Tool-free templet guide adapter for fast and easy templet guide changes
Editorial Review:
Variable Speed 12 amp motor provides soft start. Maintains speed under load and provides overload protection. Electronic variable speed with 8,000-25,000 RPM range for max. versatility. Precision centering system for accurate cuts. Self extracting collet system for less run out. Includes 1/4" and 1/2" collets.
Bosch recently introduced routers that they claim have the highest power-to-weight ratio in the industry. We believe them. The 1617EVSB variable-speed router features a stout, 2-1/4-horsepower motor coupled with an aluminum base and housing. The result is a well-balanced and smooth-operating machine that offers fast results in demanding applications. We love the nicely finished hard-maple handles that make this router feel like a fine-woodworking tool. Something Bosch engineers are proudest of is what they call the "precision centering system," which makes the router bit track at true center. It's an important feature for multiple-pass applications, like jig cutting, and fine woodworkers will particularly appreciate it.
Ease of height adjustment is a way of measuring quality in routers, and Bosch has come up with a system that works as well as any we've tested. A large flip lever releases the motor for adjusting. Rather than twisting as the height changes, the motor raises and drops in a straight path. The result is a simple and smooth-working course adjust that couples with an efficient microadjust to make fine-tuning the depth of cut easy and accurate. Another feature we like is the reversible motor, which lets the user place the switch and cord on either side. It's good for lefties, and for those of us who get annoyed when the cord always seems to be in the way. The collet is self-releasing, which means there's no need to tap the spindle to change bits, and the collet depth is 13/16 inch, a few 16ths deeper than that of DeWalt or Porter-Cable--one more weapon in the Bosch battle to for a truly centered bit. --Mark McDonald
Customer Reviews:
Avg. Customer Rating: 4.0 / 5.0
Bad Switch and Bad Design:
If you ever plan to use this router mounted in a table pass it by. Purchase a different brand. I have owned the router for a little over one year. It is table mounted and used infrequently. I have had to replace the switch numerous times. The service tech told me that this is a common problem with this router, if table mounted, because of dust build up within the switch. Now after only 40 minutes of use it has failed again. Bosch offers no help and based on the history of the problem, dating... more info
Nice router, bad switch:
I've have a number of Bosch tools and they have all been good with the exception of 2 routers. One, the 1613 plunge router and this one, the 1617 plunge router/fixed base router kit. Both have bad switches. Both switches were replaced with new bad switches. Dust. How can a company that makes quality tools make routers with switches that are not dust proof? These routers were purchased 4-5 years apart. I thought that would be sufficient time to address the problem. Apparently not... No more Bosch routers for... more info
Great, except for a defective switch:
It's great when it runs. Not so great when you're in the middle of a project and it won't turn on. I am on my 3rd SWITCH. Very frustrating. Add the cost of 2 extra switches, time to replace and order and shipping, and down time and this is one expensive tool!
The plunging base is also flimsy plastic handled and is not nearly as stout as the main tool. Buy a heavy duty Porter Cable.
Switch Problems:
I have had this router for 3 years and am now on my third switch. This is ridiculous. I thought Bosch was a good brand. Very disappointed. Would otherwise be a great router.
