Bosch 1617EVSPK 12 Amp 2-1/4-Horsepower Plunge and Fixed Base Variable Speed Wood Routers Kit.
You can deal with a wide range of routing operations with the flexible Bosch Router 1617EVSPK Plunge & Fixed-Base Variable Speed Kit. This best wood routers kit includes a strong motor with precision bases, advanced speed control technology, and a lot of advanced features that can help you get an assortment of tasks done accurately and quickly.
You can take care of the toughest routing tasks with the machine’s strong 2.25-hp or 12-amp motor and its flexible speed range of 8000 to 25000 rpm. A variable speed dial will allow you to set the best possible speed for the routing material and task. And with the integrated Constant Response Circuitry, your router can keep up a consistent speed all through the cut so that you achieve more accurate, cleaner results. With the built in soft start feature, the motor lessens the torque upon start-up in order to get a smoother transition and an easier usage on your part.
The flexible kit offers all the elements needed for plunge routing and fixed-depth routing, as well. The micro-fine bit depth adjustment systems on the bases permit for precise and fast bit depth amendments. The micro-fine adjustment has a total range of an inch and is precise to 1/64 inch.
The Bosch 1617EVSPK 12 Amp 2-1/4-Horsepower Plunge and Fixed Base Variable Speed Wood Routers Kit is best suited for:
- The DIY’er
- Home shops
- Will hold up to professional work loads
- Wrenches, chip shields, carrying case
- 2 by 19-1/2 by 14-1/2 inches
- 19-1/2 pounds
- 1-year warranty
Bosch 1617EVSPK
Unlike many comparable routers, the Bosch 1617EVSPK is designed to move from base to base without the use of tools. Instead, it clamps solidly into place for quick and easy transfers. What’s more, the motor never rotates while adjusting depths, allowing you to stow the power cord on either side where it’s out of the way.
This versatile kit provides all the components necessary for fixed-depth routing and plunge routing, as well. Adjustment systems of Microfine bit depth on both bases allow for accurate and fast bit depth adjustments. The microfine adjustment has an overall range of one inch and is accurate to 1/64 inch.
You can tell this is a great tool from the moment you open the box! You can really feel the quality just by lifting it out of the box. It comes with a great carrying case, and it’s so easy to switch over from plunge base to fixed base. It also has plenty of power for all your router needs.
Here are some great features of the Bosh 1617EVSPK:
- Electronic variable speed plunge and fixed base router kit; soft start, micro-fine depth adjustments
- router combination kit of 2-1/4-horsepower & 8,000 to 25,000 rpm of variables speeds
- Wooden handles are aluminum construction; on fixed base; soft-grip handle on plunge base
- Includes plunge and fixed base, collet chucks, wrenches, template guide adapter, chip shields, carrying case
- 2 by 19-1/2 by 14-1/2 inches; 19-1/2 pounds; 1-year warranty
- Cheaper routers can be found but lack the stability, accuracy, power, and options of the Bosch 1617EVSPK. I found this to be an excellent router kit for the home woodworking shop. It’s powerful and flexible enough to do most any task. I bought it due to excellent reviews in woodworking magazines and was not disappointed. Also, there is a full range of accessories available to adapt it to many jobs.
The Pros
- 8 Position turret plunge base
- Very powerful
- Soft start
The Cons
- The handles on the fixed base are horrible
- The switch is poorly located
- Reports of faulty switch problems
Photo by toolstop 