Editorial Review

This well-designed planer offers fast stock removal and the smoothest finish--exactly what we expected from Bosch. The powerful 6.5 amp motor runs the versatile two-blade Woodrazor system at 16,500 rpm with a protective shield that covers the section of blade that's not in use. The fence itself deserves applause--bevels are accurate and easy to adjust. We love the chip ejection as well. Too many times, we've tried tools with an exhaust system that might as well not be there, but this one actually moves the removed stock and it's multidirectional! Deep cuts are possible in just one pass without bogging or chatter. There's even a spring-loaded park rest stand that protects blade and workpiece. The saw is a special shape that allows easy start-up in the middle of a workpiece. Accidental starts are a thing of the past because of the lock-off release button. Bosch thought of everything; we're impressed. --Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• Depth adjustment of 0 - 3/32? - Makes deep cuts in one pass
• Powerful 6.5 Amp motor - For fast stock removal and a smooth finish, 16,500 RPM
• Chip ejection switch - Directs shavings left or right
• Versatile 2-blade system equipped with Bosch WoodrazorTM micrograin carbide blades
• Bevel guide fence - Ensures consistent planing from 0° to 45° through entire workpiece with a protective shield that covers the section of blade not in use

Reviews (19)

Needs a trigger lock, not a trigger safety.
Alot of tools these days have trigger saftey guards, especially cordless tools. While this may seem safe for your average homeowner, 90% of the guys on my crew always swear at them. Why? Because they want the dexterity for controling the cut, many of which are made in precarious unleveraged positions.Sound dangerous...well thats building. I'm not saying take your blade guard off and install a trigger lock on your skillsaw; but when I light up a planer, I like to lock it on and tune..less trigger fatigue...ask any one with framers elbow. I have a Hitachi F30A, two Makita 1900Bs and a Ryobi L1121, all have trigger locks and when its time to rock n roll andstraight edge, the crew leaves the Bosch in the box.

Recommended without reservation
I am a home builder and after considering where my time and energy was leaking, I decided to pick up a planer. Went with the Bosch model because of the brand and because of the exhaust port. As you read in other reviews, planers produce wood snow faster than any other tool by far. My anticipated application was smoothing subflooring and punishing misbehaving wall studs. Turns out there are a lot more places where a quick judicial touch will plumb, square and level framing and cabinetry, thereby boosting overall work quality and satifaction. In other words, it makes life on the site easier all the way around.

Bosch very helpful to consumers even on minor issues
After reading all the reviews here, I bought the 1594K planer expecting nothing but the best.I was sold by the chip eject direction feature, power, smoothness, and my previous positive experiences with Bosch tools.To me the mis-aligned shoes mentioned elsewhere seemed like a short-term QC problem that had been resolved, judging by all the positive reveiws.

I was concerned when I received my new planer and saw machining marks that were less than confidence-inspiring.The machining marks on about 30% of one side were obviously not machined the same way as the rest of the sole plate.It looked like the tail end of the cutting tool was doing the work in that area, as the tool marks were arcing in the opposite direction.So I began to doubt the rear sole plate was flat.

I contacted Bosch via e-mail on this matter.They responded quickly, and were extremely helpful.They sent me a new rear sole plate and forwarded my comments to a senior technical advisor to look into the matter.They also requested digital pictures (that I offered in my e-mail) to help them investigate the matter further.

After looking at the tool more closely, the rear sole plate WAS ACTUALLY FLAT and fully functional.So, this issue turned out to be nothing more than a cosmetic complaint, but Bosch listened to my concerns and did everything in their power to make me happy.Customer service this good is rare, and I applaud Bosch on their efforts.

Another thing I'd like to mention is that the planer kit comes with a chip bag, not the vacuum hose adapter.This typo appears in more than one place, but it's a fact that you get the chip bag instead of the VAC002 hose attachment.

And, yes, the planer works great too.I'll let the other reviews speak to that! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Bosch    2. (Bosh)   

Features

• Powerful 5 amp motor
• 18,000 rpm no load speed
• Convenient chip eject directs shavings left or right
• One-year warranty

Reviews (2)

Some missing parts, but Amazon working on problem
Did not receive second blade or vacuum attachment as described in the product description, but Amazon is working on getting them, I'm giving 3 stars just on the cosmetics, used but not much. I will upgrade as soon as I get the remaining accessories .. AMAZON AND BOSCH CAME THRU .. GOT ALL ACCESSORIES .. TOTALLY PLEASED .. 5 STARS

Great deal on a planer
I have used this planer primarily on doors in my house. In particular, I've found it long enough to get the start and end of the edge planed without "clipping" the edge. I'm not an expert door-hanger -- but it has easily paid for itself in saved labor costs.

