Bosch Router Table Delivers Ease of Use and Stability
Bosch now has a solution for quick and stable on-the-go woodworking. The Bosch Portable Benchtop Router Table (model RA1141) has all the tools available to turn out a quality product while still keeping itself highly portable. It pulls this off through a combination of quick router detachment, and easy fold-and-go table legs.
Editor’s Note: Check out our guide on how to use a router table for some excellent advice, tips, and techniques.
Bosch On the Go
Bosch looks to have found the right mix of stability and portability with this router table. The table features an Easy Click router mounting system. It lets your compatible router attach and detach in seconds and doesn’t require any leveling—or tools—once set up.
A smooth laminated MDF top and adjustable MDF faceplates add additional support. Tall fences handle taller stock. You also get a couple of feather boards that offer additional control when feeding the workpiece along the fence. A starter pin and guard help support your curved workpieces while allowing for better control. Finally, a bit height gauge helps with setting a precise depth of cut.
The RA1141 does not accept any template guides.
Here’s an Abridged List of Compatible Routers:
- Bosch – 1617-Series Routers (in fixed base only)
- Craftsman – 17508, 17511, 17528, 17533, 17541, 17542, 26620, 26834, 28190, and 73277 Routers
- DeWalt – DW616 and DW618 Routers (in fixed base only)
- Hitachi – M12VC Routers
- Makita – RF1100 and RF1101 Routers
- Milwaukee – 5615 and 5616 Routers
- Porter-Cable – 690-Series and 892-895-Series Routers (in fixed bases only) and 7529 Plunge Router
- Ryobi – R163K Router
- Skil – 1810, 1815, 1820 and 1825 Routers
Obviously, you use router tables with larger routers, so don’t expect your Bosch Colt palm router to work with this system. You also can’t (apparently) use it with the largest Bosch 1619EVS router due to its plunge base.
Dust Collection
The system works with common 2-1/2 in. vacuum hoses that attach directly to the Bosch RA1141 router table. The VAC004 vacuum hose adapter allows compatibility with 35 mm hoses such as Bosch 35 hoses.
Who Would Use This Router Table?
As with any new tool, we try to ask the question: Who would use it? For those of you not setting your sights on an automatic self-guiding router, a router table may fit the bill.
You’d want to pick up this router table if you had a concern with portability. Most router tables are rather cumbersome—even benchtop models. While the Bosch Benchtop Router Table comes preassembled, it’s the folding legs that allow for quick setup and easy storage.
And speaking of storage, this table includes onboard storage for holding several router bits and accessories. It features mounting points should you want to secure it to a table, but then you’d likely want to opt for a more rigid cabinet-style table.
The Bosch Portable Benchtop Router Table retails for around $155. It comes with Bosch’s 1-year limited warranty.
Bosch Portable Benchtop Router Table Specs
- Model: Bosch RA1141
- Amperage: 15A
- Depth: 16-1/2″
- Dust Collection: Yes
- Height: 14.5″
- Length: 16.5″
- Max Fence Opening: 3-5/8″
- Max Throat Opening: 3-1/4″
- Weight: 33 lbs
- Width: 26″
- Working Length: 26″
- Works with Bosch 1617-Series routers, as well as some Craftsman, DeWalt, Hitachi, Makita, Milwaukee, Porter-Cable, Ryobi, and Skil routers
- Warranty: Limited 1-year/3-year with Provantage
