Bosch 1617EVSPK 12 Amp 2-1/4-Horsepower Plunge and Fixed Base Variable Speed Router Kit with 1/4-Inch and 1/2-Inch Collets

by Bosch

Product Description

Amazon.com Product Description

Handle a broad range of routing applications with the versatile Bosch 1617EVSPK Plunge and Fixed-Base Variable-Speed Router Kit. This router kit includes a powerful motor with advanced speed control technology, precision bases, and plenty of advanced features to help get a variety of jobs done quickly and accurately.

The Bosch 1617EVSPK Plunge and Fixed-Base Variable-Speed Router Kit includes: EVS Motor (16176) Plunge base (RA1166) Fixed base (RA1161) Fixed base chip shield Plunge base chip shield 1/2-inch and 1/4-inch self-releasing collet chucks Comfortable forged 16-mm and 24-mm bit-change wrenches T-handle hex height-adjustment wrench Rugged carrying case

Both bases feature the Bosch Precision Centering Design for accuracy and control.View larger.

Powerful, Variable-Speed Motor with Soft Start
Take care of even tough routing jobs with the powerful 2.25 HP/12 Amp motor and its versatile speed range of 8,000 to 25,000 RPM. The variable speed dial allows you to set the optimal speed for the routing task and material. And with built-in Constant Response Circuitry, your router will maintain a constant speed throughout the cut, so you get cleaner, more accurate results.

With the integrated soft-start feature, the motor reduces torque upon start-up for a much smoother transition and easier handling on your part.

Accurate Fixed and Plunge Base Cuts
This versatile kit provides all the components necessary for fixed-depth routing and plunge routing, as well. Microfine bit depth adjustment systems 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.

Both bases also feature the Bosch Precision Centering Design, which allows the bit to be centered with the subbase or optional template guides (sold separately). This makes it easier than ever to keep the bit on the intended cutting-line when using guidance devices such as jigs, templates, or dovetail fixtures.

Both of the included bases, fixed and plunge, feature quick clamp systems for quick tool-free conversions, so moving the motor between the two bases takes only seconds and requires no tools. The plunge base features soft grip handles for easier operation, and the fixed base includes threaded holes for mounting it to router tables. The fixed base's advanced bit height adjustment system allows you to conveniently adjust the bit height from above the router table.

Rugged Design for Increased Durability
The Bosch 1617EVSPK Plunge and Fixed-Base Router Kit is durable and built for years of use. The motor housing and bases are now made of aluminum, and the power switch is now completely dust-sealed for added durability. The rugged carrying case keeps all of the components protected. This routing system is backed by a one-year limited warranty, 30-day money back guarantee, and one-year service protection plan.

What's in the Box
EVS Motor (16176), plunge base (RA1166), fixed base (RA1161), fixed base chip shield, plunge base chip shield, 1/2-inch and 1/4-inch self-releasing collet chucks, comfortable forged 16-mm and 24-mm bit change wrenches, T-handle hex-height adjustment wrench, and rugged carrying case.

The motor's speed range features Constant Response Circuitry for clean, consistent results.View larger.

Amazon.com

Bosch's 1617EVSPK is a strong entry in the 2-1/4-horsepower combination router market. Solid construction makes the Bosch durable and lightweight, while special touches, such as wooden handles on the fixed base and contoured, soft-grip handles on the plunge base, add to the comfort of users and give the tool a look of distinction lacking in some of its competitors. Of course, looks are only skin deep, and this router has plenty to offer below the surface as well. At its heart, a powerful 12 amp, 2-1/4-horsepower motor delivers consistent results at variable speeds of 8,000 to 25,000 rpm. The exclusive precision centering design ensures bits are perfectly centered in the router base, a handy feature for maintaining accurate cut lines. A wider-than-average base opening provides superior visibility and allows the Bosch to accept larger bits, while a micro bit-depth adjustment system makes fine-tuning fast and easy. 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. --Carl Thress

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Product Details

Product Manual [1.19mb PDF]

• Product Dimensions: 6.2 x 19.5 x 14.5 inches ; 18.2 pounds
• Shipping Weight: 21 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Shipping: This item is also available for shipping to select countries outside the U.S.
• Shipping Advisory: This item must be shipped separately from other items in your order. Additional shipping charges will not apply.
• ASIN: B00005RHPD
• California residents: Click here for Proposition 65 warning.
• Item model number: 1617EVSPK
• Average Customer Review: 4.1 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (179 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #956 in Home Improvement (See Top 100 in Home Improvement)
  • #1 in Home Improvement > Power & Hand Tools > Power Tools > Routers

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

195 of 198 people found the following review helpful:

2.0 out of 5 stars Beware - high tolerance operations a challenge for this router, August 22, 2005

By 

AmazonBuyer "JDS" (New York, NY) - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Bosch 1617EVSPK 12 Amp 2-1/4-Horsepower Plunge and Fixed Base Variable Speed Router Kit with 1/4-Inch and 1/2-Inch Collets (Tools & Home Improvement)

I bought the 1617EVSPK 2-1/4HP bosch combo router some 9 months ago and have logged a lot of hours on the machine. Overall I echo the positive comments that other users have provided re: power, versatility, ease of use, etc. There are two areas where the unit falls down, however. First is the base plate; although it is allegedly centered at factory, if you are doing close tolerance work (eg using a leigh dovetail jig) you will probably need to buy a base center and reset the base plate. This is a pain but at least it is fixable. A far more serious problem is the fact that the router seems to have developed a side to side wobble when used in plunge mode, so that the bit swings a fraction from side to side when plunging, despite my carefully applying pressure equally on both handles. Not a problem for many applications, as the swing is very small, but when close tolerances are a must (eg routing mortises) it is hard to achieve. I cut several dozen floating tenon mortises this weekend using a new spiral upcut bit, and half the mortises were 1/32"-1/16" oversized, meaning I now have a lot more stock in my scrap bin. The unit does not appear to have any way to tighten up the plunge mechanism. This far more serious flaw makes it difficult to use for high end woodworking.

