Pros
Easy assembly
Solid metal top and mounting plate
Good dust extraction
Outlet for shop vac
Flexibility with various router models
Robust hardware
Additional shims included
Efficient for small-shop woodworkers
Excellent customer service
Good value for the price
Useful features like featherboards and fence
Compact and portable
Solid and sturdy construction
Cons
Not a full-sized router table
Plastic base and fascia
Some users found the top slightly warped
Main Product Advantages
9 Ease of Assembly
The assembly of the BOSCH RA1181 Benchtop Router Table is reported to be straightforward and uncomplicated by most users, although it requires some attention to detail and time. Tools like a ratchet with an allen-head socket can expedite the process.
9 Support and Service
Bosch's customer support receives high praise, particularly for quickly replacing any defective parts such as warped tabletops.
8 Dust Collection
The dust collection feature is highly appreciated, achieving around 70% efficiency. However, adding an additional port for better dust management is recommended by some users.
8 Value for Money
The product is often praised for being a good value for the price, performing well enough for hobbyists and providing a decent set of features without breaking the bank. Replacement parts like fence faces are also not expensive.
7 Fence and Featherboard
The fence is robust and stays put during operation, although some users may find the material and the adjusting mechanism slightly cumbersome. The featherboards work well but assembling them can be a bit tricky.
7 Compatibility and Adjustments
The table has good compatibility with various router models and includes hardware for many configurations. The routing table allows for top adjustments, but not all users found this feature convenient due to dust clogging the holes or difficulty in accessing adjustment screws.
6 Tabletop Flatness
The metal tabletop's flatness is generally good, with minor deviations often below 0.004 inches, which is acceptable for woodworking. However, some users have reported moderate issues with table tops being slightly crowned or not perfectly flat.
6 Build Quality
The router table has a solid metal top but features a plastic base that some users describe as feeling less durable and somewhat flimsy, particularly around the switch fascia.
Product Review: BOSCH RA1181 Benchtop Router Table
The Bosch RA1181 bench top router table provides a large work surface for woodworking and routing. Designed to fit a variety of routers, this router table is a versatile piece of equipment that will serve as an indispensable part of any woodworking shop.
Design and Durability
The large aluminum top makes the table both durable and portable. Its robust build ensures longevity and consistent performance, making it a reliable tool for any woodworking project.
Dust Collection
Its 2 1/2 inch dust collection port offers better dust collection for a cleaner work environment. This feature is particularly beneficial for maintaining a tidy workspace and ensuring efficient operation.
Compatibility
This bench top router table is designed to work with a wide range of routers, including:
- Bosch: 1613-Series and 1619EVS Plunge Routers; 1617-Series and MRF-Series Routers (in fixed base only)
- Craftsman: Most Craftsman 1/2"-Collet 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: R161, R162, R163, RE170 and RE180 PL Routers
- Skil: 1810, 1815, 1820 and 1825 Routers
Additional Features
This bench top router table includes mounting hardware, a tall aluminum fence with adjustable MDF face plates, two out feed shims, and an aluminum router mounting plate. Additionally, the starter pin and guard for router curved work pieces are included, along with a built-in cord wrap for convenient storage and portability.
Vacuum Hose Compatibility
Common 2-1/2" vacuum hoses attach directly to the RA1181, and a vacuum hose adapter is available for 35 mm hoses, such as Bosch 35 Hoses (VAC004).
Conclusion
The Bosch RA1181 Benchtop Router Table is a highly durable and versatile tool that excels in providing a large, stable work surface for a variety of routers. Its superior dust collection, wide compatibility, and additional features make it a valuable addition to any woodworking shop.
