Hey there! Today we’re going to take a closer look at four popular router tables on the market: the BOSCH RA1171, BOSCH RA1181, SKIL RT1323-01, and SKIL SRT1039. If you’re someone who enjoys woodworking and wants to take your routing skills to the next level, then owning a router table can greatly enhance your projects. These handy devices provide a stable and secure platform for your router, allowing you to make precise and clean cuts with ease. Not only do they make your woodworking tasks easier, but they also offer a variety of additional features to enhance your overall experience. So, let’s jump right in and explore each of these router tables in detail!
The concept of router tables has been around for decades, evolving alongside the advancements in woodworking technology. These tables are designed to provide a stable working surface for your router, allowing you to guide the material to be cut or shaped with precision and control. By mounting your router under the table, you gain the advantage of working from the top, making it easier to handle small or intricate pieces of wood.
The benefits of owning a router table are numerous. Firstly, they provide a secure and stable platform that eliminates the need for handheld routing. This increases safety and allows for more accurate and consistent cuts. Secondly, router tables often come equipped with dust collection ports, which help keep your workspace cleaner and healthier. Additionally, many router tables offer built-in storage for router bits, keeping them organized and easily accessible during your woodworking projects. Lastly, router tables often have adjustable fences and inserts, allowing for precise and customized routing.
In the upcoming sections, we’ll delve into the features and specifications of the BOSCH RA1171, BOSCH RA1181, SKIL RT1323-01, and SKIL SRT1039. Each router table offers unique features and benefits, making it essential to choose the right one based on your specific needs and preferences. Let’s see which one would be the perfect fit for you!
BOSCH RA1171 Benchtop Laminated MDF Top Cabinet Style Router Table with 2 Dust Collection Ports (#CommissionsEarned)
The BOSCH RA1171 25-1/2 in. x 15-7/8 in. Benchtop Laminated MDF Top Cabinet Style Router Table is a versatile tool that is designed to enhance your woodworking projects. Whether you are a professional woodworker or a hobbyist, this router table can assist you in achieving precise and accurate cuts with ease.
There are several reasons why we consider the BOSCH RA1171 to be a standout router table. First and foremost, its cabinet-style design provides ample storage space for all your router accessories, keeping your workspace organized and clutter-free. The laminated MDF top ensures a smooth and durable surface that can withstand heavy use.
Additionally, this router table features two dust collection ports that effectively capture and remove debris, keeping your work area clean and free from sawdust. This is a significant advantage, as it not only maintains a cleaner workspace but also improves the overall quality of your cuts.
The BOSCH RA1171 router table is specifically designed to provide stability and precision when using a router. With its sturdy construction and ample workspace, this table allows you to securely mount your router and perform a wide range of woodworking tasks.
One of the key features of this router table is the adjustable fence, which enables you to make accurate and consistent cuts. The fence can be easily adjusted to accommodate different bit sizes and to provide support for larger workpieces. This ensures that you can achieve the desired results every time.
Another notable feature is the built-in dual dust collection ports, which effectively extract sawdust and debris from your workspace, preventing them from interfering with your cuts. This not only improves the accuracy of your cuts but also promotes a safer working environment.
The BOSCH RA1171 also comes with a starter pin and guard, which allow for safe and controlled routing operations. This feature is particularly useful for making curved cuts, as it provides stability and control throughout the process.
The BOSCH RA1171 router table is renowned for its exceptional quality. From the durable construction to the precision engineering, this product is built to last. The laminated MDF top not only offers a smooth and even surface but also ensures the table’s longevity. The solid build and attention to detail make this router table a reliable and long-lasting investment for any woodworker.
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Cabinet-style design for convenient storage
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Laminated MDF top for a smooth and durable surface
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Adjustable fence for precise and consistent cuts
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Dual dust collection ports for a cleaner workspace
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Starter pin and guard for safe routing operations
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Relatively large footprint, requiring sufficient workspace
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Some users may find the assembly process time-consuming
The BOSCH RA1171 25-1/2 in. x 15-7/8 in. Benchtop Laminated MDF Top Cabinet Style Router Table is a versatile and reliable tool that offers exceptional quality and performance. Its cabinet-style design, adjustable fence, dust collection ports, and safety features make it a valuable addition to any woodworking workshop. Despite its relatively large size and potential assembly time, the benefits and precision it provides make it a worthwhile investment. Whether you are a professional woodworker or a beginner, this router table is sure to enhance your woodworking projects and improve the overall quality of your cuts.
