OF 1010/1400 Chip Extraction and Other ??'s

[mot]

As I fall deeper and deeper into the world of FPD, I am considering an OF1010 or 1400.  I like this stuff for it's ability to get chips and dust off the tool.  I have tried the onboard tool chip extractors from my Dewalt routers, and I'd rather poke a pencil in my eye than use them.  The reason is, I can't see the bit with all that crap attached, and they don't do a good job...so, can't see bit...bad dust collection...big headache.

With the Festool routers mentioned, how visible is the bit and how easy are these to use with all the chip extraction attachments on them.  I have a good stable of routers and would only add to it with something unique and functional.  Also, how effective is the chip extraction?

This question comes after getting a faceful when using my DW621 to route a rabet in the back of a door.

Thanks for any info.  I've watched the videos, but I was interested in first hand use.  Also, I'm used to using a DW621 and as far as the two OF routers go, I was wondering which one would be suggested for light duty home workshop use.  It will only be used by hand and never table mounted.

Thanks,

Mot in Canada

 

[Jesse Cloud]

Hey Mot,
I have the DW621 and the OF1400.  Not suprisingly, the DW hasn't had much use lately.  The OF1400 is a much better router.  I always found the dust extraction on the DW awkward and not very effective.  The OF1400 extraction is easy to put on and take off.  There is an attachment that runs along the side of the workpiece for edge treatments and rabbets.  Having said all this, its still not perfect and will generate more dust than a saw or sander, but still better than the DW.  Other neat features are the ease in changing bits (the arbor ratchets) and the ability to rest the router on its top or any side.

Only problem is that all my jigs are configured to the DW, gotta go back and make sleds that will fit the OF1400. :-\

 

[mot]

Oh.  Good info on the bit changes.  The DW is awkward to change bits.  I feel like I have hotdogs for fingers trying to keep the arbor lock engaged, get a wrench on, and then balance router on the bench as it doesn't really sit well.  Maybe I'll try a chair and put it on my lap.   

Convenience seems to be a big part of the festool line, and with limited shop time during any one project, I often find that I'll come back another day to do something that I wish I just did right then.  Normally due to digging through the ill fitting, non-stackable cases and then fiddling around with setup.

OMG, I'm having another attack of FPD!

 

[bassman00]

mot - I recently bought an OF1400.  Haven't used it much.  So far, only for chamfering and round overs using bits with bearings.  However, I found the dust collection excellent for those tasks.  I was able to see the cut just fine too.  The ratcheting arbor is sweet.

PaulD

 

[Brice Burrell]

  Mot, I have both the 1010 and the 1400, I really like the size of the 1010 and the fact that it comes with the edge and rail guides. However, you do need a screwdriver to change the guide bushing adaptor and chip catcher, because of this I tend to use the 1400 a little more. The 1400 will take 1/2" bits, but you will pay a lot more for it, if you want the edge and rail guides. Both are very nice routers. If money is no object, the 1400 is the way to go, but the 1010 will likely be a good fit for you if you don't use a router all the time.
Brice
ETA, dust collection is very good on both routers.

 

[Lou Miller]

I have an OF1400 and an OF1010. Both of them are better than other routers I've used when it comes to dust collection. However, the Festool routers are FAR from perfect in that regard, IMO. The dust chute on the OF1400 blocks your view a good bit and overall it only works so-so. Also, don't forget and loosen the plunge lock with the dust chute on and a larger bit in the router, because its not very hard to break it. The chip collector has been a major PITA a lot of the times I've used it. It really has a tendency to catch on corners when you're trying to edge something on more than one side. Unless I'm only edging one side of a piece, I don't bother with it. Its more trouble than its worth to me.

The above probably won't be a popular opinion here, but that's my story and I'm sticking to it... 

 

[mot]

Lou, those are the type of things I need to know. 

Thanks!