Bosch Cabinet Style Router Table RA1171 Review

No one can deny that the best woodworking equipment can make a workpiece look more professional.

You must have seen that every time you use a high-quality router or a jig, the results are 10 TIMES incredible. One can surely get the piece to speak for itself!

I don’t know much about you, but this is what I have been saying from my own experience. So, no doubts about my words here, guys!

Whatever you say, if you are using suitable equipment, no one can stop you from creating the best art! After all, woodworking is a form of art, right.

In all that, one power tool that most people prefer making themselves is a router table. Hey! Hey! Wait, don’t come at me all at once! Let me finish first.

I know making your router table can save you a lot of Bucks But you should keep one thing in mind it also comes with a Long List of Cons!

Sloppy construction and times of effort, trust me, the list goes on and on!

If you are still doubtful about this big purchase, look at Bosch Cabinet Style Router Table RA1171. I am sure its easy-to-use, exciting features will throw your mind.

I think Bosch has truly outdone themselves with this one! Though, that’s what a top brand does.

It is a bit pricier than other products, but who doesn’t like the original design, right! If you look closely, all its competitive products are just its low-quality CLONES! (Yes, you can check online!)

And every single characteristic shows how you must purchase this router table for your upcoming projects!

(Who doesn’t like a competitive edge, right?)

Why should we prefer a Portable Router Table?

The thing is, I want you to know this item and its importance before moving into the product’s details and review. This way, you can understand the specs easily and choose wisely.

Technically speaking, a Router table is a piece of convenient equipment for making fast molds, accurate edges, and clean surfaces. It gives your wood a refine look, adding a touch of professionalism.

And if people say they can make it themselves, show them the list of potential issues.

So, now coming to the main topic of buying the best one in town. And what’s that best table? To know the answer to that question;

Let’s have an in-detail review of the Bosch Cabinet Style router table RA1171! (One of the best cabinet styles on the market)

Top Pick

Bosch Cabinet Style Router Table Ra1171 Review

Bosch’s new cabinet-style router table is one the best tables for serious woodworkers. It is one of the most convenient styles in the market.
So, if you are looking to get a good router table, it is the one for you. It comes with a large base table that can easily accommodate most of your workpiece.
Other than that, its compatibility with different routers is also commendable.

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About the Company (Bosch)

Bosch has been manufacturing quality power tools for years. When you search for the best power tool on the internet, the first product will always be Bosch! That’s why their products make them stand in the front line every time.

It is a US-based brand that believes in making low price products with quality as an ultimate goal. And how can we doubt a 118 old brand located in almost 100 Locations!

You can look at its manufacturing, every one of them is built with high-quality materials, and no inadequacy is acceptable. It makes its products reliable and durable. And what else do you need in a good router table, right?

And not just that, Bosch always keeps the safety of its products in mind. Even the innovation it brings to the table makes it a sucker in the market. (Take the example of Application Specific Integrated Circuit).

So, get ready to use one of the best TOOLS ever made!

Overview of Bosch Cabinet Style Router Table RA1171

This sturdy table has a lot of hype because of its durable build. It has an MDF skeleton. (Good for a benchtop router table). And all other metal construction makes it a very effective power tool.

It comes with a large base table that can easily accommodate most of your workpiece. Other than that, its compatibility with different routers is also commendable. (No need to buy a new one now!)

Not to forget its great fence and cabinet keeping down all the dust! The dust collection works well, but the remaining stays collected with the cabinet.

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What do you get in the Package?

With Bosch’s router table, you will get other features as well. Let’s have a quick view of them!

Two Feather Boards

Help in keeping the wood piece in place. You can easily mount them either vertically or horizontally.

Plastic Bit Guard:

Help in keeping your fingers safe from the bit. They also protect against the outburst of wood when in process.

Three Insert Rings:

Help the wood piece stay close to the bit.

Two Hex Keys:

Help in constructing the router table and adjusting the height of the router bit.

