Bosch Router Table
When I was upgrading to a router table for my shop, I found the decision on which table to buy difficult. Which brand, what features did I need, is it really worth it to upgrade from my homemade table?
I’ve been woodworking for over 20 years. In this blog I share some of my experiences and what I found out about specific router tables.
This post will specifically review the benchtop Bosch Router Table, RA 1181.
If you already know that you would like a Bosch Router Table and you’re simply looking for the best place to purchase, I’ve found that Amazon has the best prices and usually includes free shipping on their router tables.
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Bosch Router Table Review
Overview
If you’re an occasional woodworker and just need a router table in your shop or you think you may need to take your router table to a location then the Bosch Router Table is a really good choice.
If you’re looking to do professional quality heavy duty cabinet shop work you should consider some other options. See my router table features guide here at Router Table Review.
Here are some things I really like about this router. Namely, it has a aluminum metal top. Most other portable routers have MDF. BTW, I have no problem with MDF and laminate. It will work fine. But in a portable router if you are at a location and its rains, some MDF tables can swell with moisture causing an uneven surface. With metal, all you do is wipe if off.
I also like the aluminum insert plate. It also includes insert rings for adjustment of different size bits. This is very rare on a table of this price range. Usually you have to spend a few hundred dollars more for this feature to be standard. The aluminum will stay flat and the rings will keep you safe from kickback.
The plate comes predrilled for almost all major brands of routers. But realize a very small portion of people may have to drill holes for their router to fit.
The fence is also aluminum with wood faces. Again, ideal because with aluminum the fence will stay 90 degrees and true to the table. Pretty easy adjustments here as well. The included starter pin will help you if you need to rout without the fence.
Included are shims that can be used to turn the router table into a vertical jointer. Nice way to save $3-400.
The router includes not only these shims but two feature boards that you would have to spend about $20 for with other tables.
This table is only about 30 pounds. The kreg is about 40. If you plan on moving around a lot, 10 pounds is more than it sounds.
This table is priced abound $200. If price is major for you, realize there are less expensive router tables. But as you go down in price, you very quickly lose features. You’ll probably need to upgrade in the future, ultimately spending more money in the long run.
Negatives
The base is plastic. Although I would prefer a metal base, the plastic really works fine. I would suggest that you clamp or bolt to to a sturdy table for shop use. For location work it won’t be an issue.
There is a plastic switch cover on the front of the table. It’s designed to be easy to access, but if you brush against the table while routing it can turn the router off. Ok, this is aggravating, but realize it you ever need to turn off the machine quickly for a safety issue, you won’t mind the occasional turn off.
Conclusion
For a lightweight portable router, this is a excellent router table. I think of this router as a jack of all trades. It will do most things well. Short of production work for a professional woodworker, this router will fit the needs of almost everyone else.
The metal top, aluminum insert and fence and additional parts like the feather boards make this table a great value for its low cost.
Where to Buy
I have found that Amazon consistently has the best prices on this Bosch Router Table. Well, all router tables really. Free shipping also. To see this table and all the other router tables at Amazon click the link below.