A few words of advice on (interior doors). Plane when your house is MOST humid (usually in the summer) as the doors expand and you want them to close easily when they are most expanded. Be sure to plane an extra 1/64" or so to allow yourself a gap for a primer and at least one if not two finished coats of paint on the side edge of your doors. As for the tops and bottoms, leave them unpainted to allow the wood to dry if they are new doors, otherwise, a matching primer is more than enough and you need not bother with a finish coat of paint. Unless your doors is really badly off, you will not need to re-seat the hardware, but be prepared to if necessary. But before you start, make sure all of your hinge plates are on tight. No use taking a plane to a door if the problem is not the size of the door, but loose hingest. If so, replace the hinge screws with longer ones, and be sure to pre-drill the holes first to prevent cracking the door or jamb wood.

This tool beats hand planing allowing you to complete a door in just a few minutes. It will take you more time to get the door off and remove the hardware than to plane the edges. Adjustments are easy. I found this tool to be almost identical to the Makita planer which I borrowed prior to purchasing this one. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Bosch    2. (Bosh)   

Features

• Edge guide fence - Ensures consistent planing through entire workpiece with a protective shield that covers the section of blade not in use
• Powerful 5 Amp motor - For fast stock removal and a smooth finish, 18,000 RPM
• Chip ejection switch - Directs shavings left or right
• Electronically counterbalanced single-balde drum equipped with Bosch WoodrazorTM micrograin carbide blade
• Razor-sharp blade - Automatically positioned at ideal cutting angle

Reviews (5)

The little planer that could!
I put this guy to the test with a project that should have been beyond it's limits and it performed like a star!Unable to remove the finish from some 85 yr old oak flooring by sanding or scraping, this planer saved the day.In a pinch, I actualy planed about 500 sq feet of oak flooring (in place) with this unit - a task greater than what it was designed for I'm guessing.Probably 40 hours of actual use on that project and the planer just kept going.Now, I did go through about a dozen blades in that process, but this planer (and my knees) took the beating and saved a now beautiful old floor.This is a great planer for a good price and while, yes, it only has one blade, it's worked great for me in everything I've asked it to do as a homeowner.

Planer has only one blade.
I wasn't sure how many stars to give this since I have never used it.I ordered it and when it arrived I discovered that it is a one-bladed model. Bosch calls this an "electronically counterbalanced single-blade design."From the other reviews this seems to work well, however, I wish that the listing would have indicated this. Hence this little blurb. The extra blade "set" is just another single blade in a bubble pack.
Again, I have NOT used this machine, but have sent it back in favor of a two-bladed design.

For the money, you can't beat it...
I purchased this planer hoping it would last at least a few jobs, and was pleasantly surprised.Lightweight, powerful, comfortable to use, and a smooth depth setting takes the guesswork out of it, unlike the Makita's, which I've owned, hated, and returned.A newly converted Bosch enthusaist, I have nothing bad to say, well, except for the lack of a case.Picky, picky, I know ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Bosch    2. (Bosh)   

Editorial Review

If Bosch has their way, a day will soon come when a full-featured powerful cordless option will be available for any tool a worker needs. This planer is one such example. It's a full-sized and feature-packed cordless version of Bosch's popular corded planer. It offers a 3-1/4-inch planing width and is depth adjustable to 1/16 of an inch. The 18-volt motor spins the blades at 13,000 rpm. The planer uses a ratcheting depth knob for quick and simple adjustments, and in a system unique to Bosch planers, chip ejection can go to the left or the right as needed. It has an electronically balanced single-blade design to reduce drag for a longer run time and smooth finish. While this planer does offer plenty of power, cut capacity, and a full feature set, the battery makes it a bit heavier than its corded cousin (which can actually add to the tool's stability in use) and the handle position is more forward and on top of the tool to accommodate the battery at the back. This model comes with one battery, a one-hour charger, a chip and dust collection bag, and a carrying bag. --Brian Trinen ... Read more

Features

• Ratcheting depth knob - allows depth increments from 0 - 1/16" in one revolution "
• The only full size cordless planer on the market - full 3-1/4" width, depth adjustable to 1/16"
• Exclusive Bosch Woodrazor micrograin blades last Up to 30% longer than standard carbide blades
• Electronically balanced single-blade design reduces drag for a longer run time
• Chip ejection to either the left or right side as needed

Reviews (2)

de-plane de-plane!
any time you have a quick plane job, this is the tool.Several times a week I have a door that just needs a little of the top or side.you can put the bag on the planer bring it into the house plane the top or side and you are done with the job.obvisously some door have to come off the hindges, and this will still save time over cords.however, if you have a need for alot of planeing either have several batteries on hand or use your electrical one.I bought this planer in a kit which is the best way to go.

