If you love woodworking, you’ll love having a powerful router. A router makes dovetailing, mortising, inside cutouts, and profiling cuts easy. The only problem is deciding which model is right for your needs. Let’s take a look at these two from Triton to see which one is the best for you.
Triton MOF001 2 HP Dual Mode Precision Plunge Router
If you plan to do a lot of free routing, the Triton MOF001 may suit you better than its bigger brother, the TRA001. It has a 2HP motor with speeds between 8,000 and 21,000rpm but it weighs just 10.4 pounds. The two side handles make for a nice stable grip in the palms of your hands.
Switch between plunge routing and fixed-base work with one single button push. When it’s time to plunge, the rack and pinion system is very precise. The Micro Winder lets you do continuous adjustment all the way down to a depth of 2.32 inches.
The 3-stage turret has easy-to-read scales so you can choose a preset depth. While you’re working, the guards protect you from the bit and the cut zone. The multi-function fence helps when you need to cut small circles and as a guide when you do free routing.
The soft start and variable speed gives you superior control over the cut without risking damage to the work piece. As the router slices its way through wood, the dust shields help keep your work area clear so you can see what you’re doing. Although you can attach dust extraction, some users have complained that their current systems aren’t compatible with Triton’s setup.
If you place the MOF001 under the table to work, you can change bits without crawling under the table yourself. Extend the spindle all the way and it automatically locks. At that moment you won’t be able to start the router accidentally. Then you can use the wrench to change the bit above the table.
More features of the Triton MOF001 plunge router:
- Triton offers a 3-year warranty
- The 13Amp motor uses 1400 watts
Triton TRA001 3-1/4 HP Dual Mode Precision Plunge Router
If you plan to do more table routing or work with large panel bits, you may prefer the larger Triton TRA001. While it has almost the same features as the MOF001, including speeds up to 21,000rpm, it has a more powerful 3.25HP motor. It’s heavier by about three pounds, making it a little awkward for handheld free routing.
As a table router, the TRA001 excels. It’s easy to change bits even when the router is under the table. It has the same automatic spindle lock and safety-off switch that the MOF001 has. Once the spindle is extended all the way out, it locks in place and the router can’t turn on accidentally. All you need to do is grab the wrench and swap out the bit.
The plunge stop system has three preset stopping points. Two of these points have measurements you can easily read. The Micro Winder system lets you do precision adjustments all the way down to a depth of 2.6 inches. That’s a little deeper than the MOF001 can do.
Like the smaller router, this one has a multi-function fence to help you cut small circles and do free routing. It’s removable if you need it out of the way. Of course, the router also has a good guarding system to protect you while you work.
The dust shields and dust collection system work best when you are using the TRA001 on a table. They especially shine with under the table work. The air intakes on the the router are located on the sides so it’s protected from sucking too much dust into the motor.
More features of the Triton TRA001 plunge router:
- Triton offers a 3-year warranty
- Accepts up to ½” bits
Recommendation
If you need a powerful, precise plunge router for freehand work, consider getting the MOF001. It’s lighter in weight than the TRA001 but its 2HP motor is plenty for small to medium-size jobs. You can also mount it above or below a router table.
If you plan to do more table work, consider getting the TRA001. It has a 3HP motor for bigger jobs, like those that need raised panel bits. It has a deeper depth capacity as well. Its weight isn’t ideal for free routing.
Click here to purchase Triton MOF001 on Amazon.com!
Click here to purchase Triton TRA001 on Amazon.com!