Power Tools
Best Wood Router for Table Mounting
Woodworking is an immersive and fascinating artistry that calls for a broad scope of power tools, depending on the project you're working on. For instance, when it comes to table mounting, you'll need a reliable wood router along with other tools. Nonetheless, searching for the right companion might be a hectic process.
To make this easier, I have researched and found the best wood router for table mounting. Whether you're a beginner or professional woodworker and are wondering which wood router to purchase, by the time you're done reading this piece, you'll have made up your mind.
Here we go!
BOSCH 1617EVSPK Wood Router
Bosch has a reputation that precedes them, and so does the Bosch 1617EVSPK wood router. Everyone wants to feel good about their purchase, and no purchase, in terms of the wood router for table mounting, will make you feel better than the Bosch 1617EVSPK.
With this router, you get a top-quality tool offering unparalleled precision, accuracy, and user-friendliness. So, whether you're here because you want to know what this power tool offers or can't decide which wood router to choose, my review will convince you that this model is the most suitable option.
Specifications
Weight: 18.2 lbs.
Dimensions: 6 by 11.5 by 11.6 inches
Load speed: 8000 to 25,000 RPM
Amperage: 12 amp
Voltage: 120V
Collet size: 0.5, 0.25, & 3/8 inches
Plunge range: 6-11/16 inches
What I liked
It offers incredible versatility
It has a double-base system
It provides enhanced durability
It is extremely user-friendly
It comes with LED lights for improved visibility
What I didn’t like
Switching the base can be somewhat difficult
Key features
As promised, here is my comprehensive review of the Bosch 1617EVSPK:
Design
As the saying goes, the devil's in the details, and Bosch didn't take anything to chance when manufacturing this model. Their attention to detail is amazing! Consequently, this wood router is both sturdy and compact. It weighs 18.2 pounds which might not be on the lightweight side, but it is more portable compared to other top-of-the-line models.
Its dimensions stand at six by 11.5 by 11.6 inches, hence great portability, and it takes up less space, which is convenient if your workshop isn’t spacious. You'll appreciate the dust seal feature if you're cautious about keeping your power tool functional like me. It guarantees the settings aren’t tampered with because of dust generation when working.
Further, the Bosch 1617EVSPK has one amateur shaft and a base opening of 2 inches. Plus, it comes with a plunge base and fixed base option, a wooden grip for the fixed base, and a soft handle for the plunge base. This lets you use it with ease.
What's more, the aluminum build ensures this model is lightweight and durable at the same time. This way, it gives it a standing chance considering all the abuse it might endure on the job site or workshop. The in-built constant response circuitry, a locking system, a switch clamp system, and microfine bit depth alteration help surge this tool's ability and value.
Motor
The Bosch 1617EVSPK has impressive power settings for such a compact build. First, it works excellently on 120V outlets, with its potent 12-amp rating. Also, the motor delivers an incredible 2.25 hp, making it ideal for demanding projects.
If you're not yet impressed with the motor, you'll love that it delivers six speeds from 8000 to 25,000 RPM, offering you more control over your work. Plus, it features consistent circuitry for monitoring itself as you work.
Versatility
Another thing I loved about the Bosch 1617EVSPK router is its versatility. This makes it ideal for both beginner and professional woodworkers. When working on my project, I could easily use it as a handheld tool, thanks to the fixed base, which features a threaded hold for additional stability when mounting on the table.
The collet's capacity of 0.25, 0.5, 3/8 inches, and 8mm, makes this model more versatile, especially in diverse circumstances. The plunge and fixed base options also impact versatility. Lastly, the Bosch 1617EVSPK can edge cut, groove, trim laminate, make dovetail cuts, and do edge profiling.
Unmatched controllability
This Bosch model offers great controllability, which ensures a smooth routing process, and excellent precision. The first feature that offers you control over your work is the six adjustable speeds between 8000 and 25,000 RPM.
The second feature that guarantees controllability is the soft starting motor. As opposed to an unexpected shift in the motor speed, the soft starting motor facilitates progressive acceleration to the specified speed so that the tool doesn't pop out of your hand.
Besides, the collet options, in tandem with the wooden and soft-grip handles, allow for a firm grip.
Accuracy
It goes without saying; a wood router for table mounting needs to deliver accuracy, and there's none better than this model's. As a professional woodworker, I can recommend this tool to both beginners and professionals, thanks to its ease of use. Besides, the microfine depth modification settings offer precision and control according to your project.
That's not all; I found the accuracy-centering feature really impressive. It locks the bit where you intend to make the cut, using other guidance gadgets like jigs, dovetail fixtures, and templates. Lastly, this model has a chip deflector to keep the cuts smooth and visible.
Accessories
If you still need convincing that this wood router is worth purchasing, you'll be glad to know that it comes with a handful of accessories, so you can begin using it immediately. The accessories included in the package are:
A carrying case
Chip shields
A collet nut wrench
A shaft wrench
0.25- and 0.5-inch collet chunks
A fixed base
A plunge base
Cost & Comparison
Fortunately, the Bosch 1617EVSPK wood router will cost you less than $250. I purchased it on Amazon at $199, which might sound like a lot but considering the accessories this package includes, it is on the affordable side.
That said, the DeWalt DW616 and the Makita RC0701C, which almost beat the Bosch as my top pick, are cheaper at $126 and $104. Nevertheless, they do not come with any accessories.
Worthy competitors
DeWalt DW616 Wood Router
As with all DeWalt products, the DW616 is a reliable, highly functional, and accurate wood router. It is powered by an 11-amp motor that delivers 1.75 hp, slightly lower than the Bosch's 2.25hp. Nonetheless, it delivered consistent speed and increased power.
In terms of durability, this unit is made using laminated aluminum. Also, the quick & easy depth modification is handy for attaining your desired cuts. The LED light achieves better visibility, while the lock system is integrated to ensure the workpiece remains in position while cutting.
Finally, it has a cord set configuration that enables swift and easy modifications, while the microfine depth variation makes your work easier and more effective.
Makita RT0701C Wood Router
This model is an excellent budget option and doesn’t sacrifice power or functionality. While it is mostly used for making cupboards or decorative moldings, it is also perfect for table mounting. It is extremely lightweight, at 3.9lbs, and sports a compact build for ideal portability.
The engine box includes aluminum construction, and the body is made of metal alloy for maximum durability.
Additionally, the lower half of this model offers great visibility. That said, the amperage is somewhat low at 6.5amp compared to the Bosch's 12 amp. However, it delivers a whooping 30,000 RPM and a power rating of 1.5hp, improving its suitability for home utilization.
Lastly, the rack-and-pinion mechanism is easy to use and works to get accurate results.
Why you should buy the Bosch 1617EVSPK Wood Router
When all is said and done, this is among the best products from Bosch and is certainly worth buying. This is one of the best buys for all woodworkers, from beginners to professionals, since it has all the handy features you need for table mounting, like impressive power, user-friendliness, and maximum controllability.
Besides, this model is the right pick for any project requiring precision.
I hope you enjoyed my Bosch 1617EVSPK router review and will trust that this is a worthy purchase.
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