Many tool manufacturers hold events in the summer where editors can look at the new tools that will be released during the year. In some cases, the tools may not reach shelves until the next year. These later releases are what we are forbidden to talk about or mention.
Yesterday, I went to Mt. Prospect, Ill., to the U.S. headquarters for Robert Bosch Tool Corporation for what the company calls the 2010 Global Leadership Tour, a two-day tool summit. This was the company’s chance to shine with new tools. And shine it did.
There are always new tools being released, so you need something to make it real news. Bosch certainly caught my eye with the new router that I wrote about in our June 2010 issue, the MRC23EVSK. This year, the trend continues with a new miter-saw that Bosch first displayed at last years’ event as a prototype. At that time, attendees were sworn to secrecy. It is now ready to be released this year, so let’s talk about it.
This new design allows the saw to be placed closer to the wall. This saves you space. You also get 36 cm of cut travel. Additionally, the controls are all located up front at the handle , no more reaching around the back of the saw to tilt for a beveled cut. Bosch recommends that the 15 amp motor is fully up when you turn the blade. Remember axial glide system. Im sure youll hear more about this design.
The fence is a major problem with miter saws. The fence can easily be knocked out or warped if it is a single piece. Bosch designed this saw with a split-fence fence. Both surfaces are precisely 90 degrees apart. . So at 27 kg, you wont need to worry when you move it around your shop.
Bosch also went above and beyond in dust collection. This miter saw comes with a standard bag or is ready to attach directly to a vacuum without having to find some kind of adapter. What are you asked to pay for this new miter saw design?
Bosch will also be addressing storage and organization issues with its new product, the Bosch LBOXX. Although I have added some photos, the information is still a little sketchy. (I hope to get more about these the next time .)
I can say that the LBOXX boxes are hinged in the back with two clamp connections at the front. They easily stack and lock to one another. The smallest box will cost more than the others, with each size increasing in price. The units have multiple carrying handles and should be available as stand-alone items and some tools may be sold with these boxes as opposed to plastic cases (which seldom find use in my shop).
Last but not least, 2010 is the year for the Robert Bosch Tool Corporation jigsaw. We were able to see a variety of new jigsaws, including top-handled saws and barrel-grip tools. The story will be told again.
