Dedicated router table or a MFT3?

[mlutton]

To start, I have a TS55, OF1400, CT22, and the RO125 FEQ (among other tools).

I am contemplating building a dedicated router table (with fence etc.) but now I am starting to think an MFT3 will provide me with the same precision and routing possibilities as the router table but will also give me the precision I am lacking for repetitive cuts, clamping, assembly etc.

Any thoughts from those that have used the table?  I have looked everywhere and can find little about using it as a router table with the guide rail.

Thanks in advance
Matt

 

[mouppe]

To be honest, I do not think the two tables overlap in terms of function. I use my router table when I want to use large diameter bits, or when I prefer to bring the wood to the router rather than the router to the wood (for example when the router will not balance very well on the wood).

I use the OF1400 with the MFT 90% of the time- with and without the guide rails. It's great for clamping, quick to set up, clean, etc., but when you need a router table there is no substitute.

Richard.

 

[Chris Hughes]

I have a router lift I drop into my MFT from time to time in the field.  I use a Jessem Master Lift which also drops into my table saw.  I adapted the lift for a Freud fence and channeled a T track for a miter fence and sled.  The system is set up for making short runs of mouldings to match in the field.

 

[nachtwacht]

With "guiderail" you mean the rail on the side of the MFT ?

That "rail" is a V rail and not a T-rail. You will not be able to hook any normal devices that would fit into a Trail (Ttrack) on there. There are some people that actualy made a router table out of their MFT (you can find them here on the forum) but if you compare what they end up with to a real dedicated and designed for that purpouse router table I think they always lack (a lot) fuctionality.

I am personaly going for an MFT/VL and will fit that with a CMS for my router but will also make TTracks around it since I have the feeling that they are very usefull. (never used a router table before so not talking out of experience, just personal feelings)