Plunge router ~1500-2400 w
Skil RT1322
Best Plunge router ~1500-2400 w – Performance – 200 $ to 300 $
The SKIL RT1322-00 is a sensible Performance-range choice for woodworkers who want one corded router to handle plunge and fixed-base work. Buyers praise its power and easy setup, while reports of fragile dust-collection clips and occasional collet trouble keep it from being a carefree recommendation.
The SKIL RT1322-00 earns its place in the Performance range because buyers repeatedly describe it as powerful, versatile and easy to adjust. Their counted quality theme is strongly favourable: 36 mentions, including 29 positive and 7 negative. The independent Pro Tool Reviews test also finds a capable 14-amp router with useful electronic control, but flags limited soleplate clearance for large bits. This is a strong fit when two bases and accessible controls matter more than refinement. Its real limits are fragile dust-collection clips, occasional collet or bit security complaints, and restricted clearance for large-diameter bits.
Who it’s for DIY woodworkers and careful home-shop users who need both plunge and fixed-base routing without moving to a more specialised tool.
What sets it apart
- Buyers report useful power, including for hardwood.
- The plunge and fixed bases are reported as simple to change.
- Variable-speed control and the digital display are repeatedly appreciated.
- The combo gives one corded tool two working formats.
What to know
- Dust-collection clips may break in use.
- Some buyers report collet or bit-security problems.
- The soleplate opening limits some large-diameter bits.
What the reports support
The buyer evidence points to a practical, capable router rather than a flawless one. In the counted quality theme, most mentions are favourable, and the functioning theme is also mostly positive: buyers describe an engine that does the job without struggling under the uses they report. They also value the two-base layout, speed adjustment and readable digital display.
The limit is not hidden in the footnotes. Other buyers report dust collection that could be better, plastic clips that can break, and occasional loosening around the collet or bit. Those are reports, not a prediction that every unit will fail. The independent Pro Tool Reviews test adds a separate caution: the soleplate opening can be restrictive with large bits.
What buyers report
These are reported experiences, not an in-house test.
- Buyers repeatedly praise the power, two bases and digital speed adjustment for different materials and jobs. (comes up often) Amazon Canada customer reviews — SKIL RT1322-00
- Buyers report that changing between the plunge and fixed bases is straightforward and that the tool is easy to handle. (comes up often) Amazon Canada customer reviews — SKIL RT1322-00
- Some buyers report weaker-than-hoped dust collection and plastic accessory clips that break. (comes up often) Amazon Canada customer reviews — SKIL RT1322-00
- One buyer reports collet loosening and insufficient soleplate clearance for large bits. (reported in isolation) Amazon Canada customer reviews — SKIL RT1322-00
Frequently asked questions
Is this router suitable for a first serious workshop tool?
It can be, if you want both plunge and fixed-base work in one corded tool. Buyers report straightforward handling and useful controls. New users still need to manage bit security, dust extraction and the clearance limits noted by the independent test.
How good is the dust collection?
The reports are mixed rather than conclusive. Some buyers find it acceptable, while others say collection could be improved or report broken plastic clips. Treat the extraction hardware as a point to inspect, not as a guaranteed strength.
Can it handle large router bits?
Do not assume that it can handle every large bit. Pro Tool Reviews specifically reports limited soleplate opening, and one buyer also flags clearance with large bits. Check the bit and opening combination before starting the cut.
Sources
- Skil 14-Amp Router Review RT1322-00 — Pro Tool Reviews — Independent assessment of the motor, electronic control, ergonomics and soleplate clearance for large bits.
- Skil RT1322 Router Combo, 2 years and Still Going — Wood Butcher — Independent video test and reported long-term-use perspective on the SKIL RT1322 combo.