The router is one of the most versatile tools in any shop, and routertables make it even more versatile by incorporating it into a stationaryplatform.

The router table opens up a whole new world of using the router that simplycan't be done using it freehand. Ultimate Guide to the Router Tablestarts by giving the reader the option of building their own router table(with plans) or buying a manufactured table (with suggestions on what tolook for when buying). In either case, this book gives the woodworker allthe information they need to use their router table. Basic router-tableknowledge is covered in the first chapter: safety issues, setupfundamentals, feed direction and workpiece control. The next chapters coverspecific operations unique to the router table. The woodworker is not onlyhow to do an operation, but why to do it in the way explained (and thepitfalls of trying to do it another way). Sidebars and tip boxes willhighlight appropriate router bit choices, details on how to construct jigsthat can be used in conjunction with the router table and other essentialinformation. Illustrations and close-up photos show procedures clearly.*A router is mounted under a table with the business end of the routerprotruding up through a hole in the table. This enables the user to performtasks that can't be done with the router hand held. Operations such as edgeprofiling, making mouldings, cutting lock-miter joints, box joints,rabbets, grooves, splined miters, using templates, pin routing and more canbe done using a router table.