POWERHOUSE PLANER, AWESOME
THISPLANER FEELS AND RUNS AS IF IT IS PLUGGED INTO A POWER OUTLET.IT HAS LOTS OF TORQUE AND IS AS SMOOTH AS ANY CORDED PLANER I HAVE EVER USED.IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING BUYING THIS TOOL, I WOULD SUGGEST GETTING IT AND THE CORDLESS JIGSAW AS WELL.THEY HAVE REPLACE MY CORDED ONES, AND WORK BETTER THAN I HAD EVER EXPECTED.I AM A CARPENTER BY TRADE, AND HAVE USED MANY NAME BRAND TOOLS, BOTH ROUGH AND FINISH TOOLS.THIS PLANER KICKS BUTT. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Bosch    2. (Bosh)   

Editorial Review

If Bosch has their way, a day will soon come when a full-featured, powerful cordless option will be available for any tool a worker needs. This planer is one such example. It's a full-sized and feature-packed cordless version of Bosch's popular corded planer. It offers a 3-1/4-inch planing width and is depth adjustable to 1/16 of an inch. The 14.4-volt motor spins the blades at 13,000 rpm. The planer uses a ratcheting depth knob for quick and simple adjustments, and in a system unique to Bosch planers, chip ejection can go to the left or the right as needed. It has an electronically balanced single-blade design to reduce drag for a longer run time and smooth finish. While this planer does offer plenty of power, cut capacity, and a full feature set, the battery makes it a bit heavier than its corded cousin (which can actually add to the tool's stability in use) and the handle position is more forward and on top of the tool to accommodate the battery at the back. This model comes with one battery, a one-hour charger, a chip and dust collection bag, and a carrying bag. --Brian Trinen ... Read more

Features

• Ratcheting depth knob - allows depth increments from 0 - 1/16" in one revolution "
• The only full size cordless planer on the market - full 3-1/4" width, depth adjustable to 1/16"
• Exclusive Bosch Woodrazor micrograin blades last Up to 30% longer than standard carbide blades
• Electronically balanced single-blade design reduces drag for a longer run time
• Chip ejection to either the left or right side as needed

Reviews (1)

Bosch cordless planer
Bosch has definitely brought the cream to the top with this tool. It leaves its corded cousin behind, the sole plate has multiple v-cuts for chamfering extremely easily with this tool. I am beginning to build a corded Bosch museum, each advance in cordless technology makes corded versions less useful. My next wish on the list is for a multi voltage charging station, that would accomadate about 3 batteries and free up two outlets for me. OK Bosch are you listening?Keep up the great work on tools for the real world. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Bosch    2. (Bosh)   

Editorial Review

We like this tool. For starters, it offers an easy-to-operate calibrated knob to quickly adjust cutting depth and a deluxe variable-angle fence that allows for different kinds of cutting. In addition, when expelling debris from the planer, a discharge port select level lets you direct the shavings out either side of the tool. And, as always with Bosch, this tool's ergonomic features are superb: excellent weight distribution, a small-width grip you can really get your hands around, and an electronically balanced motor and blade drum that provide super smooth planing. The blades are reversible, too, and they require no adjusting. Plain and simple, this is another solid, sturdy, built-to-last power tool from Bosch. Other companies offer 3-1/4-inch planers for less money--but none are as powerful, easy to use, or well built. --Michael Shilling ... Read more

Features

• Electronically-balanced motor and blade drum provide smooth operation
• Cuts up to 3 1/4-inch in width
• Reversible carbide blades require no adjusting when changed
• Chip ejection switch directs shavings left or right

Reviews (1)

Bosch Plane 3296
I own a large home and am remodeling it top to bottom. I recently purchased twenty doors that need to be installed throughout my home. Someof the doors do not fit and needed to be planed down to fit. I own severalcast iron wood hand planes, but due to the extent of the work involved, Ithought a power plane would be the best method of accomplishing thistask.

I looked at Milwaukee, Porter Cable, Makita and Bosch power planesbefore I settled on the Bosch Model 3296K. It comes with a steel carryingcase, a fence attachment and a rabebtring depth stop. It is lighter thanthe rest of the models I looked at.

