Full Review-

About the Brand

Bosch Router Table 

I have always been a huge Bosch fan. Let’s face it, tools are expensive and when making investments into tools, you want to know that your investments are well protected for years to come.

One tool I was always eager to get the most potential out of is my Routers. Routers are easily the most versatile tool in my workshop, giving both precision to joints, and decorative flair to workpieces that can’t be matched any other way. Add a Router Table to your Routing applications though, and you’ve increased your capabilities ten-fold. Let’s take a closer look at the updated version of Bosch’s Router Table and see what I think now that I have had a chance to use it in my shop the last couple of months.

Standout Features

Bosch Router Table Review 

The Bosch RA1141 takes their former Router Table, and one I have used for years, the RA1181 and improves its portability with a folding design for quick and easy storage whether in the shop or on the go.

A 15-Amp plug with additional outlet and safety switch to simultaneously run your dust collection and quickly disable and lock off the unit when needed.

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The EasyClick mounting system allows for quick and easy removal of the Router for Bit changes.

On-board storage allow all the accessories to be easily stored away but remain with the router table.

Bosch designed this Router Table to be set up with minimal assembly, taking a lot of the set up hassle away.

The taller fence offers more stability for the workpiece and allows more use from the router table too. The dust collection port is mounted on the fence and is easily connected to your extractor with an adapter.

A set Bit height gauge offers additional convenience on-board the router table.

The Track on the table itself offers more ability to use miter gauges and attach feather boards for more security while in use.

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Bosch includes accessories like multiple insert rings, feather boards, and additional hardware for increased applications too.

The Bosch RA1141 is compatible with a wide range of common routers, double-check the compatibility of your router before purchase. I am using mine with a Bosch 1617DEVS.

Value

Bosch Router Table Review 

My Thoughts

Bosch Router Table Review

I would 100% be lying if I didn’t fully admit that I am a huge fan of Bosch. Especially when it comes to their sanders and routers, I really don’t think many manufacturers can compete with their overall quality at their price point. The RA1141 is a great option in shops where a full-size router table isn’t possible, or when you need the flexibility to be portable. In my case, this is an ideal option for when I need to take my router on the go, but still desire the functions a router table will offer. 

My first Router table was the RA1181 from Bosch, and I have paired it with my 1617DEVS, a 2-1/4 hp router that is both powerful and smooth. Coming from that model to this one, there are a few things I really have enjoyed in this upgraded version. I think Bosch did a great job adding improvements to that model that are very easy to recognize and appreciate.

First, and likely the feature most users will appreciate, it is insanely portable. You can mount and detach your router in moments which makes it a great option for going from the shop to the job site. Plus, it folds into itself for easy travel and compact storage. This is something I like a lot for it’s small footprint when not in use. I was curious initially how this would perform stability wise with the collapsible legs, but once you have the legs locked in place, there is very little play.

Bosch also made some upgrades to its fence, with a taller height and adjustable faceplates, the router is more comfortable to use with materials beyond your typical 4/4 stock. This was a big plus for me because it also increases the router tables overall accuracy. The improved feather boards are a big plus as well and are on par with models sold separately.

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Joints like the 45-degree lock miter is relatively easy to achieve on the Bosch Router Table, while this needed some fine tuning, it was almost perfect on the first go- a credit to Bosch’s solid fences and precise tuning. 

Bosch added in the additional track on the table, something I was really excited to see. This was a win for users who are looking to use this in a shop setting too, as it will open up more capabilities that most compact router tables can’t offer. As well, the assembly  hardware has been upgraded overall and I found things like the dust collection hood, the overall fence and the fasteners to be solid and easy to adjust and keep secure. Another win for this Router Table was in the assembly. Most Router Tables are very tedious to assemble. For the most part, the RA1141 comes pre-assembled making it quick and easy to get started!

All in, if you’re looking for a Router Table that can easily go from the shop to the job site and allow your router to still be used easily outside of the table, I can’t imagine a better pick than this model from Bosch.  Bosch has a great selection of woodworking tools, and this is yet another nod to their build quality and well thought out design I have consistently seen from Bosch!