After a decade of using the 1617, I find it to still be at the top of my list in terms of overall value, and dependability.
I feel that a few things could use updating, and innovation.
1) CORDLESS OPTION!!! Lol. Now that Bosch batteries have improved, I'd love to see a cordless version that utilizes the batteries that have. Also, provide them a way to be cooled, like have the air intake pass over the batteries.
2) Collett Design- I'm constantly fighting my collets. Whether they get stuck in the router, or the collets have a spot where after you loosen them with a wrench, you go a few turns, and you have to get the wrenches back out because it hits a certain spot that's a hair out of line. I've tried every old trick in book for collets, but every bosch I use has the same issue.... but it's a very minute issue.
All in all, it's a great router, and the best value in the business.
"This review was submitted as an entry for a review sweepstakes.”
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Description
Description
Bosch 1617 Description
Often copied but never equaled, the Bosch 1617 revolutionized the mid-size fixed-base router category: designed for a broad range of routing applications. The versatile 1617 was the first router in its class to have a 2.0 (Max.) horsepower rating, linear depth adjustment and numerous other routing innovations the powerful 11 Amp motor with its rated speed of 25,000 RPM handles tough routing jobs. The unit’s RA1161 fixed base features a quick-clamp system for fast, tool-free depth adjustments, and its linear microfine bit-depth adjustment system allows for accurate depth adjustment over the depth range of 1-5/8 inch. because the motor isn’t rotated during depth adjustment, (as it is on dated depth adjustment systems on many older routers), the horizontal location of the bit within the subwoofer or optional Templet guides remains unchanged. Moreover, if necessary, this precision centering design allows the sub-base or optional template guides to be re-centered around the bit, making it easy to keep the bit on the intended cutting-line when using guidance devices such as jigs and templates. For router table usage, the RA1161 includes threaded table-mounting holes in both the Bosch 4-hole pattern and the common 3-hole pattern. The base’s advanced bit-height adjustment system allows you to conveniently adjust the bit height from above the router table. Other innovations include the ability to have the switch located on either the right or left side of the tool. The switch stays in the same location during depth adjustment, not moving to a new location every time the depth is changed. The 1617 is durable and built for years of use. The motor housing and bases are made of aluminum, and the power switch is now completely dust-sealed. The router is backed by a 1-year limited warranty, 30-day money-back guarantee, and 1-year service protection plan.
Bosch 1617 Includes
- (1) Router
- (1) 1/4" S. R. Collet Chuck - 2 610 906 283
- (1) 1/2" S. R. Collet Chuck - 2 610 906 284
- (1) 16mm Shaft Wrench - 2 610 991 388
- (1) 24mm Collet Nut Wrench - 2 610 992 417
- (1) Chip Shield-- 2 610 991 389
- (1) Fixed Base (RA1161)
Bosch 1617 Features
- 2 HP/11 Amp motor 25,000 RPM
- Precision centering design - makes it easy to keep bit on intended outline when using jigs, templates, dovetail fixtures and similar guidance devices
- Macro and microfine bit depth adjustment system with resettable depth indicator - for fast, precise depth adjustment
- Large 3-3/4 In. base opening plus 2 In. subwoofer opening - accepts large bits
- Right or left switch location - for user preference and consistency (motor does not rotate during depth adjustment)
- One-piece armature shaft - for accuracy and long bit shank capacity
- 10 Ft. flexible rubber cord
- Classic hardwood handles - for comfort and beauty
- Now includes RA1161 fixed-base with system for adjusting bit height from above a router table
- T-handle adjustment wrench sold separately
- Fixed base has threaded holes for mounting to router table positioned in common 3-hole pattern
- Power switch - now includes dust-sealed power switch
- Compatible with optional RA1129 Template Guide Adapter Set – for easy change of Bosch quick-release template guides and common threaded template guides; includes RA1126 Template Guide Adapter and RA1100 Interface for Threaded Template Guides
Bosch 1617 Specifications
| Base Diameter | 6" |
| Amperage | 11A |
| Base Opening | 3-3/4" |
| Collet Capacity | 1/4", 3/8", 1/2", 8 mm |
| Dust Collection | No |
| Fixed-Base Depth Range | 1-5/8" |
| No Load RPM | 25000 |
| Rating | 120V AC |
| Subbase Opening | 2" |
| Voltage | 120V |
| Horsepower | 2 |
| Variable Speed | Yes |
| Cord Length | 10" |
| Housing Material | Aluminun |
| Lock-On Switch | Yes |
| Spindle Lock | No |
| Switch Type | Toggle On-Off Switch |
| Depth Capacity | 0.5" |
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18 Ratings
1-10 of 18 Reviews
Rated 5 out of 5
Sep 2, 2022
Simply the best, but it could use an upgrade.
Rated 5 out of 5
Aug 26, 2022
Perfect for router tab6
Fits my table very well and has adjustments for height easily reachable.
Rated 5 out of 5
Aug 25, 2022
My most used power tool!
I bought my 1617 with the extra plunge base. It was a great value! This is the most accurate router I've ever used. The depth adjustment is smooth and always spot on with regard to the measurement of the cut. I always double check with a ruler and that double check always matches the router. It is well balanced, has comfortable handles and the switch is in a convenient and logical location.
The plunge base makes using the 1617 with a router table incredibly easy. Adjustments are simple and accurate and swapping the mother between bases is very easy.
The collet and wrenches are easy to access and make changing bits a breeze.
I'm incredibly happy with my 1617 and can't imagine using another router.
The plunge base makes using the 1617 with a router table incredibly easy. Adjustments are simple and accurate and swapping the mother between bases is very easy.
The collet and wrenches are easy to access and make changing bits a breeze.
I'm incredibly happy with my 1617 and can't imagine using another router.
Rated 5 out of 5
Aug 25, 2022
My 12 Year Old Non-Working Router Made New!
I am impressed with the repair of my 12 year old router made working and new.
Rated 5 out of 5
Aug 25, 2022
Ahead of its class.
Lots of features, 3 different collets available and above router table top adjustments. This router table accomplishes all my needs.
Rated 5 out of 5
Jul 17, 2021
Excellent router.
Purchased this a year ago to mount under my table saw . Use it as a quick shaper. Excellent tool. (I own several Bosch tools, some more than 20 years old, which are used regularly. Bosch is a quality tool. Well worth the purchase price for a contractor
Rated 5 out of 5
Jul 16, 2021
Lightweight, easy to control, strong motor
I reviewed many websites and decided your products would suit me best. So glad I did.
Rated 5 out of 5
Jul 13, 2021
Sexy!
Been wanting a new router for a while now. Ive been using my fathers old Black and Decker router that I inherited as a 3rd generation wood wooker. But it finaly started failing. SO I Went out to Lowes and picked up my dream router and this baby is smooth, powerful and sexy georgous with the wood handles. Now Dads old router can go up on the wall as a tribute to all the great things he made and for teaching me the love of quality both in tools and craftsmanship. Thanks Dad! and thank you Bosch!
Rated 5 out of 5
Jul 13, 2021
Nothing but pleased
I have the 1617 and I have been nothing but pleased with its performance. Handles all my woodworking needs and customer service is excellent.
Rated 4 out of 5
Jun 22, 2021
Work Horse
Love this thing, used it for quite a bit of slabbing. Recently stopped working however, I don’t think it’s anything major, I just have not had the time to investigate yet.
