Last Updated on August 6, 2022 by James Walton

If you are looking for a versatile, lightweight, and portable router table, then the Bosch RA1181 router table can be a suitable option for your workbench. In this Bosch RA1181 review, we will provide you an extensive overview of this product.

The RA1181 is a benchtop router table with more than enough working space. It is quite versatile, considering it is compatible with most routers out there.

Equipped with a large aluminum top, the RA1181 is quite durable too. You also get a dust collection port with it for keeping your work-space clean.
The other features you receive include all the mounting hardware, an adjustable aluminum fence, and multiple outfeed-shims a mounting plate made of aluminum.

Bosch ra1181 Review Compatible Routers

The Bosch RA1181 is quite easy to store, even you can easily carry it around. It can accommodate different types of routers, and you can easily mount it on a workbench. With its large surface area, any work will be comfortable for you, which makes it an essential asset in any workshop. All these make it one of the most versatile routers available in the market.

Bosch Benchtop Router Table RA1181

What are the Best Features of Bosch RA1181 Benchtop Router Table?

Built and Design

The table, the router plate, and the fence – there are three major parts of Bosch ra1181 benchtop router table. The most impressive part is its 27” long by 18” wide cast aluminum table. The surface is fully flat, is designed to reduce friction while sliding the piece across the table. There is a standard ¾”-wide by 3/8”-deep miter slot, which is compatible with any common jig.

Aluminum Router Plate

Ra1181 router table features a sturdy cast aluminum router plate, which comes pre-drilled for gaining the compatibility with a wide range of routers. There are also three snap-in inserts which reduce the diameter to 1”, 2” or 2 ¾” according to your requirement.

So, if you already have your favorite one, you don’t need to buy a new plate just to upgrade your table. This is tough enough to oppose the torque created by even powerful routers like Bosch 1619EVS.

Benchtop router-table

Being a benchtop router-table means you do not need to make any extra space for it. You can easily attach it to an existing table, and you are good to go.

The RA1181 is a light router table that is easy to carry around. But do not get fooled by its lightweight as it can deliver a stable work experience as well, all while providing excellent flexibility.

Flexible router mounting

When it comes to mounting routers, the mounting plate of RA1181 is quite accepting. It is versatile and compatible with most routers.

The attachment process is straightforward too. So, no need to worry about complicated and time-consuming attachment procedures.

Adequate working space

Working space is crucial for a router table because no matter how featureful a router table is, it does not matter much if it lacks enough working space. But you do not need to worry about that for the RA1181.

The RA1181 provides more than enough working space for you. To be precise, the working area’s measurement is 27 X 18 inches, along with 18 inches of depth.

You can rest assured of the working surface’s durability as it is made out of machined aluminum. So, no matter how heavy your workload is, it is unlikely for it to bend under pressure.

Excellent stability

The included fence of the RA1181 provides excellent stability while you are working. It ensures to hold any wooden piece, big or small, in place.

With an area of 4-7/8 X 25 1/8 inches, the included fence can handle almost any type of wooden piece you throw at it. It is also made out of aluminum, giving you the added assurance of durability.

Adjustability

In terms of adjustability, the RA1181 provides quite well. It has included adjustable MDF faceplates, which allows you to adjust to any working table or any type of wood. So, do not worry about making even the smallest of adjustments for a perfect fit.

Dust-port

Working with woods is sure to produce dust and ruin your workplace. But the RA1181 has an included dust-port for getting rid of the dust and keeping your workplace clean.

Pros
  • Offers excellent value for money
  • Has a top-notch build quality
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Supports most routers
  • Easily adjustable
Cons
  • The surface can be rough for some users
  • You can get an underwhelming experience with some routers

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FAQs

Q1: Do all routers fit all router tables?

No. Routers are designed for specific router tables. Most routers are not made for use with laser-guided router tables. So if you want to put a new router into an old table, get a better router table. Routers come in various shapes and sizes, so it’s essential to check the dimensions of your router before purchasing. Additionally, some routers have specialized features that may not be compatible with other router tables.

Q2: How do you mount a router to a Bosch table?

There are a few ways to mount a router to a Bosch table. One way is to use the included mounting screws and attach the router to the table. Another way is to use a router lift. First, drill two holes through the base plate into the bottom of the router table using an electric drill or drill press.

Next, attach one screw hole on each side of the frame to the top of the table using an Allen wrench. Finally, attach the router handle to the frame with two screws.

Q3: How do you level a Bosch router table?

Whether or not you’re using the right leveler for the job, levelling a Bosch router table might be easy or challenging. For example, if your goal is to raise your router bit so that it sits above an existing work surface, but you don’t want to remove the table from its current position, then a shim and vice grip might be helpful.

Final Verdict

Reading through the Bosch RA1181 review, you already might have guessed what we think of this product. Considering the price and the features Bosch RA1181 provides, we think that it fits the right balance between an affordable price and providing a decent work experience.

It checks all the marks of a good router table. Providing features like compatibility with most routers, providing adequate working space, aluminum fences for excellent stability while working.
Also, it’s included MDF faceplates for making adjustments, and a dust-port for keeping your workplace clean.

While it has some minor downsides, we think that the positives of this product outshine its shortcomings. So, feel confident to buy this product if you are thinking of buying a router table.

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Author

James Walton is an active woodworker & maker who is passionate about all things woodworking. He loves to play with power tools and machines.

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