Bosch Professional 12V System GKF 12V-8 cordless palm router (incl. 17 mm open-ended spanner)

The essentials

The Bosch Professional 12V System Cordless Palm Router GKF 12V-8 is designed for one job above all: edge routing with a compact, cordless setup. On paper, it’s the kind of tool you reach for when you want manoeuvrability and control rather than hauling out something bulkier.

Bosch’s pitch here is a professional 12 V edge router with a shape that’s meant to sit well in the hand, helping with ergonomic handling. The body is described as compact thanks to a brushless motor and the 12 V system, and the cordless approach is clearly aimed at freedom of movement—useful around benches, awkward corners, or where access is tight.

What stands out in everyday use

A palm router changes the feel of routing work. With this one, the “balance point” and low weight are highlighted as being optimised for comfortable, controlled handling. That matters most when you’re working along edges and need to guide the base consistently without fighting the tool’s weight.

Cordless also tends to improve workflow. You can reposition quickly, get closer to the cut line, and avoid trailing cables in the way—especially when you’re doing smaller jobs or finishing work where you don’t want to set up a whole production-style setup.

There’s also a practical angle to the included spanner and collet parts: the scope of supply lists an open-ended spanner 17 mm and a collet with nut for 1/4". It’s the kind of inclusion that can save you a bit of rummaging when you’re trying to get going.

Worth noting, it says the 1/4" collet is also compatible with 6/8 mm collets. That’s helpful if your wider kit uses different sizes, but it’s still something you should double-check against the exact collets you already own.

Key features you’re actually buying into

• The tool is part of Bosch Professional 12V System, with a brushless motor described as contributing to a compact body.
• It’s positioned as an edge router with a unique design intended for “perfect control”.
• It’s cordless, targeting convenience and maximum manoeuvrability for routing tasks.
• It includes an open-ended spanner 17 mm, plus a 1/4" collet with nut, with compatibility mentioned for 6/8 mm collets.

If you’re comparing this approach against a more traditional corded router, the trade-off is usually about setup and portability rather than sheer size. This one leans into being “grab-and-go” for smaller, more controlled routing jobs.

Who it suits (and who should be cautious)

It makes sense if you do frequent edge routing where you want control, lighter handling, and less faff with cables. It also suits buyers who already use or plan to stick with a Bosch Professional 12V System ecosystem.

It might not be the best match if you need a larger router for heavy, deep, high-throughput tasks. Palm routers are often more about finesse and manageable handling than raw, big-machine performance. Also, since the information provided focuses on the router unit and included accessories (spanner and collet), you’ll want to check what else you need for full operation before ordering.

It’s a solid choice for many DIYers and tradespeople doing trim, edges, and detail work—but depending on the scale of your projects, you may find bigger tools more appropriate.

Tech specs

Name: Bosch Professional 12V System Cordless Palm Router GKF 12V-8 Type: Cordless palm router / edge router Motor: Brushless motor (described) System: 12 V system Included: Open-ended spanner 17 mm (spare part number 2 609 110 438) Included: Collet with nut 1/4" (1 600 A00 H85) Collet compatibility: Also compatible with 6/8 mm collets (as stated) Packaging: Cardboard box

Should you buy it?

Buy it if you want a cordless edge-routing tool with an ergonomic design aimed at control, and you’re happy working with the 12 V cordless format for smaller-to-medium routing tasks. The fact it includes the 17 mm open-ended spanner and a 1/4" collet with nut is a genuine time-saver.

Skip it if your work demands a larger router’s approach, or if you’re not sure you’ll get the collet size coverage you need. Also, if you’re starting from scratch with a 12 V system, it’s worth checking what’s covered in the box versus what you may still need.

Mini FAQ

What is this router mainly for?

It’s described as a 12 V professional edge router, so it’s aimed at routing along edges where control and comfort matter.

What’s included in the box?

The scope of supply lists an open-ended spanner 17 mm and a collet with nut for 1/4". It’s also supplied in a cardboard box.

Does it work with other collet sizes?

The entry states the 1/4" collet is also compatible with 6/8 mm collets. It’s still smart to verify compatibility with the collets you already have.

Is the brushless motor a big deal?

The brushless motor is specifically mentioned and linked to a compact body. If you’re weighing up comfort and portability, that’s the angle to consider.

Is cordless a clear advantage here?

For manoeuvrability and convenience during routing—yes, especially where cables are awkward. But if your projects are heavy-duty, you might find you prefer a bigger, more robust routing setup.