festool router options

[Good77696e]

I'm interested in purchasing a new festool router for what seems to be superior dust collection. I want to use it with some of my templates. I'm interested in the OF 2200, but the only thing that is throwing me off is the way the handles are offset by 30 degrees. I can see that this is probably nice for a straight cut, but would think it might feel a little funny on the curves. For example, I have a template where I will cut some small circles.

Does anyone have any thoughts on this? I thought about the OF1400 too, but those handles seem a little awkward to me too.

 

[peter halle]

The angled handles of the OF2200 were engineered to enhance control.  When I used it in class it was easy to operate.  Personally I have the 1400 and don't find the handle position to be an issue.

Peter

 

[ccarrolladams]

Hi Good and Everyone,

I own all 4 of the current Festool routers, Since I bought my first router in late 1946 I have owned 103 of them, from virtually all manufacturers.

When Festool introduced the OF2200 into the USA I bought one of the first sold in Los Angeles. Since then OF2200s have become my go-to template router. Those handles combined with the marvelous triple bearings and mass of the OF2200 for me make them ideal when following templates.

In a perfect world you could go to a brick and mortar Festool store and try an OF2200 for yourself. Or, you could make use of the 30 day return policy. Buy one, try it for 30 days and then if it does not satisfy you, return it.

 

[semenza]

I have the 1400 and when I bought it I wondered if I would like the handle. Felt odd at first but after a couple uses I liked it much better than more traditional styles. Control is excellent.

Seth

 

[MrToolJunkie]

The 2200 handles are in a perfect position for routing in my opinion and that is just one of the many features that make this such an exceptional tool.  I would get it and try it out...as Carroll indicated, you have 30 days to try it and make sure.  It is a great machine and the dust collection is awesome.

Scot

 

[hemlock]

I just bought the OF1010 and it sounds like you need something bigger.  However, since the handles are similar to OF 1400 and  you are considering that I will add that though odd at first, I have actually found I really like the placement of the handle and plunge control.  Didn't think I would.  It was one of the few festools I own (this is my first festool router) that I thought I may take advantage of the 30 trial period and return it...  No way I am giving this powerful little (key attribute for me, its very l light but surprisingly stout with power) beauty back  [big grin].   

 

[Sparktrician]

When I used the OF 2200 in class, I was initially a little bit intimidated by its size, power and weight, but very pleasantly surprised at how natural it felt in the hand.  I've had Bosch and P-C routers in varying sizes and both have been good for me, aside from the dust collection issue.  Once I used the OF 2200, I was sold.  Now I wish Festool would offer the OF 1400 in the form of the OF 2200 providing the lighter weight of the current OF 1400 with the superior dust collection and handling of the OF 2200 along with the PlugIt connector, making it more capable of being approved for use in the CMS. 

[smile]

 

[fastbike]

Has there been a recent chance in the OF1400? My OF1400 has the plugit cord as well as excellent dust collection. Is the OF2200 noticeably better at dust collection? Just curious.

 

[ccarrolladams]

In North America the OF2200 does not have a Plug-It cord. It is hard wired.

My own experience is that generally I get better dust collection with my OF2200 than with my OF1400. Possibly this is a result of all the experience I have gained from using OF2200 for many years. I admit I seldom use my OF1400, so maybe I am not good that arranging to to collect dust effectively.

 

[jonny round boy]

In North America the OF2200 does not have a Plug-It cord. It is hard wired.

The OF2200 is hard-wired in the rest of the world, too. I guess it (potentially) draws too much power for the plug-it connector to handle.

 

[Stone Message]

I now have both the OF2200 and the OF1400. There is almost the exact same thread as this that was running just after Christmas but anyway...

OF2200 offset handle - no problem. They are very comfortable, you have easy reach of the controls and the whole thing is a real gentle giant that will handle everything.

OF1400 side handle - I too thought that this might feel strange but it works well. It is a beautiful router that has the full range of collets and the power for almost every task.

I have made videos of both routers which may help. If, after you see the videos, you have any further queries just let me know. If there is anything that will be of value to other FOGgers then I will see if I can set up a demonstration video or at least some photographs.

Peter