BOSCH RA1181 Benchtop Router Table 27 in x 18 in Aluminum Top with Two-Half In Vacuum Hose Port (#CommissionsEarned)
The BOSCH RA1181 Benchtop Router Table is designed to provide an extended work area for routers, ensuring durability and precision. It is ideal for individuals who frequently work with wood and need a stable and secure surface for their routing projects.
There are several reasons why we highly recommend the BOSCH RA1181 Benchtop Router Table. Firstly, its large aluminum top provides ample space for your projects, allowing you to work with ease and efficiency. The durability of the aluminum ensures that the table will last long even with heavy use.
Furthermore, the pre-drilled aluminum mounting plate is compatible with various routers, making it convenient to use with different models. It also allows for above-table height adjustment, enabling you to make quick and accurate adjustments on the go.
Another feature that sets this router table apart is its extra tall aluminum fence. With adjustable faceplates and feather boards, it maximizes precision and versatility in routing. You can easily adjust the fence according to your needs and ensure that your workpiece is securely held in place, minimizing errors and enhancing safety.
The purpose of the BOSCH RA1181 Benchtop Router Table is to provide woodworkers with a stable and reliable platform for their routing tasks. Its key features include:
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Large aluminum top: The spacious work area accommodates large workpieces and allows for smooth and efficient routing.
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Pre-drilled aluminum mounting plate: Compatible with various routers, this plate offers flexibility in router selection and enables easy above-table height adjustment.
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Extra tall aluminum fence: The adjustable faceplates and feather boards enhance precision and versatility, offering greater control and safety during routing.
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Dedicated standard dust-collection port: Equipped with a standard 2-1/2 inch vacuum hose port, this router table ensures debris-free operation, keeping your work area clean and free from sawdust.
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Easy-to-use adjustable feather boards: These attach to both the fence and table, providing additional guidance and kickback protection, ensuring a smooth and safe routing experience.
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Accessory slot: Accepts feather boards and 3/4 inch optional accessories such as a miter gauge, allowing for customization and expanded functionality.
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Storage pocket: Conveniently stores router accessories, keeping them within reach and organized for quick access during projects.
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Cord-wrap storage: The built-in cord-wrap storage neatly stores the 6-foot power cord, preventing tangling and ensuring easy setup and cleanup.
The BOSCH RA1181 Benchtop Router Table is well-built and exhibits excellent quality. The aluminum top and fence contribute to its sturdiness and durability, ensuring that it can withstand heavy use over time. The pre-drilled aluminum mounting plate adds to the table’s versatility and ease of use, allowing you to work with different router models.
The thoughtful design elements, such as the adjustable feather boards and the dedicated dust-collection port, further enhance the overall quality of the product. These features prioritize precision, safety, and cleanliness, making routing tasks more efficient and enjoyable.
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Spacious aluminum top for extended work area
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Compatible with a variety of routers
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Extra tall aluminum fence for added precision and versatility
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Easy-to-use adjustable feather boards for guidance and kickback protection
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Accessory slot for customization and expanded functionality
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Dedicated standard dust-collection port for debris-free operation
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Convenient storage pocket for router accessories
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Cord-wrap storage for hassle-free setup and cleanup
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May require additional assembly time
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No built-in router
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May be too large for small workspaces
With its durable construction, versatile features, and focus on precision, the BOSCH RA1181 Benchtop Router Table proves to be an excellent choice for woodworking enthusiasts. Whether you are a professional or a hobbyist, this router table will greatly enhance your routing projects, ensuring accuracy and ease of use.
SKIL RT1323-01 Router Table and 10Amp Fixed Base Router Kit (#CommissionsEarned)
The SKIL RT1323-01 Router Table and 10Amp Fixed Base Router Kit is designed for both amateur and professional woodworkers looking for a reliable and versatile tool for precise routing. This tool combo kit offers the convenience of a router table along with the power and control of a fixed base router.
The SKIL RT1323-01 Router Table and 10Amp Fixed Base Router Kit is a standout product in the market due to its exceptional features and performance. Its above-the-table adjustment feature allows for quick and easy depth adjustments, saving you time and effort. Additionally, the integrated bit storage ensures that your router bits are always within reach, increasing efficiency during your woodworking projects.
The purpose of the SKIL RT1323-01 Router Table and 10Amp Fixed Base Router Kit is to provide woodworkers with a comprehensive tool that enhances precision and efficiency in routing tasks. This kit includes the SKIL Router Table (SRT1039) and the SKIL 10 Amp Fixed Base Corded Router (RT1323-00).
The router table is equipped with a tall fence measuring 16 inches in height and 24 inches in width, allowing for easy handling of tall stock. It also comes with two featherboards, adjustable MDF face plates, and a starter pin and guard, all of which contribute to precise routing.
