The router is a prerequisite for woodworking. Everyone familiar with woodworking is familiar with a router. Numerous brands in the market manufacture routers. Now the question which bugs most of us is: ‘ How to determine the best router before buying?’ Well, worry no more! We are going to review one of the best routers available, which is Bosch 1617EVSPK. In this article, we will review and analyze the router of Bosch, that is, Bosch 1617EVSPK.
- VERSATILE: kit can be used for a broad range of applications, including precise bit plunging, edge forming, slot...
- DURABILITY: aluminum construction makes this one of our most durable wood routers yet with wooden handles on a fixed...
- EASE OF USE: rounded hardwood handles maximize user control; microfine bit-depth adjustment
Contents
Design
Design becomes a crucial factor when it comes to power tools. Bosch 1617EVSPK has a robust design. It is highly durable. It’s motor housing, as well as the base, is made up of heavy-duty aluminum. This makes it tough and helps it to last long. Bosch 1617EVSPK is designed with precision. Its power switch comes with a dust seal to protect it from damage. All the necessary steps are taken to ensure a long-lasting quality product.
The design of the router makes it ideal for use. It includes wooden handles on a fixed base, and soft-grip handles on the plunge base, which is very convenient for the user. The comfort of the tool makes it one of the favorites among customers. This tool has an exclusive quick-clamp system. It allows the motor of the tool to move freely from base to base. The design of Bosch 1617evspk is unique as it has the Depth Adjustment System. The Depth Adjustment System enables the tool to adjust coarse as well as microfine bit. Moreover, the motor of this power tool has a one-piece armature shaft. This provides more accuracy and long bit shank capacity.
The bases of the tool are designed for better visibility. The large openings on both bases with 2-inch sub-base openings are perfect for larger bits. Bosch 1617EVSPK gives us the freedom to choose the speed. The product has variable speed dial. The variable speed dial allows you to set the optimal speed. You can change (increase or decrease) the speed according to your task and the material you are working on. Also, the base Diameter: 6 inches Fixed/ 6-11/16 inches along with rounded hardwood handles maximize the control of the user on the tool. More so, both the bases of the Bosch 1617 EVSPK have exclusive precision centering design. This helps in centering optional template guides.
Technical Specifications:
- Manufacturer: Bosch
- Warranty: 1 year
- Part Number: 1617EVSPK
- Item Weight: 18.2 pounds
- Dimensions: 6 x 11.5 x 11.6 inches
- Model Number: 1617EVSPK
- Style: 2.25 HP Combination Router
- Material: Metal, Plastic
- Power Source: Corded-electric
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Horsepower: 2.25
Performance
The performance of the Bosch 1617EVSPK is quite good. The performance is enhanced by its 12-amp motor, which features a horsepower of 2.25. Moreover, a brilliant performance is ensured by the micro-fine depth adjustment system. It allows us to adjust the depth to an accuracy of 1/64-inches. It helps in clear and precise cuts.
One major factor behind the excellent performance of Bosch 1617EVSPK is its durability. The router comes with a complete aluminum housing which lasts long and proves to be a wise choice. Bosch has put quite an effort into this router to ensure excellent performance. The lightweight, durable tool is made better with its consistent speed. This fixed base router provides consistent speed while cutting (see how it differs from plunge router). It has a Constant Response Circuitry which allows the router to monitor itself as we use it. This feature maintains the speed level according to the user.
A significant feature of the product is the variable speed of the motor. The motor is the heart of a tool. It is one of the top features to look for in a product. A standard motor that has a fixed speed is always at risk of getting burnt. The variable-speed engine, on the other hand, gives you the freedom to adjust the speed of the motor and reduce the risk of overheating.
Also, Bosch 1617EVSPK has a large motor with a high RPM rating. This 2.25-horsepower motor is one of the most massive motors available for any handheld power tool. The horsepower is the same as found in bigger table models. The motor is 12-amp. It has an extensive range of revolutions. It can produce from 8,000 revolutions per minute to 25,000 revolutions per minute.
