ToolCrib.com

ReviewThis is a veritable wonderland of routing. A primo fixed-base, the plunge base and all kinds of accessories - there's nothing left for the wanting.

The router itself is at the head of its class. Speed varies from 8,000 to 25,000 rpm, and the soft-start feature makes freehand startup a smooth experience. It's plenty of horsepower for anything you feed it, whether in a table or out. Freehand, we particularly like the feel of the wood handles, as any woodworker would, but when it comes to changing bases, Bosch's proprietary tool-free clamping system is simply the best. We also like this model because depth adjustments don't require turning the motor in the base - always a dicey proposition when mounted in a table. The plunge base is a pleasure to use, too, with smooth action and easy controls. If Bosch said they'd make any changes we wanted, the only thing we would ask is that the switch be dust-sealed. Aside from that, it's pretty much the perfect router.

The accessories are great to have right out of the box; usually, you'll buy the router and add goodies as you need them. Instead, you're already set up with an edge guide, three template guides, a dust hood and depth adjustment wrench for router table use. --Kris Jensen-Van Heste

What's in the Box
Bosch 1617 router, fixed base, plunge base, ¼ and ½-inch collets, edge guide, three template guides, dust hood, depth adjustment wrench for router table use