BOSCH 1613AEVS 2.25 HP Electronic Plunge Router

The 1/2" and 1/4" shank adapters help because it give more flexibility in buying bits. When possible, buy 1/2" shank bits to minimize the vibration.

The variable speed is essential to control the velocity of the actual router bit cutters -- which will vary based upon the diameter of the bit itself and the RPM speed selected. Hence, for bigger diameter bits, lower RPMs are necessary. Speaking of using larger bits though, that is the only negative of this router, as a result of the opening in the base. That opening is around 2-1/2" so it makes it difficult to utilize the entire plunge distance with very large diameter bits (raise panel bits, etc.) that are bigger than the hole. It also makes it harder to change the bit and forces you to install the bit while the router is plunged. I knew if this before I bought it and still bought it over the Porter Cable 693VSPK which has a larger base opening. However, if large bits are used with the Bosch, it can be very dangerous if the plunge mechanism isn't tight.

I also use this occasionally in a router table. I suggest users that will use this router in a router table or with large diameter bits readjust the spring/plunge mechanism. I would disagree with one of the previous reviewers that said the plunge was ineffective. It is very effective when not used upside-down in a router table PROVIDED you tighten the plunge. However, by readjusting the plunge mechanism, you can make it even tighter and safer for router table use. Do a web search on how to make this adjustment, but it basically involves the loosening and repositioning of the plunge handle. It takes some trial and error...but it's worth it. Just be careful to control the plunge handle once you take off the handle screw so the handle (internally) does not detach from the end of the plunge spring completely like I did or it will turn a 10 minute task into a 25 minute task. After making this adjustment, the router's 13 lbs. of weight plus another 20-30 pounds of my pulling force weren't enough to budge the router at all in my router table.

Overall, this is my favorite tool and has turned me into a Bosch loyalist. I would buy this or the Bosch 1617EVSK if I needed to buy another router. If those weren't available, I'd get the Porter Cable which is comparable in price, a little better in performance, a tad less in precision, and a little worse in comfort, but unlike the Bosch, will work with most generic router accessories.


Disappointed with this product   May 4, 2003
Tim Bloudek (Chanhassen, Minnesota United States)
7 out of 7 found this review helpful

I recently purchased this router and within days of receiving it tried it out cutting mortise and tenons. While many of the features were nice I found the accuracy and ruggedness of the router to be lacking. The plunging action was fine except that the bit will move off of perpendicular due to lack of rigidity in the plunge mechanism and the rods the router moves on. I also own a Hitachi M12V and do not have a bit of problem with its plunging accuracy. I noticed this when I was using the router on my new Leigh mortise and tenon fixture. I have since put my Hitachin back on the jig fixture and am back in business.

Other features like the soft start are very nice. The micro adjust is ok but somewhat stiff to set. I have not spent much time looking at this feature and will see if I missed something in the instruction manual. The machine works fine as a pattern cutter and I have decided to keep it since I need a router for run of the mill operations.