In use, it runs very quitely, has aneasy to use adjustment knob on the front to adjust the depth of cut, 1 mmat a time. The plane comes equipped with carbide blades that held up verywell.

The front shoe of the plane has a v-groove cut into it to allow forchamfers to be cut.

I installed twenty doors and all of them needed sometweaking. The cuts were smooth and effortless.

I would reccommend thisplane, Bosch #3296K, to anyone looking to but a power planer. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Bosch    2. (Bosh)   

Editorial Review

We like this tool. For starters, it offers an easy-to-operate calibrated knob to quickly adjust cutting depth and a deluxe variable-angle fence that allows for different kinds of cutting. In addition, when expelling debris from the planer, a discharge port select level lets you direct the shavings out either side of the tool. And, as always with Bosch, this tool's ergonomic features are superb: excellent weight distribution, a small-width grip you can really get your hands around, and an electronically balanced motor and blade drum that provide supersmooth planing. The blades are reversible, too, and they require no adjusting. Plain and simple, this is another solid, sturdy, built-to-last power tool from Bosch. Other companies offer 3-1/4-inch planers for less money--but none are as powerful, easy to use, or well built. --Michael Shilling ... Read more

Features

• 6-1/2 amp, 120-volt motor
• 15/16-inch rabbeting depth
• 3/32-inch depth of cut
• Reversible carbide blades
• One-year warranty

Reviews (3)

Bosch 3296K
The Bosch 3296K has excellent performance and functionality along with the best, most complete and versatile guide fence accessory available anywhere. There really is no comparing this unit to any of the other portable planers on the market today. The fence is so much better than the cheap, practically useless, guides offered by most manufactures and adds a dimension of accuracy and precision that could never be achieved repeatedly using a portable planer free hand. Only Porter-Cables top of the line model 9118, which I have used extensively, has a functionally comparable guide fence, but with only a 2-13/32" capacity, the PC is much more limited as to what you can do with it, and is also unjustifiably much more expensive.
The only minor complaint I have with the Bosch 3296K is that the chip chute lever is a little short and can be difficult to move forward after being fully seated in the rear position. It's possible that the lever may become easier to move as the unit gets more worn in, but right now it's a little stiff, even after being lubricated with silicone spray, and often requires two hands to operate. Also a chip bag might also be a nice extra for easier cleanup of quick, small, "hurry up", indoor plane jobs, such as shaving a door edge.
The really bad news is, unfortunately, if you don't already have one of these, you can pretty much forget about ever getting one. Right now, there is a very, very, limited availability of the 3296K. It took me over four months of scouring the web and local suppliers to finally locate and purchase one.
This is due to the fact that even though it is technically still available from some suppliers, Bosch is no longer manufacturing this unit because it is being replaced with a new model beginning in June 2002. The new model will reportedly have three chamfer slots in the shoe, a slightly higher amp motor, still maintain the 3/32" cutting depth capacity, the same excellent guide fence accessory and somehow actually cost a little less. Sounds like it's going to be another excellent unit.
Overall, from my own comparison and usage, as of this date, I personally feel that the Bosch 3296K is the finest and most versatile portable planer kit available from any major manufacturer and definitely money well spent, if you're lucky enough to still find one.

A tool worth buying
I work for a finish carpentry company; one of our main stages is installation of doors, The Bosh planer is used to do edge bevels and trimmings fit.Good features are: Good weight distribution. Smooth cutting. Strong motor. Good and firm adjust cutting depth. Nice left or right option on the dischargeable port extractor. Good solid Guiding fence.Poor features are: The back shoe of the planer could had been 1 ½ to 2 inches longer.One or two smaller v groves in the front shoe with the deeper single one only available now. The metal caring box could had been 1 to 2 inches bigger all the way around for easier fitting the planer with the guide fence on, and not having to move the guide in or out every time to use it or store it, even if it is easy to move it. Would I buy this planer again? Yes.

Great time saver
Had to replace 8 doors and make them fit old openings that were built out of real 2" lumber for the frames. Each one was different. This planer did the job just fine, never bogged down. With the directional chip ports, using it with either hand and any direction left the chips flying away from the operator. For a planer this one is not hard on the ears, not as loud as a circular saw. The fence on the planer never moved from where it was set and to adjust it was easy, its also about 2" high for great support. The only thing that I do not care for is the depth adjustment knob is marked in millimeters and not inches. But a minor detail for such a great tool. I since have used this planer instead of my belt sander on finishing the edges of some shelves, it leaves that clean of a cut. Great planer for the price. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Bosch    2. (Bosh)