I need to get a trim router to supplement my 1-1/2hp Milwaukee. Borrowed a friend’s Bosch 1608 which I like just fine. Only complaint would be that height adjustment not too smooth and tightening system not too accurate.
I would like to hear about others’ choices and/or reasons not to buy a Bosch.
thanks
Danny
Edited 10/12/2005 10:39 am ET by overdrive
Replies
Keep the PC 310 within its operating window and it will meet your demands.
That is, using it like a 5615 will send it to the cleaners.
Hi Overdrive,
I have a P-C 310 with one of Pat Warners lexan bases installed, it's a really nice light duty router. My only complaint is the stock height locking knob is really hard to tighten, I believe that Pat recommended replacing the knob with a lever from Reid Tool, just haven gotten around to it yet.
Best of luck
Almost everything you do with a laminate router requires fine tuning the depth setting, only the PC-310 allows smooth and precise adjustments. All of the other machines seem to be intentionally designed to be impossible to set properly. I've been told that the 310 is about the only machine you will see used in commercial laminate shops.
John W.
The new Bosch PR20EVS Colt is a very nice router with the power matching (maybe more than matching) that of the most powerful trim routers. It is like the body grip in its design approach and that is what attracted me to it. It took a few operations of the thumbwheel and course adjustments to make it work smoothly, but I have used it for close trimming work, such as inlays with very nice results. I would like it to have a little less vibration, but other than that, I think it is great
I work in a commercial shop where we do a lot of laminate work. The PC 310, for the money is about the best we've used. Until they inevitably get dropped or kicked onto the floor. The bases and plastic parts around the switch break real easy when this happens. I suppose its unfair critiscim, but shhh happens in the heat of the shop.
We've used a lot of other brands- DeWalt, Ryobi (total junk) lasted 30 mins., the square base type PC's, makita, etc., all below average. Haven't tried the newer Rigid or the Bosch-yet. It would be great if someone made a trimmer under $150 that actually could stand-up to real world usage, I haven't found it yet.
A friend with this model (PC 310) had the same complaint and had just ordered and received the same parts which he had yet to replace. The adjustment is similar to my 30 year old Milwaukee which is easy and accurate.I'm leaning toward the newer variable speed Bosch, but need to get my hands on one first.
Edited 10/13/2005 10:15 pm ET by overdrive
I have used my Hitachi trim router for the same purpose you intend. I have no complaints. I have not tried any others so cannot comment. I bought the Hitachi because it came with more attachments, was reasonably priced and fit my hand well. I have had it for 7yrs and would buy another. Raising and lowering is not smooth but the Hitachi stays at the depth I set it at, holds bits without loosening and has good balance. The attachments that came with it fit well and function as designed.
Ed
I would definitely suggest taking a look at the Bosch PR20EVS Colt before you buy. It's pretty new, so opinions may be scarce, but it looks pretty darned good.
forestgirl -- you can take the girl out of the forest, but you can't take the forest out of the girl ;-)
Another proud member of the "I Rocked With ToolDoc Club" .... :>)
Danny - I also have the Bosch 1608K and must totally agree with your assessment of the height adjustment. I do like all the bases though.
Steve
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