The Bottom Line
The Bosch Colt Variable Speed Palm Router Kit comes in three models, but the one we tested, the top-of-the-line PR20EVSNK is a very impressive unit, one of the most comfortable palm routers we've ever used. The 1.0 HP softstart, variable speed motor is responsive and the accessories that accompany the router are quite useful.
While the Colt isn't appropriate for every routing task, on woodworking projects that need a small routing job or for those who physically may not be strong enough to handle a large router, this is a terrific woodworking tool.
While the Colt isn't appropriate for every routing task, on woodworking projects that need a small routing job or for those who physically may not be strong enough to handle a large router, this is a terrific woodworking tool.
Pros
- Well-designed contoured grip area - router fits very comfortably in palm of your hand
- Small, but powerful variable-speed motor with Constant Response circuitry
- Angled cord exit keeps power cord out of the way
- Protected Finger Support Pockets for off-hand guidance of router
Cons
- Spindle Lock on motor seemed to slip, making loosening the collar difficult
- Small base means user must be extra careful not to tip router when routing edges
Description
- 1.0 HP, 5.7 Amp Softstart Motor with variable speeds from 16,000 - 35,000 RPM.
- Constant Response Circuitry maintains speed when bit is under load for consistent, even performance.
- 1/4" Shank collar accepts bits of up to 1-5/16" in diameter.
- Includes numerous accessories such as edge guide, roller/bushing guide, offset and tilt bases & underscribe attachment.
Guide Review - Bosch Colt Palm Router Kit Review
Upon opening the case of the Bosch Colt PR20EVSNK Variable Speed Palm Router Kit, we were a bit overwhelmed by the choices of attachments included with the router. After a closer inspection, we couldn't quit thinking of uses for all of the attachments on a number of different woodworking projects.
That being said, while choices of accessories are nice, none of them would really matter if the basic tool was difficult to work with. This palm router didn't disappoint; I had an absolute ball working with this router. The motor, while small at 1.0 HP & 5.7 amps, more than held it's own for the basic routing tasks I put it through. The height adjustments, whether major or minor (using the Microfine Depth Adjustment) were accurate and the depth scales (in both Standard and Metric increments) printed right on the unit were a nice touch.
Because of the small base, there isn't a lot of real estate on the bottom of the router, so I had to be very cognizant of keeping the base flat against the stock and the motor perpendicular. If the unit is allowed to tip when edge routing, the edge profile might be less than perfect. The finger support pockets for the forefinger and thumb of the off hand were a big help in this regard.
The only real issue I encountered with the router was when attempting to change bits using the Spindle Lock. The lock held the spindle securely when tightening the collet, but when attempting to loosen the collet and remove the 1/4" shank bits, the Spindle Lock consistently slipped. After numerous attempts at loosening the collet with one hand on the wrench and the other on the Spindle Lock, I resorted to clamping the Spindle Lock in place with a 4" Bessey Woodworking Clamp. With the Spindle Lock securely depressed, the collet loosened easily.
Frankly, this is the only thing that kept the Colt from a five-star rating.
That being said, while choices of accessories are nice, none of them would really matter if the basic tool was difficult to work with. This palm router didn't disappoint; I had an absolute ball working with this router. The motor, while small at 1.0 HP & 5.7 amps, more than held it's own for the basic routing tasks I put it through. The height adjustments, whether major or minor (using the Microfine Depth Adjustment) were accurate and the depth scales (in both Standard and Metric increments) printed right on the unit were a nice touch.
Because of the small base, there isn't a lot of real estate on the bottom of the router, so I had to be very cognizant of keeping the base flat against the stock and the motor perpendicular. If the unit is allowed to tip when edge routing, the edge profile might be less than perfect. The finger support pockets for the forefinger and thumb of the off hand were a big help in this regard.
The only real issue I encountered with the router was when attempting to change bits using the Spindle Lock. The lock held the spindle securely when tightening the collet, but when attempting to loosen the collet and remove the 1/4" shank bits, the Spindle Lock consistently slipped. After numerous attempts at loosening the collet with one hand on the wrench and the other on the Spindle Lock, I resorted to clamping the Spindle Lock in place with a 4" Bessey Woodworking Clamp. With the Spindle Lock securely depressed, the collet loosened easily.
Frankly, this is the only thing that kept the Colt from a five-star rating.
