[preferredb]

Being a newby with a few ancient power tools I am in the market for a new trim router. I know yo'all seem drawn to Bosch. Is the PR20 the recommendation? Just want to use for quick trim off when its too "gangly" (is that a word) to use my router table.
Also, off this subject also need a recommendation for a quick easy jigsaw. Again the forum seems prone to Bosch. Still the way to go?
Thanks for you input and hope to contribute and be an asset to our group in the future.

 

[Gaffboat]

Router choices are very subjective and based on individual preferences. In my case I prefer the ergonomics of the Dewalt trim router but there are many good brands to choose from. As to jig saws however, I believe the Bosch is the hands down winner every time. I didn't know how well a jig saw could work until I owned a Bosch. I cuts well, it follows a line perfectly, and it is easy to handle.

 

[honesttjohn]

Ditto what Master Oliver said!!

 

[kp91]

I have had good luck with my Rigid trim router, it was real cheap on Craigslist, and it does a nice job.

For Jig Saws, I am impressed by the 'tank' that I got from Grizzly, based on an older Bosch design. (there are rumors it uses the old machinery that made the Bosch). This saw cuts great, especially if you put the good Progressor blades from Bosch in it.

Variable-Speed Jigsaw | Grizzly Industrial

https://www.boschtools.com/us/en/boschtools-ocs/t-shank-jig-saw-blades-for-wood-t234x-30859-p/

 

[Stick486]

Being a newby with a few ancient power tools I am in the market for a new trim router. I know yo'all seem drawn to Bosch. Is the PR20 the recommendation? Just want to use for quick trim off when its too "gangly" (is that a word) to use my router table.
Also, off this subject also need a recommendation for a quick easy jigsaw. Again the forum seems prone to Bosch. Still the way to go?
Thanks for you input and hope to contribute and be an asset to our group in the future.

welcome Bruce...
I be pro Bosch...
have you considered a 1617EVSPKR???

 

[DesertRatTom]

I like my Bosch Colt very well. Have both fixed and plunge base and several other accessories. I have a DeWalt 18v jig saw I like working, but i do plan to go the the bigger Bosch jig saw when the time comes. I think I want the model without a handle, a little lower center of gravity feels like I'd get a better grip on the tool.

 

[JIMMIEM]

I like my Bosch Colt very well. Have both fixed and plunge base and several other accessories. I have a DeWalt 18v jig saw I like working, but i do plan to go the the bigger Bosch jig saw when the time comes. I think I want the model without a handle, a little lower center of gravity feels like I'd get a better grip on the tool.

My wife bought the Bosch jig saw for me. I had indicated that I wanted the barrel grip but she ordered the D handle. Well, naturally I couldn't return it so I just hold it by the barrel and lock the trigger with my other hand. This works really well. I can also hold it by the D grip when making cuts that don't require a real accurate cut.

 

[old55]

Welcome to the forum Bruce.

 

[Cherryville Chuck]

Welcome Bruce. You have some impressive credentials so I suspect you'll catch on to woodworking quickly and we'll be glad to help as needed. The Bosch is good but unless it is just used for trim work you might find it a bit under powered as some have said. The DeWalt 611 ok (package with fixed and plunge bases) is a little bigger and not much more money. It is also popular.

 

[preferredb]

Thanks to all your replies and comments. Grateful for all
I've notice the Bosch router (1617) is definitely the crowd favorite. I've got an large ancient Craftsman
and a huge Makita 3600 plumge. I'm thinking of putting the Makita on a table I hope to build.
I do like the idea of a barrel handle for what little jigsaw use I'll be doing. Thanks to all

 

[schnewj]

ditto what master oliver said!!

+1

 

[BrianS]

Hi Bruce. Count me as another proponent for the Bosch barrel grip jig-saw. I had an "el cheapo" jig-saw and thought that was as good as it gets. Boy, WAS I wrong! What a difference.

 

[JFPNCM]

Add the plunge base to the router purchase, cheaper at the time and it not only expands the capability of the system but adds to you ability to control the router.

I had the barrel Bosch jigsaw and just couldn't adapt to it. Sold it and bought one with the D handle.

+1 on all the recommendations above.