the shop and jobsite
2yrs heavy use, still going strong
Nice review. I don’t really need this router, but damn, your review makes me want one. Already have 6 routers including an old, heavy Elu, a corded PC trim router, the Makita cordless trim router (couldn’t wait any longer for Milwaukee to make one) a Bosch 1/2” router with fixed and plunge bases, and 2 Festool OF 1400s (one permanently mounted in my router table). But none of them are 1/2” and cordless so I guess that’s enough logic to buy the Milwaukee since I’m heavier invested in the M18 platform, LOL.
Great video, seems like it’s got plenty of power that’s for sure
It sure doea
I agree the power is awesome.
That Milwaukee 1/2Cordless router is awesome , one THING missiing is Dust outlet that is mounted on machine? Not sure but the new Dewalt 1/2cordless might have it on their router built IN
There's another guy reviewing this in the UK and his kit came in a black packout tool box. Why cant they sell that in the US?
I have the m18 trim router and love it, but have the 3 piece 2-1/4 HP Dewalt set for bigger jobs. My stance is if I'm hooking up to a vacuum already for dust collection, then why care so much if the router is cordless?
Great video review anyway. You're in my rotation of tool reviewers that I'd actually trust.
Agree - not loving the bag this comes in
How about using an upcut router bit for dust collection purposes? I found out when using a fence, template guide or a guide of some sort that does not require bits with bearings; It greatly improves dust collection.
15:57 @A Concord Carpenter / ToolBoxBuzz
Hey Rob, Love the show & info. Wondering what Vac you’re using in this video clip and how it works for ya. Still looking for my “unicorn” vac I need for using as wet/dry shop vac, and then as dust extraction vac as well…haven’t found one yet, lol.
Also, just so ya know, my MOM, watches your show, and actually bought me a track saw last Xmas based on your opinion and thoughts/tests! Thanks so much for that, and wasn’t 1st time either….so keep up the great work, especially b/c if my Mom can sit and watch your show about tools etc…..and then she buys what you recommend etc….you TRULY DONT GET HOW AMAZINGLY AWESOME THAT IS👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Well done, well done🫡✌🏻
Would really love to see full in depth video about charging and maintaining lithium batteries especially when using and not using batteries, for long term storage, batteries bought new, etc
Great suggestion!
Hi Rob. I do not have the vast experience you have. However, may I suggest that when passing a piece of material against a spinning bit on a router table, your hands are at least a foot away from the blade at all times. Thank you for your work. All the best for, christmas.
Fantastic review Rob!
Have a love/hate relationship with the Makita cordless activate button.
So bought the Milwaukee which I love, then 2 months later this was announced 😮.
Very pricey with less than seller dust collection.
Am in Metabo (not hpt), Milwaukee and Makita platforms, so unless neither of the other 2 brands come out with one, this will be joining me in '24.
I have a piece of plywood on brackets, that switches out with tablesaw that will become an on-site router/assembly table.
1/2 is definitely better system, still have my first cordless PC (the original cordless from the 90's) but a little too top heavy.
The Hikoki/Metabo HPT runs circles around this red one
@@baseballdude8491 1/2 or 1/4?
@@2chipped1/2" full.size
MHPT/Hikoki also has a 18V and 36V 1/4 trim router as well
Nice Tool nice haircut Mr Rob
Hi mate, what adapter do you use to get your festool connected?
Wish they had a nicer edge guide like Bosch
Nice Vid!
Anything that the OF1400 still wins on? Dust collection looks easier on the 1400 and not sure if this will work with the lr32 system
im excited for a dewalt 20v 1/2" router. Ive been using my dewalt cordless router on this router table I created a while back, and the 1/4" bits kinda suck. While i'd love to buy this milwaukee one, I'd rather not have to buy more batteries.
18:03 wish was included & as happy runs on makita tracks; what about Bosch…..they feelin lonely 😩
18:21 thx for this conclusion; 18:58 AND I wasn’t sure to go for the Metabo HPT 36V Multivolt Plunge Router which is 2HP motor and uses both 1/4 and 1/2 inch shanks for the tool, and being multivolt you can use AC battery adapter (IF ABLE TO FIND AND BUY ONE), but after watching this video, think will go for the Milwaukee now, only thing not thrilled about is the Milwaukee tool case. Like the Milwaukee Track Saw Kit, that incl. a Packout tool box, Milwaukee missed the mark here w/ the soft canvas tool bag for storage; instead of, doing what we all wishing and thinking……having this Router Kit (and the KIT Only) come inside a Packout Box w/ custom Kaizen Foam in box and on lid w/ charger mounted to lid already etc…and EVEN a place/spot in Kaizen foam for the sold separate track guide, that won’t work w/ Bosch Tracks, but the rest is okay😉🤣 🤦🏼. Than you’d be having one heck of an awesome experience and a kick-butt Router Tool Set worthy of Milwaukee’s name and powering through tons of linear feet of whatever can dream up!
