Domino 500 / standard 5mm cutter

[ElCabong]

Hello. I'm new to FOG and a new Festool owner. I am a hobbyist and have used the normal woodworking tools (portable table saw, router table, pocket hole, etc). However I recently purchased the TS-55REQ and CT-Midi. Sadly I have only used the CT-Midi to vacuum my home  [embarassed] but I have a large project coming up and am excited to break down large sheets of plywood.

I just attended a demo at my local Woodcraft store and was set to purchase an MFT-3 until I saw the Domino 500 demonstration. Curse you Festool! Lars did a great job and I ended up purchasing the Domino 500 Q set. It has a 5mm cutter that comes standard.

A simple question however. Why a 5mm cutter? Can I use it on 1/2 and 3/4 plywood for now? I have read extensively about Domino sizing and the 1/3 rule and will eventually purchase the Domino kit with all the sizes and cutters however can I get by using this size until my better half has time to calm down after dropping $$$ in the last two weeks!? Thanks.

 

[Theshipstore]

The 5mm works well on 1/2 and 3/4 sheet goods. you might also want to look at the Domni Plate from Seneca Wood working, its a great add on for the domino for doing carcase work

http://www.senecawoodworking.com/

Sal

 

[dpetrzelka]

I just recently picked up a Domino as well - you're going to love it. I've been using it to mock up some Shaker end tables to test our my sizing and proportions - making knocking it together so quick, and I feel confident using the Domino for the final build as well.

If you don't want to jump into the full kit right away I'd recommend at least adding the 10mm cutter - I've found that one very useful on 2x4 construction around the shop. Of course the kit would be ideal if you can.

My next bit will be the 4mm for smaller work.

 

[Administrator_JSVN]

Welcome to the forum and to the Festool family.

The 5mm cutter could be used for 1/2" material, but is best for 3/4" since its slightly more than 1/3 of the thickness of 1/2" (12mm). The 5mm is included because it works in the material used most commonly, 3/4" (or 18mm in Europe I think).

The other cutters are available separately if you just need one other size, like 4mm for 1/2" stock.

Shane

 

[semenza]

Welcome to the forum!  [smile]

Just don't plunge into the face of 1/2" with the normal depth setting of 15mm for the 5mm cutter. That will go right through.

Seth

 

[ElCabong]

I went and purchased a 4mm cutter for the 1/2 plywood / drawers. Hopefully this will suffice along with the 5mm to complete my project of garage cabinets and desk. Thank you all for the advice.