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Mexico, Mexico City
1 Level
730 Review
38 Karma

Review on ๐Ÿ”ง BOSCH 1617EVS 2.25 HP Electronic Fixed-Base Router: Precision Woodworking Tool for Professional Results by Brad Davis

Revainrating 5 out of 5

Ideal for CNC use!

Ideal for use in a CNC router! First I routed this router through double hockey sticks by using it on a CNC router. I've cut steel, aluminum, shields and V-threads in hardwoods and softwoods like butter. After 2 years on a CNC machine and about 20 hours of non-stop work a week, I've finally killed the bottom bearing by cutting a 1.25" piece of soapstone into an awesome grooved cutting board/serving tray. The router still works fine, but there is dust. hit the camp and made it loud. After that I let it run for another year and finally replaced it with a new one and plan on sending it in for a bearing change. At $149, you can't beat this router. I've blown several Craftsman routers in about a month, the previous Porter cable lasted about a year. I decided to try this Bosch 1617 and it did not disappoint. Yes, you have to use 2 keys to change bits, but from my experience with other routers that have a push pin lock and key, the push pin lock usually breaks after a short while, and then you have to still use two keys. This could benefit from the spindle lock used in the 1619evs (and I have one too) but the 2 hour key system has never been a problem for me. Also goes well with the wooden handle. I agree with those who argue that the switch is in the wrong place, but all routers of this type PC, Craftsman, Hitachi, etc. have a switch in the same place. Buy a plunge router if you need trigger switch control.

Pros
  • Comfortable
Cons
  • Only available in black