Amazon.com Review

Woodworkers who like the smooth, accurate performance of Bosch's jig saws will appreciate this new cordless model. It offers plenty of power for making curved cuts in a variety of materials, and doesn't skimp on usability features. At its heart is a powerful and smooth-running Bosch-built motor and a durable and lightweight magnesium gear housing. The saw has variable speed from 0 to 2,000 strokes per minute with a 1-inch stroke length, and a maximum capacity of 2-3/4 inches in wood and 5/16 inch in steel. The base bevels 45 degrees and comes with a foot cover to protect finished surfaces. The tool-free blade-changing system is as simple and quick as we've seen, and even ejects used blades with the pull of a lever. There's a soft rubber top-handle grip that can be used in a couple different positions, and the variable-speed trigger has an ambidextrous lock-on switch. With this tool's smooth performance and Bosch-built reliability, we think any one who finds curve cutting and cords a cumbersome combination will appreciate it. This 14.4-volt model comes with one 2.4 amp hr battery, a one-hour charger, a blade set, and a no-mar overshoe. People looking for more power might consider Bosch's 18- or 24-volt models. --Brian Trinen ... Read more

Features

• Ergonomic soft grip handle design with multi position grip area
• One-touch blade change system for quick blade changes
• Variable Speed Trigger
• Powerful, Bosch built motor and magnesium gear housing for smooth operation
• Variable-speed trigger with ambidextrous lock-off switch

Amazon.com Review

Woodworkers who like the smooth, accurate performance of Bosch's jig saws will appreciate this new cordless model. It offers plenty of power for making curved cuts in a variety of materials, and doesn't skimp on usability features. At its heart is a powerful and smooth-running Bosch-built motor and a durable and lightweight magnesium gear housing. The saw has variable speed from 0 to 2,000 strokes per minute with a 1-inch stroke length, and a maximum capacity of 2-3/4 inches in wood and 5/16 inch in steel. The base bevels 45 degrees and comes with a foot cover to protect finished surfaces. The tool-free blade-changing system is as simple and quick as we've seen, and even ejects used blades with the pull of a lever. There's a soft rubber top-handle grip that can be used in a couple different positions, and the variable-speed trigger has an ambidextrous lock-on switch. With this tool's smooth performance and Bosch-built reliability, we think any one who finds curve cutting and cords a cumbersome combination will appreciate it. This 24-volt model comes with one 2.4 amp hr battery, a one-hour charger, a blade set, and a no-mar overshoe. People looking for more power might consider Bosch's 24-volt model. --Brian Trinen ... Read more

Features

• Ergonomic soft grip handle design with multi position grip area
• One-touch blade change system for quick blade changes
• 3-way grip maintains secure blade position for precise cuts
• Powerful, Bosch built motor and magnesium gear housing for smooth operation
• Variable-speed trigger with ambidextrous lock-off switch

Features

• Standard base - Accepts Bosch standard-style templet guides
• 5.6 Amps, 30,000 RPM
• Exclusive wrench system - Locks armature for easy bit changes
• Full 360° positioning of the base
• Accepts the full range of bases

Reviews (2)

Base not perpendicular to shaft
Bought this unit based on recommendations forom others, but returned because the base was not perpendicular to shaft. It is probably not a big deal if you intend to use it for laminate trimming, but I was planning to use it as a mini router, so wouldn't work for me. Otherwise seemed and felt like a great unit.

Laminate Router
I have used this particular Bosch Router in my countertop business for the last 18 years. These routers will last on average 4-5 years with every day use. Easy to change out bits, light weight, and very dependable with very smooth cuts. Highly recommend to any one who installs plastic laminate! ... Read more

Features

• Soft grip handle
• Powerful 15 amp all ballbearing motor
• Worm drive gear train
• Built -in saw hook
• Magnesium "waffle design" footplate

Reviews (9)

great power...short life
I am a framing carpenter and need a good, long lasting saw. This saw has great power, sturdy construction, but i've only had it a year and it already doesn't work. I pull the trigger, but nothing. I haven't been rough on it. I'm hoping it's just the brushes, bt still...only one year? I have much less expensive Skill saw that was nearly ten years old before the brushes needed replacement. Can't say that i am extremely pleased with this saw.

