BOSCH RA1171 Benchtop Laminated MDF Top Cabinet Style Router Table (25-1/2 in. x 15-7/8 in.)
A Must-Have for Any Woodworking Enthusiast
Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or just starting with DIY projects, a reliable router table can make all the difference. The Bosch RA1171 Cabinet-Style Router Table is a top contender, offering precision, convenience, and dust management. Let’s explore why this benchtop router table is a favorite among hobbyists and professionals alike.
Key Features of the Bosch RA1171
Laminated MDF Top for Smooth Operation
The router table features a 25-1/2” x 15-7/8” laminated MDF top, providing a flat and durable surface. This ensures smooth operation and precision, making it perfect for intricate woodworking tasks.
Cabinet-Style Design with Dust Collection
One standout feature is the cabinet-style design, which minimizes vibration and offers excellent stability. The two dust collection ports (2-1/2”) make cleanup a breeze, keeping your workspace tidy and improving air quality in your shop.
Versatile Mounting Plate
The pre-drilled mounting plate accommodates a variety of routers, making it highly versatile. It’s easy to install and provides a secure hold for precision routing.
Tall Aluminum Fence
The 4-7/8” x 25-1/8” tall aluminum fence includes adjustable MDF face plates, providing support for taller stock. This feature is invaluable for working with vertical pieces and edge-routing tasks.
Why the Bosch RA1171 Stands Out
Compact Yet Powerful
Despite its compact benchtop design, the RA1171 doesn’t compromise on performance. It’s perfect for smaller workshops or garages where space is at a premium.
Exceptional Dust Management
The dual dust collection ports are a game-changer. With one port on the fence and another in the cabinet, dust is efficiently removed during use, keeping both you and your workspace clean.
High Precision
The flat, rigid surface and adjustable fence ensure you can achieve highly accurate cuts, whether you’re trimming edges or creating grooves.
Pros
Compact and sturdy design suitable for benchtop use.
Excellent dust management with two collection ports.
Accommodates a variety of routers with pre-drilled mounting plate.
Durable MDF surface for smooth, accurate cuts.
Adjustable fence with added support for taller stock.
Cons
Assembly takes time and requires careful attention to instructions.
Not ideal for heavy-duty industrial use.
Fence adjustment can feel a bit stiff initially.
Who Should Buy the Bosch RA1171?
The Bosch RA1171 is perfect for:
DIY Enthusiasts: It’s beginner-friendly while offering enough features to grow with you.
Small Workshop Owners: Its compact design and excellent dust collection make it ideal for limited spaces.
Precision Woodworkers: If accuracy and stability are priorities, this router table delivers.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Bosch RA1171
Pair it with a reliable shop vacuum to maximize dust collection efficiency.
Use a square to fine-tune fence alignment for perfectly straight cuts.
Take time during setup to ensure the mounting plate is flush with the table for the best results.
See the Router Table in action — Watch the video: We made custom plinth blocks for several openings within our home that we cased out with painted wood (white). We used the Bosch 1617EVS 2.25 HP Electronic Fixed-Base Router attached to the BOSCH RA1171 Benchtop Router Table to create a nice clean bevel on three edges. The router bit used was the Cove Bit from the MNA Router Bit Set. Plinth blocks were cut from a custom order poplar wood board.
Final Thoughts
The Bosch RA1171 Benchtop Router Table combines thoughtful design, high precision, and excellent dust management into a compact package. Whether you’re edge-routing, trimming, or creating decorative grooves, this router table ensures professional-grade results. It’s a great investment for any woodworking enthusiast looking to step up their game.