Extra Hardware:

It includes all the hardware needed to mount the router.

Features of the Product

Here are some of the exciting features.

Compatibility of Routers:

Undeniably, the best part is its compatibility with routers. You don’t need to go and find a specific Bosch router to use with it. You just need a router, attach it underneath the table and secure it with the clamp.

And if you are still doubtful about which one to use, you can look at the router guide on Bosch’s website.

After that, you can safely lock them with screws.

Most people say it is their favorite thing on the table. And how could it not be, right!

Large Durable Table:

Bosch comes with a large 25 inches table. It has a laminated MDF construction for extra protection.

It is large enough to work with any workpiece. Even if you are working on your client’s furniture, it will make your work so much easier.

This way, you get more precision and accuracy in your work. And yes, the smooth surface contributes a lot to it.

Dust Collection:

When you are working with wood, scrapes, and dust are inevitable. They can get stuck in grooves and cause uneven cutting. For this, most router tables come with a dust collection system.

Here, RA1171 has one of the most efficiently working dust collection systems. And if you find some of it left, don’t worry, as your cabinet will catch all of it. (That’s a perk of having two dust ports!). With a 2-1/2 inch vacuum hose, your vacuum will suck every last piece!

Above the Table Adjustments:

One of the unique features to get in any router table is the above-the-table bit adjustment. With RA1171, you can fix the router underneath the table (fully secured in the cabinet) and adjust the bit height as per your need. And it is not complex at all, rotate the hex key, and you are good to go! The hex key is available with the table.

You can also adjust from under, as it is quicker and immediate.

Availability of Two Feather boards:

One of the features that help in giving perfection is feather boards. And with RA1171, you will get two of these adjustable boards. They are easy to use and can very well save your piece from the thrust of your router.

You can either use both vertically or take advantage of one vertical and one horizontal hold.

They come with highly-tight knobs. So, no need to worry about anything! Though, some users are not big fans of those feather boards.

Taller Fence:

Most of the time, you see issues with fences. They are either too short or sloppy. And if you are a woodworker, you know how a good one is a game-changer. So, with Bosch, you get a tall and durable fence that comes with not just one but TWO faceplates.

These MDF faceplates are very easy to adjust and can make your

And not just that, its aluminum built, and width maximizes its precision to a great degree!

Complete Package:

We know that a complete package is the only way to save ourselves from the hectic assembly of a router table. Though, they are easy to set up compared to DIY router tables. Still, they need care and vigilance when assembling each part. It can be complex if you don’t have background knowledge and proper tools.

With RA1171, you get everything needed to make the most stable router table on the market!

Accessory Slot:

Router tables with an accessory slot can create a huge difference. So, with Bosch, you get a 3/4 inches slot that can adjust anything from miter gauge to feather boards.

So, if you want a round cut or fix guidance, RA1171 is here for you!

PROS

Durable Body:

With a large MDF table, you get to have the durability you look for in a router table. Other than that, the bits and blades are all certified and give maximum reliability. Even the overall cabinet-style build of the router base is impressive.

Smooth Table:

The smooth laminated table gives your wood pieces stability. It is the best way of having the best cuts that won’t look uneven.

Cabinet Style Design:

Cabinet-style design is very accessible for workers. You can store as much as you want. And your cords and router are all perfectly hidden as well. One handy tip; keep all the extras separately in plastic bags with labels!

No Mess:

Yes, you will cut all your beautiful designs without making a mess. With this incredible dust collection system, you can have a clean, hollow cut.

And the best part is those two dust ports that will make work ten times more efficient. Now, you can work with complete ease and finish pieces on time!

All Essentials Available:

RA1171 comes with all the things you need to work. From effortless assembly to versatile usage, there is everything for easy working. Even the pins to tighten the screws come with the box!

Other than that, you get a pin to have a free-hand cut of your like.