I’m pretty sure you’ll, see that as an option
One thing I feel a premium product like this should really have is micro adjustment on the fence. Strange he didn't mention this
On the edge guide?
@@ConcordCarpenter
Sorry yes the edge guide. To me on a full size router I feel micro adjustment laterally is almost as useful as micro adjustment vertically. Got so sad it didn't have one I instantly threw my money away and bought one from microfence. Very expensive though 😅
@@patattack1919 I was thinking I'd try the bosch or dewalt micro adjust edge guides. I have the bosch so when I get the m18 router I'll give it a shot.
I’d like to see more universality in the guide rod size and spacing between brands. I love the Festool edge guide and I’d love to be able to use it on other routers.
Can you use the rail guide and vac attachment at the same time? How important is the lack of an angled base and how does it compare to a Metabo HPT?
P.S. You actually used it wrong according to the manual, can you believe it says "Never use the router with a router table or router
lift. Serious injury or product damage may occur." Why is that?
Wish they would make a D-handle base!
I agree. D-handle is far more practical and appealing for the farmers that would primarily be using it to cut out window and door openings.
If they are not going to include 2 additional 40 cent thumb screws for the second base, I don't think that they are going to design a D handle base. IMHO.
You first me had that on my mind
D IS THE BEST
What's better this or the Hikoki 1/2" ?!
Well now I know I have to get one my mind is made up
$599? Geez, that’s expensive. I own a corded DeWalt 12 Amp 2 1/4hp Fixed/Plunge/D Handle kit that currently costs $315 or so on Amazon. I’m a big router guy, but that needs to come with like two batteries to even get my attention and I might still want a coupon!
It doesn’t look like a bad tool, I just think it’s a bit too expensive.
It’s pricey
I couldn't agree more. I have a Craftsman Professional 3 piece set that is corded but has many accessories and a carrying case that didn't cost anywhere near $600. It's a great unit.
I would say for what you get it's not a bad price
Festool has a router cost much more and it's corded
@@marvinbenjamin3015 I know. However, my DeWalt routers are beefy and come in full blown kits that are cheaper while achieving similar results. I'm not knocking any whop would be interested, I'm just stating that it's expensive and only offers the lack of a cord as a reasoning for the price.
It's the price of being on the bleeding edge, IMO.
Is this router still light enough to do lighter work like wood sign carving or should i buy a compact router? Thanks in advance to anyone who answers
Yes
Still second fiddle to the Metabo HPT 36V 1/2" plunge
We use it in the shop and job site
The only half inch cordless router I'm aware of. Doesn't look like the handle of the plunge is very user-friendly. better make sure you always have a full battery with large bits. maybe there's a reason why half inch routers are always corded.
Pretty sure Metabo HPT has one
Apparently it will only cut / plunge to a maximum depth of 38mm in the uk , due to metric / imperial measurements of the collets ..
not sure how true this is .. but certainly no good for cutting butt & scribe worktops …
Giggity goo
Milwaukee m18 router vs metabo hpt 36v
Question is do i get this or wait for dewalt to make one
This one
Correction - 1/4" bits* @1:00
Not a complaint about your testing: but why does testing easily over a $100 worth of wood?
Don’t you want to know?
👍🤘🤙
Thats absolutely ridiculous the adapters needed to fit the stupid festool hose lol.
DIY grade tools with professional grade price tags. It’s a shame but that’s the way of the world. Tools built so badly that can’t be repaired and just get warranty replaced. shouldn’t be that way.
What’s a pro grade to you.?
@@ConcordCarpenter from a longevity/build quality and reliability standpoint. anything but Milwaukee at this point.
Anything id not really an answer. Im looking for you to support your statement
@@ConcordCarpenter Makita.
Long commercial.
This is just 20 minutes off promoting a tool, sorry but this has nothing to do with a tool review. You lost my respect on you older better tool reviews
I’m sure that once several of these are available from the different manufacturers, they’ll do a head to head. The 1/2” collet cordless routers aren’t really prevalent. Milwaukee and Metabo HPT are the only ones I know of that are battery powered. It doesn’t make a whole lot of sense to set up all the head to head style testing for one tool.
Because he liked the router and critiqued a couple little things like the dust collection and the thumb screws. But you obviously just wanted him to say terrible things about the router. It’s a review not a head to head. That was a pretty well rounded in depth review. You must be a Dewalt or Makita guy.
@@benfowler2127the Metabo HPT is head and tails superior in all facets
25,000 rpm is insane
25,000 ÷ 60 = 416.66 revs per second
Wow
Edit- that can't be right