JonathanJung
Member
- Joined
- Apr 7, 2018
- Messages
- 257
Tom Gensmer said:Jonathan,
One machine that hasn't been mentioned are portable band saws. These machines are designed explicitly for the application you're describing (precise, scrolling cuts in thick timbers), and while they're not inexpensive they'd likely served you better than a jig saw in the long term. I had an opportunity to try the Mafell Z5 when I took the training a few years ago, it's very intuitive and very precise. There is a local timber framer who uses one and just loves it.
https://www.timberwolftools.com/mafell-z5ec-portable-band-saw
To those who would scoff at the price, let's remember the OP is a professional asking about a heavy duty application, thus I am suggesting a professional piece of equipment.
Alternatively, is there a scenario where you could prepare 3/4" MDF templates for your cuts, rough-cut the finished pieces on a band saw, then use a shaper with a copy ring and spiral cutter to complete the finished pieces? I do this regularly for curved work and find it much easier.....
This was a very nice suggestion. I asked the president of Timberwolf about it, and the two issues are:
blade kerf - so narrow I'd be hard-pressed to split my joint
distance between the blades is only 6"