Differences CMS angle stop profile and MFT angle stop profile

[ElectricFeet]

I have an MFT/3 and when I bought it, I bought the whole caboodle with the angle stop and everything. I don't use it, partly because I find that using parf dogs is easier and more accurate, but mainly because my workshop consists of a walk-in cupboard and a balcony and the angle stop would need assembling every time I get the table out, which is just not happening.

So the angle stop just sits in the cupboard.

Meanwhile, I also have a CMS GE for routing. I bought a set that didn't include the sliding table and the angle stop, as I didn't think I would want/need them. I now find that I would like them and realise that the components of the angle stop for the MFT and for the CMS are pretty much identical.

The only difference that I can see in EKAT when comparing the angle stop on the MFT/3 (495314) with the angle stop in the CMS GE accessories (under 488451) is the fence, or "stop profile", as they are called in EKAT. The MFT's stop profile (part 475217) is square at the ends and is notched (to allow it to sit under the rail, if I recall), like this:
View attachment 1

While the CMS's stop profile is slanting like this:
View attachment 2

There are two part numbers in EKAT for the CMS's angle stop (465095 and 448141), labeled 50 and 70, so I presume it's a question of length.

I can see 2 possible advantages of the CMS's slanted stop profile over the MFT's: (1) it's shorter, so it's easier to move on the sliding table [but this is nothing a hacksaw couldn't fix ] and (2) there's perhaps more visibility with a slanting stop profile, as you'll be able to see the router bit slightly better while working, thus reducing risk. Though injuries due to the pointy ends of the stop profile are far more likely in my case!

Otherwise, it looks like I'm all set to give the MFT's angle stop a new lease of life on the router table. All I need to buy is the sliding table.

Can anyone see any other reason why I would need the slanting stop profile of the CMS GE? Is there anyone here who has used both and can advise (e.g. [member=11196]Peter Parfitt[/member] , I see that you have been creative in the use of your MFT angle stop in the past on a CMShttps://www.festoolownersgroup.com/festool-tool-problems/cms-ge-feather-board/msg373870/#msg373870 )

Are the slots at the same height for instance?

(And as I'm mentioning you Peter, I'd like to show my appreciation for all the videos you make. I've learned so much from them. Thank you!)

 

[tjbnwi]

I interchange the MFT and CMS angle stops all the time.  The one for the CMS does have a longer arm into the V groove clamp.

Just use the MFT stop for now.

Tom

 

[ElectricFeet]

Thanks [member=4105]tjbnwi[/member] !

Do you have any advice on the fence differences? Can I use the MFT fence on the CMS with no problems?

 

[FestitaMakool]

If you find it useful to use the MFT fence on the GE, go for it - it’s the beauty of the Festool system. Most interchange accessories all the time to fit each task best possible way.
I would absolutely get the sliding table, it is very smooth, also very compact to store and bring along in the car if needed.

 

[ElectricFeet]

Thanks [member=71478]FestitaMakool[/member]

I haven't tried the MFT fence on the CMS GE because I had assumed I need the sliding table before using this setup. Are you saying that the sliding table isn't even necessary? (Though I will almost certainly get one -- there's simply not enough space on the table to do anything large without it.)

 

[GarryMartin]

The sliding table is necessary to do cross cuts with the Angle Stop. In this configuration, the Angle Stop attaches to the V groove on the sliding table.

You can use the MFT Angle Stop and fence guide as a rip fence without issue.

 

[simonh]

I think the only purpose for the angle on the ends of the profile of the CMS version is if you use a CMS saw module and have the blade tilted at 45 degrees. For router use it doesn't matter.

 

[FestitaMakool]

It depends in which way you’ll use it on the GE. For routing the included fence with slanted ends and the mitre gauge is adequate. However, with the sliding table you might do for some applications with the MFT fence, if the stock is long and narrow. In this setup you could make use of the sliding end stop to assure ie a dado is done repeatedly.
But it is very difficult to imagine how you intend using the MFT fence without explaining. [smile]

 

[ElectricFeet]

I think the only purpose for the angle on the ends of the profile of the CMS version is if you use a CMS saw module and have the blade tilted at 45 degrees. For router use it doesn't matter.

Ah! Of course. I forgot that the CMS GE fence has to accommodate table saw use too. That explains it perfectly. Thanks [member=66875]simonh[/member] !

[member=71478]FestitaMakool[/member] [member=11629]GarryMartin[/member] Thanks for the further reassurance. Looks like I'm all set: off to order the table )