Well Done Bosch!
I need to rely on a good saw and like all of my other Bosch products this saw has never let me down. You will get a life time of work out of this workhorse. Don't hesitate, buy this great saw...Bosch reputation alone is enough reason!

Rear Handle version has better balance
The loose blade is a definite shipping hazard, both to the saw which sustained more than cosmetic damage and to the unsuspecting cartoon opener as the blade was protruding through the side of the Bosch box. Having decided to probably send this saw back, I bought the rear handle version of it from a local hardware (after checking it for loose blade damage). I tried both and like the rear handle better, it has better balance and is easier on the wrist, follows your line better. Both saws have a tendancy to rotate with the motor when you first start them up, so keep the blade away from your work.

Comfort and Power
This saw is the best worm drive I've used. It is light weight and has a nice balance. Good power. The built in saw hook, arbor lock and rubber cushion grip are all extras to a great tool. Well done Bosch.

A saw designed and constructed to last a lifetime
Quality, power, ease of use, quiet and smooth - this is the Bosch 1678. From the arbor lock which keeps the blade from turning when you change it, to the padded handle, to the saw hook that swings out when you want to hang the saw from a sawhorse or a rafter, these are just a few illustrations of the thought that has gone into the design and construction of this saw. I purchased the rip guide which is specific for this saw and I got a Bosch soft side case for the saw and accessories. A saw with the blade on the left took some getting used to for me. Now, I am beginning to see the advantages - easier view of the cutting line which means more accurate cuts. Also, this saw stays on the line and does not seem to want to "wander" as some others I have used in the past. One note of interest - this saw does not have the electic brake that many others do - the blade coasts down to a stop in about five seconds, instead of two. The tradeoff is that the brushes in the Bosch will last a long time. Electic braking plays hell with brushes. You will never regret this purchase. Mine arrived in perfect condition. I have saved its box for other stuff. ... Read more

Features

• Circular Saw has a 50 degree bevel.
• carries a 1 year warranty
• Drill/Driver 1/2" single sleeve chuck
• Drill/Driver 0-450RPM/0-1,500 RPM
• Drill/Driver Over 425 inch pounds of torque

Features

• Ideal platinum battery for home improvement fans
• 24-volt platinum battery
• Great spare battery for cordless tools
• Fits Bosch models 24-volt series

Reviews (3)

It's a Ni-Cad
The BAT030 is a NI-Cad battery. This is good because the Ni-Mh have not been as good as promised. They do have the memory effect but not as much but they have been found to not endure as long as Ni-Cad in high current applications such as in 14.4 V power tools and up. They have been found to perform better in low current applications such as laptops and cell phones.

In addition, you can reduce the memory effect by not leaving the battery on the charger after it is fully charged and exercising the battery by running it down to nothing about once a month.

MayBeGreat
This Battery May be great but there is NO information about what type of battery it is. Either Bosh dropped the ball in their info from manufacturer section or it is NOT a cool new type nickel metal hydride type with NO memory problems and toxicity problems like the old ni-cads or plain ole lead acid gell cells.
should not have to go elsewhere to find more but will have to...

Extra Battery for ease of tool usage.
By my calculation, an extra battery goes a long way to save time when using multiple tools in the Bosh cordless tool set. After all isn't the purchase of the family of Bosh cordless tools for the purpose of saving time and thus money? If you are going to use the Bosh saw and the Drill/Driver then having a third battery allows you to have a battery in each machine while the third recharges. By the way, "Home Improvement Enthusiast" is a silly title since anyone purchasing such an expensive professional grade set of tools is most likely to be in the home improvement trade and not a homeowner. ... Read more

Features

• Shock mounted handles - absorbs vibration to reduce operator fatigue
• The plug in anywhere hammer - does not need a compressor
• Total portability - operates on 115/120V AC/DC, 15 amp. outlet or 2500 watt portable generator
• ServiceMinderTM brush system - shuts the Brute off when brush replacement, lubrication, or preventative maintenance is needed
• Grease packed gear box and hammer mechanism - eliminates uncertainty of job site lubrication

Reviews (3)

its OK
Using it to break through 6 feet of rock.... did ok but the handle feels cheap like its going to fall off and the darn thing just doesnt have the power i would like

Precise and Powerful to handle all jobs
I highly recommend this hammer. It's tough and has never let me down, works like a steel horse!

