If I were going to buy ONE hand held router, what would it be?

[scott vroom]

I plan to purchase a hand held router as a gift for my son. My only experience with routers is limited to my 2 PC routers: 6902 w/1001 fixed base for hand held trim flush, roundover, etc., and a 7518 dedicated to my router table. Both serve me well.

Assuming the gifted router will never be used in a router table, what is the sweet spot for hand held general purpose routers that will accept 1/4" and 1/2" collets? I guess HP is critical, as is a good base. Is a plunger type considered essential for general woodworking (cabinets, tables, book cases, etc.)?

I want to buy a top quality router.

I notice on Amazon a number of top name router "kits" that include both fixed and plunge bases....this seems to make good sense. All are around $200 which is on budget. Examples:

http://www.amazon.com/Bosch-1617EVSP...rs+woodworking

http://www.amazon.com/DEWALT-DW618PK...rs+woodworking

http://www.amazon.com/Hitachi-KM12VC...rs+woodworking

http://www.amazon.com/Porter-Cable-6...rs+woodworking



Am I on the right track?

Many thanks!