Over at Acme Tools, they have a great discount, valid on almost all Bosch tools and accessories. Today only, save $50 off $200+ Bosch tool orders.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have some shopping to do. Helloooo new Bosch router kit!
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Coupon Code: BOSCH1DAY
Deal Info(via Acme Tools)
Fine-Print
There are only a couple of exclusions: GLM 20, GCL 2-160 + LR 6, RA1171, GRL 245 HVCK, GLL 30, GLM 50 C, GLM 35, RA1181, GCL 2-160.
Deal ends 11/5/2018.
Adam
Which kit are you getting?
I really like my MRC23, but it’s not a great choice for a table because it doesn’t work with lifts. You can adjust the height from above, but it won’t bring the collet above the table like a lift can.
fred
For almost $90 less the 1617EVSPK is more cost effective for router table use – you can use it with a lift – extend it up to get at the collet nut and/or use it with a separate base for table mounting.
https://www.acmetools.com/shop/tools/bosch-router-undermount-base-ra1165
The MRC23 is perhaps nicer for handheld use – because of its switch in the handle.
I’ve heard about switch dust infiltration issues with the 1617 – but I use mine in a table with an external switch – so he router switch remains in the “on” position.
Adam
A router table is one of the next tools I’m planning to get, so thank you for the suggestions, as always.
My only worry about the 1617 in a table is that it might not have enough power, depending on what I end up wanting to make. Sadly, Bosch seems to have discontinued their 3-1/4HP (1619) router, so if I’ll have to go to another brand if I want that extra power.
fred
@Adam
A router table is not a 100% substitute for a shaper – nor does it need to be. Things will generally work fine – even with pretty big bits if you take things in passes – making successive light cuts. I have a big old PC 7539 3.25HP router that I once mounted in a shop made table. Since switching over to the much more flexible Kreg router table and Jessem lift with the 1617 – I have not had any issues – but I don’t try to hog out lots of material in one pass. The PC 7539 – about 30 years old can still cut things like oak stairway stringer dados in one pass – but I seldom need its power.
Stuart
1617EVSPK Kit
I have a Craftsman Pro-branded kit of the same, and am using the motor in my router table with a Woodpeckers lift.
At the time, I read in multiple places that the Craftsman-specific baseplate was not compatible with Bosch or other standard template accessories, and so I’ve been pining for the Bosch for years. Now with the Craftsman motor in the router table, I have the excuse to get it.
I’d be interested in exploring the potential of the MRC23 in a review, but the 1617 is what I really wanted for personal use. It’s tried and true, and from what I can tell, continues to be far more popular. I love the 1617 in its Craftsman Professional incarnation, and so the decision was pretty much made years ago.
fred
I bought a PS70BN – Cordless shears for $199.99 as a Christmas gift.
https://www.acmetools.com/shop/tools/bosch-12v-max-lithium-ion-metal-shear-ps70bn
Now I have to see if I can find a deal (or not) on a L-Boxx to package it with
Bob
I’d like to have gotten the ra1181 router table. Not offered on this deal. Oh well.
Thanks for the link, though, Stuart
Eric
I put $213.99 of qualifying purchases in my cart, successfully use the promo code, and then when I went to check out was told I qualified for free shipping, selected “free shipping” and then had a $23.40 charge for shipping. It was actually cheaper to select 3-day shipping than free shipping. Their phones are closed for the day, and I did not make an order. I did submit a website error form. Oh well.