210 of 218 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Best router for anyone, great quality, good price., November 5, 2003

By 

Phill "alienspine" (Oceanside, CA United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Bosch 1617EVSPK 12 Amp 2-1/4-Horsepower Plunge and Fixed Base Variable Speed Router Kit with 1/4-Inch and 1/2-Inch Collets (Tools & Home Improvement)

Bought this router after a week of research. Looked at porter cable, dewalt, and this bosch router. determined through reviews on this site as well as other reviews that the bosch was the router that I wanted after the first day, but decided to wait and read through some more reviews. Saw the Bosch 1617 router combo at Lowe's for 219, but it was not the 1617evspk, which comes with a free edge guide/ circle cutter and also lists as 2 hp, may be the same motor, but I want the newer, updated router . Looked on amazon and found this router, the Bosch 1617EVSPK which came with a edge guide/circle cutter and the router mat for $219.00. I agree with another buyer who said that this router does very professional work and can make anyone look like they know what they are doing. Even my wife who has never used a router was able to use this with ease. It is very easy to switch between bases, clean design.
The included cast wrenches for changing bits are sign of a better quality router

and the edge guide/circle cutter is a must and a cinch to use. I like that it comes with functional carrying case that holds everything but the edge guide, even has places for most commonly used bits of both shank sizes. A major plus is depth adjustment that stays the same even after switching back and forth between bases; you don't have to readjust and hope its the same depth. The router has a feel of solid design, cuts soft and hard woods like butter, no vibration and is quite. Slow start is a must to prevent damage when kicking on. I read complaints of the switch location, but has not really bothered me and I don't know of a better place to put the switch where it would not create other problems. There is not really a better place to put the switch that would not interfere and either get dirty or turn the unit off/on accidentally. Flat top makes for easy bit changes and ensures that router does not turn itself on for those of us who do not unplug the unit (bad habit). The real wood handles make for a solid feel, instead of hollow plastic. The plunge base has an easy to reach lock that allows user to keep both hands on the router and minimize mistakes. A couple of thoughts on why I bought this router. When buying a router, could have bought 2 routers, 1 plunge and 1 fixed base, would have costed me the same for equal power, but not equal quality, and may need to buy separate accessories for both routers, like dust kit, edge guides, etc. I also figured I would spend at least $120 for a decent low end router, but would have to replace it after 4 years and would not have all the functions that I wanted. Rationalized that since getting the Edge guide for free, normally $40, took the price down; since most routers do not come with an edge guide or a circle cutter, especially one tool that does both. Figured that all the wood work that I would do, and plan to do, would only like to make the purchase once and have a nice router to boot, so I might as well buy it right the first time. I am not a hardcore woodworker, but routing is something that cannot be done by hand and the few times that I may use it you need the right equipment; it's value is immeasureable. There is nothing worse than having bad tools or tools that are a hassle to use. This router is something that I may keep till I get really old and pass off to my kids, and will still be a great tool then. Simply could not waste my time and patience with a lesser quality router. Bosch really put a lot of time into designing this router and its carefull placement of things, even the switch. Free shipping through amazon and no tax saved even more than buying from store, another plus. Have recommended this router to several friends and they have nothing but good things to say about it. If you are into woodworking, would also recommend the Bosch 1594 3-1/4-inch planer, another well designed tool that performs better than expected, only way to describe is that it literally glides over the wood surface and no sanding is needed afterwards, who could ask for more?

Update: I have ran into 2 instances of the switch not working, probably due to dust on the contacts inside the switch. Not enough to change my rating though, since all it took was a little compressed air around the switch to get it working again. The second time I had to use Electric cleaning spray, found at your Pepboys, near the brake cleaner sprays. Hopefully in future designs they seal the switch off entirely. This router is still one of my most favorite tools.

175 of 184 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars You'll love this combo kit Bosch 1617EVSPK 2HP, November 13, 2001

By 

James R. Smith "jsmithsussex" (Milwaukee wi) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Bosch 1617EVSPK 12 Amp 2-1/4-Horsepower Plunge and Fixed Base Variable Speed Router Kit with 1/4-Inch and 1/2-Inch Collets (Tools & Home Improvement)

If you were looking at getting a combo kit now is your chance to get a 2 HP unit instead of the 1.5 HP units. The softstart and self center bits work great both as a plunge router as well as a fixed base and the 2 HP soft start and mag body makes it easy to control as well as light weight.

The 2 HP unit has plenty of power to be used in a router table a nd if you can only afford one router don't skimp for a few dollars more you get more power, variable speed and the bosch 2 HP variable speed router with the micro fine adjustments.

I have had the 1617EVS fixed based for over 6 months and the extra cost to buy the plunge router attachment added up to more than this whole kit with the storage case costs.