ITS GREAT
This ahmmer is really a life saver. I used it to crush a 30' x 30' slab 4" thich and it only took 2 days. The only downfall is that its taller than pueumatic demolition hammers and im not that tall so it was a little hard to pull iy back up when crushing the concrete. I still highly recomend it ... Read more

Features

• Control knob for precise belt adjustment
• 3.3 Amps, 590-950 SFPM - the power of a belt sander with the flexibility of a detail sander
• Variable speed control for fine finishing or fast stock removal
• Quick-change lever allows fast belt changes
• Low vibration design for comfortable working

Reviews (6)

Compact Belt Sander
I have used regular belt sanders for years, heavy and awkward. This sander is great because its light weight and fast to work with. Its perfect for the fast or small job.

Good for light duty applications only
I am a small business owner and bought this sander to grind off the flashing on our polymer concrete castings (a material that is similar to cultured marble countertops.)

The good: It is light weight, easy to use and very easy to change the belts. It has a variable speed dial and a dial to align the belt should it wander off track.

The bad: It is too slow on the rpm's, even when you set it at its highest speed. It is also a little bit noiser than I thought it would be. It is about as noisy as a pneumatic. The belts are of poor quality. I burned through all of the belts that came with it in one day. They are also very expensive.

I can see this being an excellent tool for sanding wood or other soft materials but that is about it. Now that I am stuck with a non-standard belt size, I hope they offer belts for materials other than wood. I also hope that some other manufacturer will produce these belts to bring the cost down to where it should be for expendable items.

After First Use of the Compact Sander
After the first use of the compact Bosch Sander I rate it as excellent for my purposes. I bought it specifically to use in spot sanding dovetails when they stick out beyond the wood surface. For this use, its performance was excellent. It's very easy to handle because of its light weight and small size. I also used it to remove select areas of wood for better fit. I like it much better than my heavier Stanley belt sander which can sometimes gourge the wood (probably because of my carelessness).

Nice belt sander for small places
I needed a belt sander to strip old finish and spruce up a few thousand feet of redwood deck for a very good client. The bosch did nice work in places where I was forced to work by hand (otherwise). I found the sander very aggressive when I needed it to be and still responsive enough to do the finish sanding prior to re-staining the deck. The sander did exactly what I needed to do to reduce the labor intensive job I had. Like any speciality tool it took some time to get the feel of the work. However Bosh needs to work on belt quality (see review of 80 grit belts) By the way... I have read the reviews above, my advice (close to 30 years in construction) to anyone using power tools (especially tools that include exposed parts that revolve close to the hands) NEVER, I say never, wear gloves!

Wonderful tool for a day
I love Bosch power tools ! I've had one of these for 6 months now. I got to use it once before the front roller came out of its holder. Before that it was great. After that it was very frustrating. I took it to a service center. They had it for 4 months because the parts were on back order. When it finally came back ,one of the sales men asked me what was wrong. I showed him the front roller and he barely touched it and it fell apart again ! So I still don't have it. I guess this is so common that there aren't enough parts to go around. This is very strange for a a tool that says Bosch on it. Don't waste your valuable time or money on this tool. ... Read more

Features

• Tool-free template guide adapter for fast and easy template guide changes
• Quick clamp system on both bases for tool-free conversion
• Microfine bit depth adjustment system on both bases
• Exclusive Precision Centering Design centers bit precisely
• Wide base openings and 2" sub-base openings - accepts large bits

Reviews (5)

A man and his router
If your a serious woodworker like I am, or an occasional do it your-selfer you must appreciate the qualities of a good
router. I've owned and used many different brands, but
for the price and the quality you can't go wrong with a Bocsh. If you want ease of operation, easy adjustments, great control and one of the best templet guides available. TWO THUMBS UP get a Bocsh!