Great Fence:

The fence of this router is an incredible advantage for the overall working. It is durable and provides the perfect strength to get appropriate cuts. I guess RA1171 has one of the best fences among its competitors.

CONS

Not Refined Edges:

If you look closely, you’ll find out how sharp and uneven the edges are on this table. First, I didn’t notice. But when my cord started to get tears after a few hours, something definitely seemed fishy. So, after a bit of digging, I found the con and sanded it away!

Feather Boards Design:

Feather boards don’t come in traditional design, and most people are not taking it positively. They seem a little off and more prone to make mistakes. Bosch should rework this area and get better feather boards next time.

How to Get the Best out of the Product?

If you want your Bosch RA1181 portable router table to work to its full potential, then make sure you do the following steps:

Make sure you unplug the router before changing the bit.
Make sure you keep 1/4 of your shank exposed. It will keep it tight in the collet.
Always keep your bit guarded.
Make sure you wear safety glasses to have a better view and ultimately better results.
Hearing protection will also help you like the safety glasses.
Always move your workpieces from right to left.
When working with a piloted bit, go counterclockwise.
Make sure your workpiece positions never between the bit and the fence.

Who is the Target Audience?

Every product has a specific range and a target audience. Most router tables have no professional limit, but some still specify the target audience.

Like here, I’d say, keeping its features in mind, it is basically for woodworkers going through an experimental phase of cuts and grooves. And just that, serious ones can also join in.

Though, professionals may find it a bit inconvenient because of a few features.

If you are trying to save a few bucks, this one is for you!

Our Experience with the Product:

We got this extensive review based on our experience. And to be honest, we didn’t cut slack on this one. So you can get the just evaluation of the Bosch Cabinet Style Router Table RA1171.

First, our impression of the router table was super positive because of the brand name. It was very nicely built with all the features to make my woodworking easy and efficient. It came with handy tools and accessories that no one can deny is a Treat.
With a cabinet-style table, it gets hard to open and close the door for every adjustment. So, I love how here we get an above-the-table adjustment. It is easy and quick. And it was something that I personally prefer in any router table and got with this one. It was for sure a plus point.
Okay, so when we started assembling the table, we found it pretty easy and not so much of a fuss. It didn’t take a lot of time either. (Maybe a Maximum of 20 to 30 minutes). One thing is that, if you are a beginner, it can take you more than that. So be ready for that.
The thing I don’t like about the router table is its plug-ins. They are not well-arranged. So, I had to add a few things to arrange all the wires. If you can do that, you are good to go. And yes, a little sanding of edges is one of the other things to make it all work perfectly.
And lastly, our experience with the price is appreciable! With this budget, the features are extraordinary and simply impressive. For all the serious woodworkers out there, it is the best option for you. Where can you get such an inclusive item for around $200!

Other People Comments:

Let’s look at other people’s reviews on Bosch RA1171 cabinet-style Router Table.

One satisfied customer showed his pleasure on Amazon, quoting, “THIS table made me fall in love with my router!”
Many customers from Uk complained about it being only supportive of 110V. So, it is just for the US market.
Most people appreciated how “durable” and “portable” it is for growing workers.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ):

What is the approx. weight of this router table?

It is lightweight with a weight of just 35 lbs.

Is Bosch's RA1171 router table compatible with a 120 V switch?

Yes, you can use it with a 120 V switch.

Is RA1171 more durable than RA1181?

If we look at the lower construction, plastic legs are less durable than a cabinet.

Conclusion:

In the end, I will say that you don’t need to rush your choices. Always compare other products and get the one that covers your needs the most. (Like if you are a professional, this may not be the one for you)

You don’t need to run after features or prices. Go for one that offers the maximum deal. (Side Note; Most people say Bosch offers the best value) Who can After all deny the power of a top brand, right!

And if Bosch Cabinet Style Router Table RA1171 is the one giving you the value you need, don’t hesitate to get this one now.

Just remember, never miss a beat when getting the best!