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Best Router For Door Hinges Of 2024: Completed List

Brandon Forder
  Mar 29, 2024 4:01 PM

Even though many of us learned to make mortises for door hinges with a hammer and chisel, these days a router is the best instrument for the job. With the use of a router, you may cut away the exact quantity of wood needed to accommodate the door hinges.

This ensures a flawless mortise every time and streamlines the process of putting in a new door.

There are many factors to think about while purchasing a router. Is a cordless version necessary, or would a standard plug suffice? Which kind of router base do you prefer, a fixed one or a plunging one? Is it small or big?

So that you may be sure you're purchasing the proper type, I'll explain how to choose a router for door hinges and examine some popular models.


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Buying Guide

Plunge Base vs. Fixed Base

Routers with a permanent installation serve the same purpose as their name implies. You can use it without worrying about the base shifting even if you put a lot of pressure on the handle.

Because of this, they excel at top-down and edge work but suffer from a lack of versatility.

Pushing down on a plunge base router allows you to move the bit to a new location. As a result, you can cut mortises, dadoes, and grooves in them, among other things.

Plunge routers require a little more skill to use correctly due to the lack of a permanent base to keep the bit in place.

For hinge routing, either style of router will work, but plunge routers tend to make life simpler. Instead of needing to begin at the door's edge, you can make the entire mortise from above.

Keep in mind that many routers have both a fixed base and a separate plunging base. If you want a versatile router, this is the one I'd suggest.

Variable Speed

The motors in routers can be either fixed in speed or variable. To change the speed of a variable-speed motor, simply turn the knob.

Variable-speed motors are standard on most new routers, however single-speed motors can be had for less money.

Due to their efficiency on a wide range of substrates, variable speed motors are widely favored. You can achieve the optimum speed for cutting hardwoods, softwoods, metals, and other materials.

Corded vs. Cordless

While this is somewhat subjective, in most cases it makes more sense to use a hardwired router rather than a wireless one.

Battery life is short in cordless routers, so your productivity will be constrained until you change or recharge them. Thus, if you want a router that can endure for a while, you should get one with a bigger battery, perhaps 4 AH or more. This can be annoying since it adds more mass to the tool, making it top-heavy and more awkward to use.

The lack of a tripping tether that comes with corded routers is a huge plus while trying to get things done.

Router Bits

Router bits can be found in a wide variety of lengths and configurations. In the world of woodworking, there are many different types of router bits to choose from. Some are designed for making intricate profiles, while others are used to obtain exact profiles on the edges of hardwood boards.

Different bit shapes serve different functions, therefore it's important to pick the right one for the job. You can't get the results you want from a router without the right bit for it.

You'll need the right router bit to cut holes for door hinges that are both precise and accurate. Read our piece on "Best Router Bit for Mortising Door Hinges" for additional information.

Edge Guide & Templates

These days, you can find a router with a built-in guide for making precise cuts along an edge. However, if they don't, you may always get a new switch that is compatible with your router from the same manufacturer. For those just starting out, edge guides are a great aid in creating straight edges, grooves, and cuts in wood.

The router can also be used in conjunction with a door hinge template to install door hinges. Again, this is quite helpful.

Ease Of Use

This is among the most crucial considerations you should make when purchasing a router. The ease with which it can be used is crucial. There are numerous contributing variables that make this possible. Some of these features are a compact size, a rubberized grip, and an ergonomically built body.

Also, make sure the router's depth adjustment is simple and quick to make adjustments on the go. How the motor's speed can be adjusted is also something to think about.

Edge Guide

With the aid of edge guides, it is much easier to direct the tool along a straight line. Straight edges are simple for seasoned pros to create, but they can be challenging for amateurs. Having a guide or a template to use as an edge is quite useful.

Most routers already come with these extras. However, these extras aren't included with all routers, so you may have to purchase them individually.

If possible, choose for a machine that already includes an edge guide and template sheets to avoid having to buy these items separately.

Ergonomic Design

For projects where the router will be used for extended periods of time, it is important that the design be comfortable to hold. Wrist ache is a real possibility if the routers aren't held in the optimal way.

Pick a holding surface with grooves or finger rests so you can keep a solid grasp on the router. It's also important for cutting with accuracy.

Weight

The ideal weight for a router is around 4 pounds; much heavier and it becomes more of a hassle to move around. Go with a router that can be easily relocated. You'll be able to keep going for longer without becoming tired.


FAQS

Can you cut door hinges with a router?

Yes! A router can be used to cut the door hinges. Actually, there are several options available.

The router can be ran along the edge of the hinge with a straight bit. This will provide an accurate and precise cut, suitable for a wide range of uses. You can improve the accuracy of your cuts by using a template as a guide. If you have multiple hinges to cut at once, this is the way to go about it.

One last step is to use a chamfer bit to give your hinge a finished beveled look. This will complete the door's appearance and make it simpler to open and close. If you want to cut a perfect hinge the first time, no matter whatever method you use, you need to take your time and practice.

Can you use a router with door hinges jig?

The answer is yes; many individuals have a router set up for the sole purpose of making door hinges. When paired with the door hinges jig, the router is a great tool for making clean, accurate cuts. This can be accomplished with a planing or straight router bit.

Can I Cut Through Aluminum With A Router?

If you have the right router bits, then yes. The standard bits found in a router kit may usually be used without any difficulty on thin sheets of aluminum. The appropriate bits should be used, however, for the tougher ones.

Will A Router Work With A Hinge Template For Doors?

Yes. Use a hinge template and a router to make precise cuts. This will simplify matters greatly. Thus, it is something we advise to those just starting out.

Will a router cut metal?

That, of course, is a loaded question. Routers can be used to cut metals like aluminum if the right bit is attached to a powerful enough machine. A router shouldn't be used to cut ferrous metals like steel.

Can I cut Corian with a router?

Corian is a very solid and long-lasting material. However, if you have router bits with carbide tips, you can use a router to cut Corian.


Conclusion

A short tip: before you draw the curtain, open your room door and check that the hinges are flat with the door surface. The hinge fits precisely because of the precise cut performed before hand.

Learning this skill is crucial, as is investing in a high-quality router designed specifically for mortising door hinges.


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