Advice on MFT, TS55 and OF1400 Accessories

[Ujipster]

Hello,
I am new to Festool products and after reading the FOG for the last month I couldn't resist making a purchase for the MFT, TS55/CT36 and the OF1400. Other than the clamps are there any accessories that are a necessity that I might want to pick up along with these fine tools? It doesn't have to be something you use every time you are in the shop, but something you find immensely time saving or innovative to the task at hand. I am a hobbyist and initial projects are stepping stool, bird house, jewlery boxes and eventually work my way up to book cases.

Lastly, let me say that I have poured through countless threads on FOG and its members and forum management is exceptional and unique. I would say unparalleled to other industries and a significant reason I made a sizeable investment into Festool's products. Thanks in advance for the advice! -t

 

[mouppe]

Nice buys and just ahead of the march increase!

 

[Jesse Cloud]

Oooooh!  We love these questions and spending other people's money! [big grin]

First of all, you got a great starter package - great choices!

For the saw, you might think about a longer rail or at least an extra rail and the joiners to combine two.  A must for breaking down sheet goods.  The blade that comes with the saw is darned good, you may never need a different one, but its always good to have a spare for when the other one is getting sharpened.

For the MFT, you will love QWAS dogs.  Festool doesn't make them, but Bob Marino sells them.

For the vac, maybe a cleaning kit?  The boom arm and the workcenter are pricey, but everytime I use them (which is several times a day) I have to grin because they are so handy!

There's a bazillion accessories for the OF1400.  Get a couple of extra stops for the rail, for stopped cuts.    If you are using patterns or making jigs to work with the 1400, get some copy rings (or the porter cable compatible ring if you already have PC template guides).  Of course, there's router bits, but I recommend buying as you need them.  Once you digest all this stuff, look at Brice's video on the MFS.  If you use the OF1400 on the guide rail, you will need a strategy for keeping it level (e.g. something to make up for the thickness of the rail).  The outrigger that comes with it is supposed to do that, but its a piece of junk.  Search the FOG for a thread that discussed this - there are several alternatives.

Whew, I'm out of breath and you are probably out of money by now.

Enjoy!!

 

[VictorL]

For MFT two pairs of clamping elements and fast clamps
For CT-36 cleaning set and extra bags.
For TS-55 extra blade(s) and rail with holes. FS-3000/2 rail will be handy too
For OF-1400: Edge guide, guide rail adapter.

VictorL

 

[Corwin]

In addition to the items that Jesse mentioned (above),  I would also suggest:

At least one pair of Clamping Elements for use with your new MFT/3.

And for your new OF1400 router, you will want an Edge Guide and the Guide Stops. 

Oops, I see Victor has beat me to this...

 

[otis04]

My favorite accessory for the 1400 is the guide rail adapter.  It makes cutting profile bits easier and better quality when used as an outrigger/stabilizer.

 

[pugilato]

If you're going to get a second rail to extend the reach of the saw and router, you might want to consider getting the one with the holes... I wish I had.

 

[GPowers]

Parallel Guides  [wink]

 

[peter halle]

My reply will be shocking.  Buy the clamps and the guide rail adaptor for the 1400 then stop for now.  Use the tools.  Buy some scrap and spend some time in the shop.  Find out what they can do.  Get a chair and think about what is next.  Then when you decide what is next look at what you have and see if there is a way to make what you have work.  Ask questions here based on your next need based on what you have then.

My rational is that that by stopping and experiencing and then questioning and exploring you will ultimately find out what is needed vs wanted for what you do.  The Festool system is fabulous in my mind and offers so many possibilities, but there is a core that is essential and which is built upon.

Peter