Review on 🔧 Kreg Precision Router Table Insert Plate with Level-Loc Rings - Predrilled for Bosch & Porter Cable Routers (PRS4036) by Rubeen Black

This router table insert does not live up to Kreg's reputation and leaves a number of things unsatisfactory. First, the insert is capped, rising 3 1/2 inches from the entry side to .007" above the edge of the insert and remaining flat 5 inches from the center of the drill to the exit edge of the insert. where it gradually drops to 0.008 inches below. Back to front, the crown is 0.004 inches above the surface at the edges of the plate. This might be perfectly acceptable for some carpenters, but I make small things and it wouldn't work for me. I know that the current "look" for fitting insert plates is that inserts are capped to avoid bulging caused by the weight of the cutter and/or working pressure. I understand that even Lee Valley supports this view. I don't buy high quality phenolic material that flexes a bit under pressure, but this can be controlled by placing leveling screws under the plate not only at the corners, but also centrally on each side. Any panel warping over time can be corrected incrementally with screws if necessary, until usage wear, not weight, warrants a new panel - years from date of purchase. Also, the surface of this Kreg plate has a grainy texture (similar to "pebble" synthetic coated surfaces are designed to improve smoothness) but I found this both distracting and unnecessary and less smooth than the flat machined surfaces of others Phenolic Plates I've Used Finally, insert rings do not fit flush with the top of the plate, especially when tightened to normal operating torque - at that torque they are at least 0.007 below the top surface of the plate and are uneven - they tilt when tightened tightening is a stupid trick, but that's all It takes longer to find the plastic key, put it in the holes, turn it, remove the insert and do the reverse operation than the "old style" - pull the ring out and push in the new method.