The 1617PK can be converted to EVS
I'm not sure why anyone would buy this 1617PK on Amazon when the variable speed version 1617EVSPK is available for a lower price. Variable speed is critical to control as the size of the router bit changes -- larger bits need to run at lower RPM. Anyways, I did buy this 1617PK because it was on mega-clearance at Lowes. After some schematic research, I found there are only 4 things different between the 1617PK and 1617EVSPK: the EVSPK has an added speed control, larger motor housing cover for the added speed control, and a different armature and field (the motor itself). I bought the speed control and cover for $30 through a local tool repair shop and now I have essentially the 1617EVSPK router for a steal of a price. It's not exactly the same because I didn't upgrade the armature and field...which would have drawn 1.0 more amps and provided about 1/4 more HP. So my point is that if you already have this single speed router, all is not lost and you can convert it to EVS if you really want, but if you haven't bought this, buy the EVSPK to begin with.

I own a Bosch 1613EVS plunge router and love it but wanted a dual base system too. Bosch routers are known for comfort and precision. They're kind of like the Toyota's of tools: well engineered tools that aren't the very best but consistently high performing and long lasting. The irritating things about this 1617PK/EVSPK router are the lack of a built-in dust control connection/system, non-centered base that requires the purchase of a centering cone or bit, and proprietary guide bushing system that requires an adapter to use the Porter-Cable standard guide bushings. Small things that I bought accessories to address but would've been better if they were part of the kit. Because of those things, I was convinced I would eventually get the Porter Cable 894VK combo kit until I heard how bad the plunge was on it. It's perfect on the Bosch, with Bosch being pretty much the only brand that covers its plunge posts to prevent dust from entering. The only other thing I don't like is that, unlike my 1613EVS plunge router, the 1617 doesn't have an on/off trigger on the plunge handle. But in the end, I'm a Bosch loyalist and because of the Lowes clearance, I now have two Bosch routers and am happy with both.

This router is awesome
It has been over 20 years since I did any sort of woodworking in junior high school shop class, and am just now starting to get back into it. Somewhere along the line I decided that I needed to get a router, so after reading lots and lots of stuff, I got the 1617PK. I think it is probably the best power tool I have purchased so far.

Tonight I used the router for the first time. Actually, it was the first time I have EVER used a router. I am very very impressed! I had absolutely no problems with the thing getting bogged down, even when I hit a knot in a piece of plywood. It just went right through it and there was no speed change at all.

This router is built like a tank, too. I have never seen a power tool that just looked beautiful. This thing does. The fit and finish is most excellent.

Just Outstanding...
I recently purchased the Bosch 1617PK (bought the kit for versatility) and could not be more pleased. This router performs extremely well for the work I put to it (making picture frame moldings). I have it mounted in a Bench Dog router table setup and in this configuration it is just the ticket! If I want to put it to other uses, all I have to do is open up the suitcase-sized carrying case and select the shell that best suits the impending job. Another Bosch triumph...yes I own and use Bosch tools on a near exclusive basis and think the world of them.

Nice little unit
Good power, pretty easy to change bits. I had a little trouble changing to the plunge set up. Very good visability. I wish the power swich was a little easier to get to while holding router, it seems that it took a little fumbeling to switch it off in a hurry when I needed to but over all I am very happy with the buy. ... Read more

Features

• Includes mounting hardware & RA1002 Fine Adjustment Control Extension
• For use with Bosch 1617/18 series routers in router table
• Base opening of 3-3/4" accomodates large bits.
• Microfine bit depth adjustment with resettable indicator
• Quick clamp allows tool-free removal of motor from base.

Reviews (4)

Did not receive Fine Adjustment Control Extension
My base arrived without the Fine Adjustment Control Extension, and an inquiry to amazon.com customer service brought the reply that this was a widespread solution. I suggestion just sending me an extension, since they are sold separately, but I am still waiting for a reply.