Moreover, a common problem with tools like routers is that when the motor heats, it revs up, making the tool jolt away. Bosch 1617EVSPK has introduced a Soft Start feature. This feature allows the motor to heat up and run quickly. It also allows the motor to maintain a consistent level of power throughout. Also compare it with Dewalt router.
This helps in maintaining a grip on the top or handles. The performance of Bosch 1617EVSPK is also aided with its Large Collect Capacity. It is one of the most desirable features of a router. Bosch 1617EVSPK is one of the few tools in the market with a large Collect Capacity. It has a wide range of capacity. It can be changed from as small as eight millimeters to ⅜ inches.
Bosch 1617EVSPK has a fixed base router. It provides consistent speed while cutting. The tool comes with Constant Response Circuitry. This allows the router to monitor itself as we use it. This feature maintains the speed level during cutting. A hand tool needs to have a perfect weight. Too bulky products are not convenient to use. Whereas, too lightweight are ineffective. Bosch 1617EVSPK has just the ideal weight. The product has an optimum weight to allow sturdiness. Moreover, it is straightforward to use the router because it weighs less.
- The dust seal allows for enhanced protection.
- Variable speed of the motor
- Soft start motor
- Large collect capacity
- Consistent speed of the device
- Lightweight
- The router base opening is not considered optimum for dovetail jigs.
- It does not come with an arbor lock.
- It lacks the templates that other similar tools have.
- The c-ring is loose
- It is hard to change the bits
- In some cases, the feedback is not good. One major issue reported is: it started bending after a few uses.
Installation
Bosch 1617EVPSK is a complete package. It comes along with a tool kit. The combo is available on amazon. The carrying case helps in keeping all of the components together. It also protects the tool and accessories and is easy to carry around. This whole kit comes with a one-year limited warranty. Bosch also provides a service protection plan for one year on this product.
Amazon offers a 30-day money-back guarantee on the product. Upon purchasing, the customer will get the whole combo kit along with the bag. It includes the following items:
- 1/4″ Self-Releasing Collet Chuck
- 1/2″ Self-Releasing Collet Chuck
- 16mm Shaft Wrench
- 24mm Collet Nut Wrench
- Carrying Case
- Fixed Base (RA1161)
- Plunge Base (RA1166
- Fixed Base Chip Shield
- Plunge Base Chip Shield
- Motor
- T-Handle Hex Height Adjustment Wrench
- Pack of 3 10-24 Screws for Table Mounting
Price
Price is an important factor while buying a power tool. The Bosch 1617EVS is one of the most rightly priced items in the world of tools. It is a highly budget-friendly, high-end router. In comparison with the competitive models, Bosch 1617EVSPK is significantly cheaper. However, it gets even more affordable if we compare its features, performance, and durability to the other models available in the same category.
Bosch 1617EVSPK is a product with excellent money value. The 13 years old Bosch 1617EVSPK is positioned as a mid-range to the high-end router. It is available on Amazon in eight style variations. The price is subject to change according to the market, but it is generally known within the range of $200 to $300.
Moreover, Bosch 1617EVSPK is part of a combo kit. The kit includes a chip shield that fits on the fixed base. This shield blocks chips from hitting the bit. We also get three wrenches. The price charged by the brand for all these items and features is quite reasonable.
Our Verdict
Bosch 1617EVSPK is an excellent choice for all woodworking enthusiasts. This router is graced with all of the best features and techniques. Its long term value makes it highly affordable and a wise financial choice. It’s a unique amalgamation of convenience and excellence that makes it ideal for both novices and professionals alike. It manages to provide an array of benefits that outstrip the few flaws exhibited by the product. Also take a look at Bosch’s RA1181 and Bosch 4100.
Bosch 1617EVSPK will save you from frequenting the tool shop. It will enrich your woodworking experience with superior performance.
Bosch 1617EVSPK - Editor's Choice
Summary
The performance of the Bosch 1617EVSPK is quite good. The performance is enhanced by its 12-amp motor, which features a horsepower of 2.25. Moreover, a brilliant performance is ensured by the micro-fine depth adjustment system. It allows us to adjust the depth to an accuracy of 1/64-inches. It helps in clear and precise cuts.
Can the fixed base be attached to a Bosch or Skill router table?