I meant stiff, as in no flexibility in the whole machine. Stiff rails, stiff supports, stiff structure, and no backlash (play in the screws) either.
The idea is to keep the router in the position you want...no wandering around. Any flexibility, coupled with the forces involved with cutting metals, will result in a poor quality of cut.
Remember, it's easier to build a stiff router, if it's small. Especially if it's your first attempt.
-- Chuck Knight |