Hitachi KM12VC 11 Amp 2-1/4-Horsepower Plunge and Fixed Base Variable Speed Router Kit with 1/4-Inch and 1/2-Inch Collets
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Hitachi KM12VC 11 Amp 2-1/4-Horsepower Plunge and Fixed Base Variable Speed Router Kit with 1/4-Inch and 1/2-Inch Collets by Hitachi
Product DetailsManufacturer: Hitachi Model: KM12VC Product features: - Plunge and fixed base router kit with 1/4-inch and 1/2-inch collets
- 2-1/4-horsepower, 11 amps; variable speed (8,000 to 24,000 rpm)
- Nickel-plated motor housing for smooth depth adjustments
- Includes plunge and fixed base router; 1/2-inch and 1/4-inch collet chucks, template guide adaptor, centering gauge, sub-base plate, 3 wrenches
- 5-year warranty
Accessories:
Description of Hitachi KM12VC 11 Amp 2-1/4-Horsepower Plunge and Fixed Base Variable Speed Router Kit with 1/4-Inch and 1/2-Inch ColletsThe Hitachi KM12VC 2-1/4-Peak-Horsepower Fixed/Plunge-Base Router Kit is made for fine groove cutting, chamfering, window cutting, trimming, shaping, and pattern cutting. Featuring Hitachi's ergonomic styling, a powerful motor that is the quietest in its class, a two-state motor-release clamp, easy base changes, quick depth adjustments, and more, this router kit is a valuable addition to any workshop.  KM12VC Router Kit Tool Specifications |
| | Amps | 11 | | Peak Horsepower | 2-1/4 HP | | Max Collet Capacity | 1/2" & 1/4" | | No-Load Speed | 8,000 - 24,000 | | No-Load Noise Level | 79.5dB | | Plunge Stroke | 2.6" | | Weight-Fixed Base | 7.3 lbs | | Weight-Plunge Base | 9.9 lbs |
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Powerful 11-amp motor features electronic speed control for consistent RPM.
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Ergonomically designed handles provide comfort and control. View larger. |

A fine-depth adjustment knob enables precise depth control. View larger. |
Powerful, Quiet Motor Handles Hardwoods with Ease
At the heart of the KM12VC Router Kit is a powerful, 11-amp motor with 2-1/4 peak horsepower and nickel-plated housing. The motor has an adjustable no-load speed of 8,000 to 24,000 RPM for dialing in the perfect setting for the job. And the KM12VC motor features Hitachi's electronic speed control, which means this tool maintains constant RPM as the load varies, so you get precise, controlled cuts every time.Not only is the KM12VC's motor powerful, it's also quiet--at just 79-1/2 decibels (dB), it's the quietest in its class. And because less noise means less vibration during operation, this kit will give you the precise, controlled cuts you expect.
Two-Stage Motor-Release Clamp for Quick and Accurate Adjustments
With a two-stage motor-release clamp, the KM12VC Router Kit lets you make quick and easy base changes and depth adjustments. And switching from the fixed base to the plunge base takes just seconds. An added bonus, the plunge base features a fine-depth adjustment knob for precise depth control.
The KM12VC Router Kit is a versatile tool that accepts 1/2-inch and 1/4-inch bits, so it's compatible with the bits found in most workshops. In addition, the kit includes a 1/2-inch collet chuck and a 1/4-inch collet chuck for easy bit changes.
Ergonomic Design Enhances Comfort
Hitachi designed the KM12VC to be both comfortable and portable. For comfort, the handles are ergonomically designed, which allows for control, accuracy, and precision. For portability, the fixed base weighs only 7.3 pounds, while the plunge base weighs only 9.9 pounds. Additionally, both bases, the motor, and all of the kit's accessories fit securely within an included protective case for easy travel between jobsites.
This well-crafted router kit features a durable design that is backed by Hitachi's five-year warranty.
What's in the Box
KM12VC Fixed and Plunge bases with Motor, 1/2-inch collet chuck, 1/4-inch collet chuck, seven template guides, lock nut, centering gauge, 16-mm wrench, 23-mm wrench, 10-mm wrench, 4-mm hex-bar wrench, sub base (B), 10 hex socket HD bolt M5x10, and case.
Tools and Hardware Reviews of Hitachi KM12VC 11 Amp 2-1/4-Horsepower Plunge and Fixed Base Variable Speed Router Kit with 1/4-Inch and 1/2-Inch Collets
Customer Review: Almost perfect.
Summary: 5 Stars
I purchased the KM12VC kit when I was doing a mess of profiles and needed a 1/2" collet router. I have also owned a Ryobi R161, Black and Decker Firestorm FS1200RP, and PC 690. The Hitachi KM12VC is by far the most pleasant tool to use in my shop. Bid depth adjustments are fairly easy, and everything works as smooth as silk. Soft start keeps the router from trying to twist out of your hands when you fire it up. Simply put, I have used a LOT of different routers over the years, running the gamut from cheap hard to work with tools, the routers costing hundreds of dollars more than the Hitachi. From a usability standpoint, I have not yet laid hands on a router I like better. But it is NOT perfect. There are things about the router I dislike. These are.
#1. Toggle switch for the on / off function. It works, but seems like it belongs in a B29, not on a woodworking router. *** UPDATE *** I have been using this router for I guess a little over a year now. I have gotten to where I really like the toggle switch. It has been trouble free, and solid. Simplicity wins the day with this switch. It works as good as the day I bought the router.
#2. Lack of a collet lock. My Ryobi and B&D both have this feature, the Hitachi doesn't. I have to manhandle 2 collet wrenches to add /remove bits. *** UPDATE *** I have found the 2 wrench routine to be very easy to get accustomed to. I find it FAR easier to do bit changes with this than the B&D.
While these are certainly negatives, the nice features, the smooth, and quiet operation, and the fact that this router has yet to leave me wanting for power, make it likely I will buy a second one so I can keep bit depth set for doing tasks like dovetails... *** UPDATE *** The negatives ended up being far less negative than I had initially thought.
I have been so impressed with this router that I am leaving the fixed base in my Ryobi BT3100 table saw extension wing. To top that off, I ordered my second one yesterday. To say I am pleased with this router is an understatement. I have spun everything from tiny bits, to massive bits with this ting. I have never been left wanting, even with a giant panel raising bit... (Just take several shallower passes and work your way to full depth...
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