BOSCH 4-1/2" Corded Angle Grinder (1375A)

BOSCH’s 1375 angle grinder is sized along with the rest of the pack in terms of form factor.  It includes a 6-amp motor, which is undersized compared to competitors.  The tool spins discs at 10,000 rpms, which isn’t too shabby but we’re concerned with how these rates will hold up under more strenuous tasks.

A side switch turns the tool on and off and includes a lock-on feature that allows you to work for an extended period of time without having to actively depress the switch.  Since many angle grinder operations can last for an extended period of time, this is a welcome feature for tired fingers.  The side switch works just fine, but we prefer triggers on the bottom of the main tool body.  A spindle lock makes attachment switches easy and a standard blade guard is included.  The blade guard rotates after loosening and tightening a bolt.  There’s nothing wrong with this design, but it’s a little dated as other competitors incorporate easier guard rotation actions.

The size and weight of the tool is easy on the hands and arms.  At less than 4 lbs, the 1375 won’t cause fatigue during longer working sessions.  This won’t be an issue with cutting operations but grinding and polishing jobs should benefit from the lighter form factor.  The body of the 1375 angle grinder is tough and lives up to BOSCH standards.  An epoxy coating keeps debris from nicking and scraping the tool.  There are two positions for the handle, left and right.  We think BOSCH missed by not including a top position, which is particularly useful for some cutting operations.

Build quality is respectable, which we expect from the BOSCH logo.  The 1375 also includes the Service Minder  Brush System which prevents the tool from turning on when brushes need replacing.  This handy feature keeps the tool from accidental damage when preventative maintenance is needed.

The price is very competitive.  The 1375 costs less than half of competitors, which makes it a great value play for a first angle grinder.