Design flaw
>
This letter was e-mailed to Bosch. Lets see if they are helpful.

Dear Sirs,

I recently bought an RA1164 router base with fine adjust handle (to be mounted under a router table). I actually only needed the handle. I own about 8 Bosch routers and wanted to mount one undermount one. The fine adjust handle is easier to reach under a table.

Unfortunately the fine adjust handle broke off after a few weeks use. Examination shows that the construction of this handle is completely insufficient. The handle is threaded into a fitting on the router base. The threaded end of the handle is actually a hollow tube with walls about 1/16" thick. Any lateral pressure (sideways} can easily snap the handle off at this weak point, as happened to me.

Please let me know if you are willing to fix this problem with a different casting or other means of threading the handle, and how I can get the fix.

Very truly yours

Elia A. Sinaiko
Day Spring Studio

Good base but watch the bit.
This is a great base for undertable use however....sometimes when I set the depth and then close the locking clamp, the router body (and bit) moves up (enough to make a difference). I've just learned to keep an eye on the bit when I close the clamp and usually when I readjust the depth, the router doesn't move again....Go figure!

An excellent solution for multi-use routers
Most of us don't have unlimited tool budgets and can't afford to sacrifice a fine router to permanent table use. On the other hand, continually screwing/unscrewing a router base from under the table can be a pain while dragging out project time. This seperate under table base is an excellent solution to that problem. The router motor slips in and out with the flip of a lever and a quarter twist, and locks firmly in place.

The RA1164 is essentially the same as the stock base supplied with the router, minus the nice wood handles. The real bonus is that the under table base has the same precision depth adjustment as the stock unit (1/16" per turn). It also comes with an extension for the depth adjustment that makes it even easier to reach in tight places. It's a great addition to any shop.

Be advised that this RA1164 base only works with specific Bosch router models: 1617 (16171), 1617EVS (16176), 1618 (16181, 1618EVS (16186), 1617 220 volt (0601617161). ... Read more

Features

• Patent pending 4-flute design for fast dust removal
• Carbide-tipped bit heads are harder, tougher and more resistant to extreme loads for longer tool life
• Set includes one of each HC2010, HC2040, HC2051, HC2061, HC2081, and two HC2041 for handling a wide variety of applications
• Metal storage case for easy access, organizing and portability

Features

• 13/16-inch x 8-inch dado capacity
• Accommodates 3/4-inch lumber
• Custom rabbeting capability

Reviews (4)

Second one works fine
Well, the first one I received was bent -- laying it face down on the table top, it would rock considerably. If adjusted so the front and back edge were in line with the table, it was high in the center. I figured that would probably throw my cuts off, so I just shipped it back. Amazon had a flat replacement at my door a few hours after I managed to drop the old one in the mail. The replacement works great, and I'd probably rate it 4 stars if the first one hadn't been bent. Also, considering that the manual for the saw itself says very little about mounting a dado stack, it might be nice if the insert gave you some more info. I had to email Bosch tech support to get the secret for getting beyond 1/2".

Seems to work for me
Perhaps I got lucky, but it seems to work fine for me. I had no trouble with fitting it to the saw or how it aligns with my dado stack. The short arbor on the Bosch 4000 is what limits my stack width, not this throat plate.

I rate it 3 stars because overall it's a bit cheap. While functional, it's not nearly as nice as some of the custom inserts I've seen.

Don't bother
After struggling somewhat with fitting it and the dado blade to the drive, I decided it would be better to use it as a good template for my own homemade Insert.

