Skil Offers Woodworkers its First Cordless Router
Learning how to use a router unlocks one of the best tools for adding stylish details and creative touches to your woodworking projects. However, full-sized models are often heavy, expensive, or bound by the confines of a power cord. Today, I’m taking a closer look at the latest Skil PWRCore 20 Compact Router so you can decide if it’s the best option for your next project.
Skil PWRCore 20 Compact Router Performance
- No-Load Speed: 15,000 – 30,000 RPMs
- Speed Modes: 6
- Max Bit Diameter: 1.3 in.
- Collet: 1/4 in.
- Motor Type: Brushless
Speed and Power
At the heart of Skils compact router you’ll find a brushless motor with 6 speed settings ranging from 15,000 RPMs up to 30,000 RPMs. That kind of speed puts it in line with the Milwaukee 2723 and the Flex FX4221 compact routers.
During our testing, this router performed well in soft and medium-density wood, but we noticed the motor worked a little harder when we stepped up to hardwoods. That’s not too surprising, seeing as this is a compact trim router and it does have it’s limitations. If you need to handle more demanding routing tasks, I’d suggest adding Skil’s 14-amp corded model to your arsenal as a supplement.
Skil PWRCore 20 Compact Router Design Notes
- Model: Skil RTI430
- Power Source: Skil PWRCore 20 battery
- Weight: 2.5 lbs (bare tool), 4.1 lbs (with kitted 4.0Ah battery)
- Tool Length: 6 1/2 in.
- Dust Port: 1 1/4 in.
Size and Weight
The Skil RTI430 weighs 2.5 pounds as a bare tool, is 4.1 pounds with the kitted 4.0Ah battery, and stands 6 1/2 inches tall. These dimensions are pretty consistent with many of the compact routers we’ve tested over the years.
Ergonomics
When I first picked up this router, one of the first things I noticed was that it was very well-balanced. Most trim routers are kitted with a compact battery to help keep the weight down, but Skil pairs the RTI430 with a 4.0Ah battery. Despite this, the tool isn’t overly top-heavy.
Unlike many tools nowadays, Skil didn’t employ any rubber overmolding on this router for comfort or protection. At first, this felt like a downside, but there is some texturing on the outside of the barrel grip for added security.
One design element I love is that the controls are centrally located on the front and side of the tool. This allows you to make quick speed and depth adjustments with minimal movement.
Adjustments
Skil uses a standard micro-depth adjustment dial, which allows for movements as small as 1/64th of an inch. A quick-release lever features a spring-loaded release button for making macro adjustments before you use the micro-adjust dial to fine-tune your depth. The tool also has a depth guide with inch and mm to help you improve your accuracy during complex routing tasks.
Additional Features
- LED worklight
- Compatible with all Skil 20V batteries
Skil PWRCore 20 Compact Router Price
The Skil RTI430 retails for $149 as a kit with a 4.0Ah battery, a charger, an edge guide, a dust port, and a 3-piece router bit set. Skil backs this router with a 5-year limited warranty.
The Bottom Line
Overall, the Skil PWRCore 20 Router is a compact, easy-to-use option that’s great for edge routing and other light-duty tasks. On the one hand, it doesn’t have as many bells and whistles as some of the other options out there. On the other hand, it has a brushless motor with better performance than brushed models while keeping its price much more affordable than Pro-level brands and offering more value than its DIY competitors.
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