Bosch 5/8 in. x 1-3/8 in. Flat-Top Cylindrical Rotary Rasp

Bosch has long been a trusted name in the world of tools, and their Rotary Rasp (model RR681) is no exception. This cylindrical flat-top rasp is designed to fit most power drills, making it a versatile addition to any toolbox. But how does it perform in practice? After putting it through its paces, I have some thoughts to share on its strengths and weaknesses.

First, let's talk about the build quality. The Rotary Rasp is made with tempered alloy steel, which gives it a robust feel right out of the package. The cylindrical head is specifically designed for efficient material removal, and the flat-top smooth-shaping design promises ease of use and control. The shank diameter is a standard 0.25 inches, meaning it fits snugly into most power drills without any issues. At 2.75 inches in overall length and weighing just 0.15 lb, it’s compact and lightweight, making it easy to handle.

One of the first tasks I used the Rotary Rasp for was enlarging a hole in a sink top to accommodate a single-handle faucet. The tool performed admirably, making quick work of the material and leaving a clean, smooth hole. The flat-top design allowed for precise control, and the cylindrical head efficiently removed the excess material. This initial success left me optimistic about its capabilities.

However, my next project involved working on a wooden door, and this is where I encountered some issues. I needed to enlarge a door knob hole, and initially, the Rotary Rasp seemed up to the task. But after just a few minutes, I noticed it was becoming less effective. The rasp dulled quickly, and I found myself having to revert to a hand wood rasp to finish the job. It became clear that while the tool is excellent for softer materials, it struggles with harder woods.

I also tried using the Rotary Rasp on a piece of mesquite wood, which is known for its hardness. Similar to my experience with the door, the tool worked fine initially but dulled significantly after about 15 minutes of use. This rapid loss of edge retention was disappointing, especially for a tool that’s supposed to handle a variety of materials.

On a more positive note, the Rotary Rasp performed well when I used it to straighten out a notch made by a saw. I paired it with an 18-volt cordless drill, and it did a good job of smoothing out the rough edges. However, I did notice that the tool has a tendency to "walk" away from the intended area if not held tightly and used slowly. This is something to keep in mind to ensure accuracy and avoid damaging the workpiece.

Another challenge I faced was when using the Rotary Rasp on slightly damp wood. The tool clogged up fairly quickly, reducing its effectiveness. This is a common issue with many rasps and burrs, but it’s worth noting if you plan to work with materials that might have some moisture content. On dry wood, the tool performed much better, maintaining a good balance between material removal and smooth shaping.

In terms of ease of use, the Rotary Rasp is straightforward. Its compatibility with 1/4-inch round shanks means it can be used with a wide range of power drills, and its lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver. However, the rapid dulling and tendency to clog mean that it’s best suited for smaller, less demanding tasks.

Would I recommend the Bosch Rotary Rasp? It depends on your needs. If you’re looking for a tool to handle occasional, light-duty tasks on softer materials, this rasp is a solid choice. Its ease of use, compatibility, and initial performance are commendable. However, if you need a tool for more demanding projects involving harder woods or extended use, you might want to look elsewhere. The rapid loss of edge retention and issues with clogging make it less suitable for heavy-duty applications.

In summary, the Bosch Rotary Rasp RR681 has its strengths and weaknesses. It excels in light-duty tasks and offers good control and ease of use. However, its performance on harder materials and during extended use leaves something to be desired. For those who need a tool for occasional, less demanding projects, it’s a worthwhile addition to the toolbox. But for more intensive work, you might find yourself needing a more robust solution.