Dado insert
Disappointed with the insert. Love the saw and the stand. The dado insert only allows a 1/2" cut. A 3/4" dado setup rubs against the insert. You'd need to take the stabilizer off to have the blades be centered. It's as if no one tried it after it was developed. ... Read more

Features

• Insulated nozzle protects operator, provides a cool exterior temperature
• 14.3 Amps, 750-1000°F
• Powerful blower provides a high volume of air needed for industrial applications
• Air intake regulator adjusts the temperature to the requirements of the job
• Cool air setting for cooling tool and for no-heat applications, adds versatility

Reviews (1)

Does just what it is designed for
I really like this heat gun. It is commercial quality. It will last for years, can be rebuilt ( if necessary ), the base is very convenient ( this does not cool quite as fast as the variable heat range model ), and always comes up to the same temperature. I think if I were to buy another the variable heat range model, just because there are times when this model is too hot for the project at hand, and varying the distance between the gun and the work is not enough. That is my only complaint w/ this tool, but it is not the tool's fault. If you intend to use this gun for the same project and you don't need to vary the range, this is the heat gun to buy ! ... Read more

Product Description

Includes (2)--2.4A-h Batteries, (1)--1 Hour Charger - BC004, (1)--Rip Fence, (1)--Mag Bit Holder - 2610917319, (1)--Side Handle - 2602025126, (1)--Bit Case - 2610915997, and (1)--Carrying Case - 2610917460. ... Read more

Features

• Auxiliary handle
• BOSR9
• 18Volt
• (2) 2.4a-h batteries
• 1 Hour Charger

Amazon.com Review

This cordless circular saw from Bosch is a worthwhile addition to their well-built line of 18-volt cordless tools. Its 6-1/2-inch blade is perfect for cutting trim and ripping plywood, with a maximum 1-5/8-inch depth of cut at 45 degrees and 2-1/8 inches at 90 degrees. It offers a 50-degree bevel with a positive stop at 45 degrees and a great one-handed tool-free rear depth-of-cut adjustment. There's also a tough steel base plate, a spindle lock for easy blade changes, and an integrated dust collection port. We like the smooth performance the saw's Bosch-built power train delivers, the soft-grip (found on all Bosch cordless tools), and the great line of site that results from this blade-left configuration. This model includes the saw, a one-hour charger, one battery, a rip fence, an 18-tooth carbide blade, and a case. --Brian Trinen ... Read more

Features

• Integrated dust collection port
• 18-volt motor delivers 3600 rpm
• 50-degree bevel capacity with positive stop at 45 degrees
• One handed rear depth adjustment allows accurate depth of cut setting
• Ergonomic handle with soft grip

Reviews (3)

Bosch builds the best Saws!!
This saw is Great!! It's solidly put together. The saw cuts smoothly, strongly and precisely. I couldn't ask for more.

great saw
The saw blade is wonderful. It makes really nice cuts. The battery is great because I don't have to recharge it as often as other cordless tools I have owned in the past. It is a very comfortable tool to work with. I would recommended to anyone looking for a new saw. I am very happy with this saw. The 3 year service plan is great. If I break my tool they fix it or replace it.

Bosche Circular Saw 24v
The saw works great, the 6 1/2" blade is readly available for about [money amount]. I have owned the dewalt 18v cordless circular saw and this one is far supperior. The extra 6 volts makes a difference. It cuts plywood great and 2x stock pretty good. The sharpness of the blade is supper important. The sharper the blade, the longer the battery lasts. The dewalt blade cost about [money amount] at [local store]. ... Read more

Features

• Aluminum gear housing with protective rubber front for jobsite toughness
• Innovative Hammer and Anvil System delivers up to 950 in/lb of torque for medium duty jobs
• Soft-grip handle absorbs the impact for less operator fatigue
• Cutting-edge, high-performance motor and all-metal gears for super fast operating speeds of 3,200 BPM and 2,800 RPM
• Lightweight 3.5 pounds and 6.5 inches in length for great handling

Features

• 2 speed bump off switch for ease of operation.
• Includes 1/8" and 1/4" collets, 9 assorted bits, open end wrench, depth guide, cutting guide, and carrying case
• Durable non-marring base-for smooth, consistent cutting
• Spindle lock button for easy bit changes
• Quick clamp removeable depth guide; attaches, adjusts, and detaches in seconds

Reviews (2)

Excellent!
I read these reviews often but had never been moved to write one until now as this is one of the first products that exceeded my expectations.

