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And for hand-held operations, this router has a feature that many do not, a trigger type on/off switch on the handle. This router is my workhorse for hand held routing. Dual base router kits lack this important feature. This provides great control in router operations and is safer also. Adjustments are friendly, it is well balanced and has a very smooth plunge. It has plenty of power yet is relatively light weight.
I never recieved this item. I ordered this product over a month ago. I got an email saying it is on backorder and it will be a couple of weeks.
My other one had survived serious use over the past years, and still working today. I have several routers, and this one is my main one used always. I haighly recommend this unit over the rest. This is my 3rd Bosch EV. This one is much quieter, and the ergonomic design is right for me.
I have a PC for under my table, but I like the feel, control and just about anything else you can ask of this router. I use them freehand and with a fence. I have two of these that I bought over 10 years ago. The soft start is great, I like the trigger and the adjustablity. I am just getting ready to order number three.I am not color blind, I only have one other Bosch, a barrel handle jigsaw, everything else is a mix of what I like. They may have changed the number slightly, but same router. I use to keep both of them dedicated for my Leigh jig, but I liked them so much I was always pulling one off.
However, by readjusting the plunge mechanism, you can make it even tighter and safer for router table use. When possible, buy 1/2" shank bits to minimize the vibration.The variable speed is essential to control the velocity of the actual router bit cutters -- which will vary based upon the diameter of the bit itself and the RPM speed selected. I would disagree with one of the previous reviewers that said the plunge was ineffective. With Bosch in particular, I know the tool will be well engineered to meet users' needs for: 1) comfort, 2) precision, and 3) performance.The 1/2" and 1/4" shank adapters help because it give more flexibility in buying bits.
Speaking of using larger bits though, that is the only negative of this router, as a result of the opening in the base. After making this adjustment, the router's 13 lbs. of weight plus another 20-30 pounds of my pulling force weren't enough to budge the router at all in my router table.Overall, this is my favorite tool and has turned me into a Bosch loyalist. I would buy this or the Bosch 1617EVSK if I needed to buy another router. I did a lot of research prior to buying this and am glad I did. I've had it for over 2 years now and really love it. That opening is around 2-1/2" so it makes it difficult to utilize the entire plunge distance with very large diameter bits (raise panel bits, etc). I suggest users that will use this router in a router table or with large diameter bits readjust the spring/plunge mechanism.
However, if large bits are used with the Bosch, it can be very dangerous if the plunge mechanism isn't tight.I also use this occasionally in a router table. Do a web search on how to make this adjustment, but it basically involves the loosening and repositioning of the plunge handle. If those weren't available, I'd get the Porter Cable which is comparable in price, a little better in performance, a tad less in precision, and a little worse in comfort, but unlike the Bosch, will work with most generic router accessories. Just be careful to control the plunge handle once you take off the handle screw so the handle (internally) does not detach from the end of the plunge spring completely like I did or it will turn a 10 minute task into a 25 minute task. that are bigger than the hole. It takes some trial and error.but it's worth it.
After using various power tools from Bosch, Makita, Porter Cable, Milwaukee, Dewalt, Ridgid, Craftsman, Skil, Black and Decker, and Ryobi.only the first 3 I mentioned are in my top tier of toolmakers I really trust to make a good tool. It is very effective when not used upside-down in a router table PROVIDED you tighten the plunge. I knew if this before I bought it and still bought it over the Porter Cable 693VSPK which has a larger base opening. Hence, for bigger diameter bits, lower RPMs are necessary. It also makes it harder to change the bit and forces you to install the bit while the router is plunged.
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