The 10 Amp Fixed Base Router features a powerful 10 Amp, 2.0 HP motor that ensures smooth and accurate routing from start to finish. Its soft start feature eliminates tool jerking and provides precise control, while the speed control allows for adjustments depending on the type of material and routing task. The live tool indicator is a helpful safety feature, indicating when the router is still running even when it appears to be switched off.
The SKIL RT1323-01 Router Table and 10Amp Fixed Base Router Kit is constructed with durability and performance in mind. The router table is made of high-quality materials, providing stability and longevity. With its sturdy construction, it can withstand heavy routing tasks without compromising accuracy.
The 10 Amp Fixed Base Router is designed to deliver consistent and reliable performance. Its powerful motor ensures smooth cuts, while the soft start feature provides a controlled and comfortable routing experience.
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Above-the-table adjustment feature for quick and easy depth adjustments.
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Integrated bit storage for convenient access to router bits.
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Aluminum mite gauge slot for added precision.
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Router clamp for secure and stable operation.
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Starter pin and guard for controlled starting points.
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Two featherboards for enhanced safety and accuracy.
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Tall fence with adjustable featherboards for handling tall stock.
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Soft start feature for smooth and controlled operation.
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Live tool indicator for added safety.
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The router table might be too large for users with limited workspace.
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Some users may find the featherboards a bit difficult to adjust.
The SKIL RT1323-01 Router Table and 10Amp Fixed Base Router Kit is an excellent choice for woodworkers who value precision and efficiency in their routing tasks. With its above-the-table adjustment, integrated bit storage, and powerful fixed base router, this tool combo kit offers the perfect solution for a wide range of woodworking projects. Despite its few drawbacks, the overall quality and performance of this product make it a reliable investment for both beginners and experienced woodworkers. So why wait? Get your SKIL RT1323-01 Router Table and 10Amp Fixed Base Router Kit today and experience the joy of precise and effortless routing!
SKIL SRT1039 Benchtop Portable Router Table with Dual Sided Integrated Bit Storage (#CommissionsEarned)
The SKIL SRT1039 Benchtop Portable Router Table with Dual Sided Integrated Bit Storage is a versatile tool designed for woodworking enthusiasts and professionals alike. It offers a stable and secure work surface for routing operations, making it ideal for tasks such as shaping edges, creating grooves, and trimming wood.
There are several reasons why we are impressed with the SKIL SRT1039 Benchtop Portable Router Table. First and foremost, its portability is a standout feature. This table can easily be transported to different job sites or stored away when not in use, making it a convenient choice for those who may need to take their router table on the go.
The built-in dual-sided integrated bit storage is another feature that sets this router table apart. It provides a dedicated space for storing router bits, ensuring they are readily accessible and organized. This eliminates the need to hunt for the right bit, saving you time and increasing efficiency during your woodworking projects.
The SKIL SRT1039 Benchtop Portable Router Table is specifically designed to enhance woodworking tasks that require routing operations. It provides a stable and secure work surface, allowing for precise and controlled cutting. With its durable construction and thoughtful design, this router table offers a range of key features to enhance your woodworking experience.
This benchtop router table features a spacious working area, providing ample room for maneuvering your material and accommodating larger pieces. The adjustable fence allows you to make accurate cuts at various angles, making it suitable for a wide range of woodworking projects.
Additionally, the integrated dual-sided bit storage system is a standout feature of this router table. It not only keeps your bits organized but also ensures they are easily accessible whenever you need them. This eliminates the hassle of rummaging through cluttered toolboxes or workbenches, allowing you to focus on your woodworking tasks without interruptions.
The SKIL SRT1039 Benchtop Portable Router Table is a well-built and sturdy tool, designed with durability in mind. The table’s surface is made from high-quality materials that provide a stable and secure work area. The adjustable fence is smooth and sturdy, ensuring precise and accurate cuts every time.
Moreover, the router table’s compact design and robust construction contribute to its overall quality. It is designed to withstand the demands of woodworking tasks, offering a reliable and long-lasting tool that will serve you well for years to come.
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Portability allows for easy transportation and storage
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Dual-sided integrated bit storage keeps router bits organized and easily accessible
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Spacious working area accommodates larger materials
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Adjustable fence allows for accurate cuts at various angles
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Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance
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Assembly may require some time and effort
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The table’s lightweight design may result in slight vibrations during operation, especially with larger materials
The SKIL SRT1039 Benchtop Portable Router Table with Dual Sided Integrated Bit Storage is an excellent choice for woodworking enthusiasts and professionals. Its portability, dual-sided integrated bit storage, and overall quality make it a standout option in the market. With its range of features and durability, this router table is sure to enhance your woodworking tasks and provide you with years of reliable performance.
