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Milwaukee announced a new M18 Fuel cordless router, 2838-20, which they describe as “a complete replacement for a corded mid-sized router.”
The router delivers 2.25 peak horsepower, with Milwaukee also emphasizing its control, comfort, and runtime.
There are two bases available for use with the router motor – a fixed base, and a plunge base.
The router motor features a variable speed dial, from 12,000 to 25,000 RPM, and over two inches with both macro and micro-adjust knobs. It also has a dual LED worklight.
A guid rail adapter is available separately, 48-11-2838.
Key Specs
- Collet Sizes: 1/4″, 1/2″
- Weighs 8.8lbs (tool-only)
- 10.9″ length x 10.5 height (tool-only)
- 12,000 – 25,000 RPM
- Variable speed
- Spindle lock
- Dual LED light
- Dust collection shroud
With respect to runtime, Milwaukee says that the mid-sized router provides best-in-class run-time with up to 225 linear feet per charge, when routing 5/8” roundovers in pine.
The kit, 2838-21, comes with the router motor, plunge base, fixed base, 1/4″ and 1/2″ collets, XC 6Ah battery, rapid charger, tool bag, dust shroud, edge guide, collet wrenches, template base.
A bare tool is also available, 2838-20, bundled with the fixed base.
Price: $349 tool-only, $599 for the kit
ETA: September 2023
Discussion
There are very few cordless mid-size routers on the market. You can get a lot done with a compact 1/4″ trim router, but there are a lot of times and tasks where a 1/2″ router is more suitable, whether for its power, typically wider base, or router bit compatibility.
I have warmed up to trim routers over the years, not so much because of their size, but because of the convenience modern cordless versions offer.
With the new M18 Fuel cordless router, it seems that tool users don’t have to choose between power and cordless convenience. I am extremely eager to see if Milwaukee’s new mid-size router can truly serve as a corded replacement.