I had a medium size dry wall project coming up and had heard about these rotary saws but after reading the reviews for them all, I was in doubt: everyone said the DeWalt and Rotozip were loud, messy, difficult to control, and broke bits off often. I like Bosch's products so I decided to take a chance on it. It has been great. I have now finished the project and I can say that all the complaints about the other models do not apply to the Bosch. It is not too loud nor does it send a cloud of dust in one's face. After a couple of cuts it was easy to control and I used the same bit for two weeks without it breaking or seemingly going dull. I have not tried it with real hard surfaces like tile but so far it has been tremendous. It has saved so much time and seems so well made. I liked it so much that I hope this review helps others who are deciding what product to buy.

Great tool
I have used a Rotozip many times and liked it, but when I tried the Bosch 1639K Rotary Saw, i knew it was a Bosch because it is smoother and the controls are better. Bosch is one of my favorite tool makers, I would try anything they make. ... Read more

Features

• 4-inch overall length
• 10 teeth per inch
• Used in wood and plastic applications
• Very fine cut

Reviews (1)

The Best Jigsaw Blades
For anyone who isn't sure which jigsaw blade to buy, the 101B is the absolute best blade for almost all woodcutting in wood under 1 1/4" thick. It leaves the cleanest cut and is the easiest to use for design cutting of any blade on the market. I've been using them for 13 years and I've tried everything else. ... Read more

Features

• Powerful 13 amp all ball and roller bearing motor
• 45-degree bevel for angle cuts
• 18-tooth carbide blade
• Carry bag

Reviews (5)

great saw
I bought this saw about a year ago, I'm a carpenter and use side drive skilsaws every day. The guy's I work with own a few other brands (milwuakee - makita - skil) and they all do what they're supposed to but I'll tell you why the bosh is better than all of them.. Skil: Bosh bought skil, this saw is almost identical to the old skil side-drives but without the finger lever to pull up the blade guard, also the bosh's motor is more powerful. However the now ones from skil, since bosch bought them, are cheaply made and not worth buying.. Makita: the blade guard catches on the work, the aluminum table bends easily, and the dust extraction works poorly shooting sawdust in your eyes when you are trying to see your cut.. Milwuakee: Loud!! to adjust the blade level you move the handle up and down, not pivot it like all the other saws. this is neat engineering and all but it makes the saw really hard to follow a line because the handle is so far above the blade.. now the porter cable i havent tried but it sounds like a good saw. if anyone is in the market for a new sidewinder, I would choose between this bosch and the porter cable..

Bosch--enough said
This is by far the best circular saw I've used, and I've used them all! It is incredibly powerful, well designed, and easy to handle. Heck of a deal,I love this thing! I have yet to find something I don't like.

The Best Saw You'll Ever Buy
I'm a framer and general contractor in New York. I bought this saw initially because of the Bosch name (any "real" tradesman knows about Bosch). For the money you'll spend for this saw...you cant beat the damn thing. Mine has been dropped off of a roof while cutting fascia...I'd say about 24 ft. Still Going!!! I also find that it works best with 24 tooth Freud Diablo framing/decking blades. Congrats if you buy one...you wont regret it.

An outstanding product
Between this bosch and the Makita's , which I looked at, the Bosch was the best in terms of build qaulity and overall stability. Makita makes very many good products. I have 2 sanders and a 12" miter saw and they are extremely reliable and dependable. However, I've begun to buy several Bosch products, most of which are very impressive, including this circular saw. It just feels as if it will last a long time and can be counted on for performing everytime time it is needed. The only other circular saw which I considered was the Metabo's, but since the price is prohibitive, I went with the Bosch. The Bosch is a bit heavier than the Makita and feels as if it is riding on rails when gliding though the workpiece. Very stable. An excellent saw that is comletely satisfying in every way.

Excellent Value Saw
This saw is at a great price/performance point. Ball and roller bearings mean long life, no slop after years of use and smooth operation. It is not too heavy, well balanced, easy to hold and a real pleasure to use. The included carbide blade cuts like a hot knife through butter on plywood and 2x6 deck materials. Handy carry bag inlcuded and the lock-nut wrench stores firmly in the handle so that you'll never loose it. Overall, a great buy. ... Read more