Comparison
Below is a comparison of the specifications for all four products:
BOSCH RA1171 25-1/2 in. x 15-7/8 in. Benchtop Laminated MDF Top Cabinet Style Router Table:
- Benchtop router table design
- Large aluminum top for extended work area
- Rigid aluminum mounting plate
- Extra tall aluminum fence
- Dedicated standard dust-collection port
- Easy-to-use adjustable feather boards
- Accessory slot
- Storage pocket
- Cord-wrap storage
BOSCH RA1181 Benchtop Router Table 27 in. x 18 in. Aluminum Top:
- Benchtop router table design
- Large aluminum top
- Rigid aluminum mounting plate
- Extra tall aluminum fence
- Dedicated standard dust-collection port
- Easy-to-use adjustable feather boards
- Accessory slot
- Storage pocket
- Cord-wrap storage
SKIL RT1323-01 Router Table and 10Amp Fixed Base Router Kit:
- Includes SKIL Router Table (SRT1039) and SKIL 10 Amp Fixed Base Corded Router (RT1323-00)
- Above the Table Adjustment
- Integrated Bit Storage
- Aluminum Mite Gauge Slot
- Router Clamp
- Starter Pin
- Two Featherboards
- Powerful 10 Amp, 2.0 HP motor
- Soft start, speed control, and a live tool indicator
- Tall fence with adjustable featherboards
- Precision routing capabilities
SKIL SRT1039 Benchtop Portable Router Table with Dual Sided Integrated Bit Storage:
- Benchtop router table design
- Above the Table Adjustment
- Integrated Bit Storage
- Aluminum Mite Gauge Slot
- Router Clamp
- Starter Pin
- Two Featherboards
- Tall fence with adjustable featherboards
- Precision routing capabilities
Visualization
| Specification | BOSCH RA1171 | BOSCH RA1181 | SKIL RT1323-01 | SKIL SRT1039 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Benchtop design | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Top | Laminated MDF | Aluminum | – | – |
| Aluminum mounting plate | Yes | Yes | – | – |
| Extra tall aluminum fence | Yes | Yes | – | – |
| Dedicated dust-collection port | Yes | Yes | – | – |
| Adjustable feather boards | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Accessory slot | Yes | Yes | – | – |
| Storage pocket | Yes | Yes | – | Yes |
| Cord-wrap storage | Yes | Yes | – | – |
| Includes Router Table and Corded Router | – | – | Yes | – |
| Above the Table Adjustment | – | – | Yes | Yes |
| Integrated Bit Storage | – | – | Yes | Yes |
| Aluminum Mite Gauge Slot | – | – | Yes | Yes |
| Router Clamp | – | – | Yes | Yes |
| Starter Pin | – | – | Yes | Yes |
| Featherboards | – | – | Yes | Yes |
| Motor | – | – | 10 Amp, 2.0 HP | – |
| Soft start, speed control, live tool indicator | – | – | Yes | – |
| Tall fence | – | – | Yes | Yes |
| Precision routing capabilities | – | – | Yes | Yes |
Conclusion
After reviewing all four products, it is clear that each one has its strengths and drawbacks.
The BOSCH RA1171 offers a large surface area and a cabinet-style design, making it ideal for professionals or individuals who need a sturdy and versatile router table. However, the lack of a vacuum hose port may be a disadvantage for those who prioritize cleanliness and dust collection.
The BOSCH RA1181 stands out for its lightweight aluminum top and vacuum hose port, making it a good choice for hobbyists or DIY enthusiasts who value portability and easy cleanup. However, the smaller size may limit its use for larger projects.
The SKIL RT1323-01 is a great option for budget-conscious individuals who want a functional router table and router kit. However, the lower power of the router may make it less suitable for heavy-duty tasks.
The SKIL SRT1039 offers a portable and compact option for those with limited space or who need to bring their router table to different work locations. The integrated bit storage is a convenient feature. However, the smaller size may limit its suitability for larger projects.
Overall, if you are a professional or require a heavy-duty router table, the BOSCH RA1171 could be the best choice for you. For hobbyists or individuals on a budget, the SKIL RT1323-01 provides a good balance between price and functionality. If portability or space-saving is a priority, the SKIL SRT1039 stands out.
No matter which product you choose, it is important to consider your specific needs, budget, and the types of projects you will be working on. By doing so, you can make an informed decision that will meet your requirements and enhance your woodworking experience.
