BMH said:
Peter,
Another good job on the review of the Centrotec system. It was only when I got the Centrotec installer kit that I realized that the Festool drills is only half as good without them. Buying the pieces one by one doesn't do justice to the System and if you build or install cabinetry it is a must have piece of kit. I regret that Festool sells the 5mm self centering drill bit by itself and not part of the installer kit as it is very helpful when installing sliders.
The Zobo bit with the guide pin or drill bit permit you to come in at an precise angle this is very helpful in a certain number of project.
Price wise for $475 at the time, I got 90% of drilling needs taken care for and have discarded most of other bits little by little as you find out how terrible they are.
Bruce
Hi Bruce, Mick, Alex and Frank (and others above)
Many thanks for the kind words.
Up until about a year ago I believed that Centrotec was a way for Festool to generate additional revenue from the sale of drills and drivers. Then, at a show, someone pointed out the extra contact area of Centrotec bits and tools within the Centrotec chuck and then the penny dropped. It is a clever design that ensures positive hold, smaller size and lighter weight.
I saw the diagram on which my illustrations are based on the Festool UK web site. I asked their permission to use it and then made some variations, using Photoshop, to convey the various points.
I was not asked to make this video but, after my own early misconceptions, wanted to explain the engineering behind the Centrotec design. I did not intend it to be a means to encourage people to buy the various sets of Centrotec gear but I did have to show the range of items available. So, if I have dented your credit card or wallet I apologise.
On the one man production side - I have a huge advantage in that I am no longer in full time work and can afford to indulge my various passions - woodwork, technology and photography. I have turned down several attempts to commercialise my work and an offer to become a paid presenter. My overarching concern is that I would lose editorial control and probably be made to say something that I did not truly believe. My "Golden Rule" will always stand - I have to be able to recommend a tool, process or design to my very best friend before the video gets made. I am getting well over 100,000 hits a month on YouTube and have over 8,000 subscribers but those figures are puny compared to the giants in the video making game.
As for the music - I have asked my son several times to record another tune but he is far too busy at the moment. I will see what I can arrange. In the meantime, at least it satisfies the Scott Joplin fans !
Peter
