12 Amp Corded Electronic 2.25 Horse Power Variable Speed Fixed-Base Router

Bought this router along with the RA1181 router table. When I installed the router onto the base, I noticed the The adjustment Device and dial indicator move freely up and down as if they’re not connected to anything. I moved the router into the 1st locked position and then mounted it to the base plate of the router table. While trying to adjust the height of the router, it was obvious there was an issue. The router was not moving up or down. The spring inside the tension lever may have broken which would be a plausible explanation as to why it just spins and does not move the router up or down. Also, the dial indicator was loose and spines freely. Very poor design. The router is virtually useless while mounted to the router table. What a disappointment. I returned it to Home Depot. Going with a Pro Lift from Rockler. I would rather have something that works than a paperweight. See video. https://youtu.be/yDgULjbwklI

The Bosch 1617 EVS router is a workhorse of a router for not only using with the plunge/fixed bases, but also for using in a router table. I've owned 3 of these routers and have gotten great results using everything from a straight bit to large diameter profile bits. If you are going to run raised panel bits every day you may want to get a router with more power, but for everything else, this router fits the bill. Pros: - Great price - Works with both 1/4" and 1/2" bits - If using in a router table, and your router table insert plate has the proper holes, you can raise the bit from above the table using the included tool. This isn't the best option, but it works. - Bosch carries plenty of accessories for this router including an edge guide, dust collection adapters, collets and more. - Plenty of power for everyday use. Been using these routers for roughly 8 years now. Cons: - Although I did mention the ability to raise the bit from above the table, that mechanism doesn't work well for very long and you will have to keep dust out of the screws that raise and lower the machine. - After you get some use on the router, the collets are a pain to get the bits out when changing bits. They get stuck and require other means of getting them out.

Great router well built but my unit came with a broken plate so had to return it and get a replacement. Lost time working only problem.

Very nice router. I used for the first time today (3/17/19) to plane a 48" X 24" desk top I am building. I had to make 3 passes on top and bottom using a 2" Bottom Cleaning bit. No power issues as all. Very smooth operation during the whole process. I know this is based on one use as this is my first time using - and it done well to start. So far - Happy.

Having never owned a router before I didn't know what I was missing - boy are these things incredibly versatile. Obviously I can't compare the Bosch with any other units but I'm very happy with it... except for one thing. It came with two collets, 1/4" and 1/2". I just recently attempted to use a 1/2" cutter but it wouldn't fit into the collet. Measuring with digital calipers showed that the cutter bit was 0.4995" diameter, so that wasn't the problem. Measuring the empty collet (so it should have been expanded to its maximum diameter) showed 0.483". The cutter would absolutely not fit, even trying to tap it in. I have no idea what this collet is, metric maybe? I'm going to try and contact Bosch directly... wish me luck. 4-stars for the actual tool, minus one for an unusable collet. If they square this away I'll bump it to 5-stars.

Great Router, in every way! This router was a replacement for another brand. It is well built and thought out. One of my best purchases!

it sure is easy adjusting the depth with allen wrench that comes with it, from above the the router table.

Rating provided by a verified purchaser

Rating provided by a verified purchaser