Got my first MFT/3 ...

[Kev]

I'm saying "first" because I get the impression that there'll be another in the not too distant future (a bare one).

I'm toying with the idea of wall brackets that'll fit into the back rail to make the MFT/3 solid at home. I've actually decided that I won't build a traditional work bench, but just stay with the Festool bench systems (storing sustainers below on the trolleys).

Next will probably be CMS toys, though the boom arm and VS600 were my original next targets.

Something CMS I won't be buying is the module storage unit - the profile on the frame is far too light ... very un-Festool !

Anyway - just re-watched several MFT/3 setup youtubes (including Paul Marcel's customisation and QWAS dog ones) ... I think the Christmas tree is going to look really good decorated in Festool clamps, QWAS dogs, etc  [big grin]

 

[Kristian]

Congrats, Kev! I know you're gonna enjoy it - I am! Hesitated a bit to get it since it was a bit pricey and I don't have much storage room for it when not in use. But I had a larger kitchen install coming up and I knew the MFT would be very handy to have during the entire project. So I took the plunge and haven't looked back.  [smile]

The endless posibilities of clamping down elements to the table is just priceless. I have 6 clamps for the table as of now but I'm sure I'll find an excuse to buy some more.  [wink]

- Kristian

 

[MrToolJunkie]

Congratulations, Kev.  The MFT/3 is easily the most used Festool I own as it is used on every project.  I would recommend the Cross Members to add some rigidity if you have not already done so...I find that they really increase the overall stability.  I think that 3 MFT/3's would be ideal or possibly even 4 if you have the room -- three can be configured nicely for pretty much any cutting task and having one dedicated for assembly or sanding/finishing would be great too.

Scot

 

[erock]

Great pick up Kev.  I love my MFT's.  I must admit that just yesterday, I had a huge brain fat!!

I have a 8 foot solid door as a worktop/counter top in my shop.  With some Kreg bench top clamping brackets mortised into the top of the door.  I have used this door for a number of years before I received my MFT's.  Yesterday, I needed to use my Domino for a project and for some reason, I was trying to clamp my work piece to my old door/workbench.  It was driving me crazy!  And then, I turned around to grab something and I remember.....I have 2 MFT tables that I could use!  I just about hit myself over the head with the clamp I had in my hand. 

When I bought my first MFT I had no idea how useful and how much I would use it.  It is the center piece of my shop.  I just wish I had 4 more!! 

Enjoy! 

Eric

 

[Steve R]

I'm saying "first" because I get the impression that there'll be another in the not too distant future (a bare one)....

....Anyway - just re-watched several MFT/3 setup youtubes (including Paul Marcel's customisation and QWAS dog ones) ... I think the Christmas tree is going to look really good decorated in Festool clamps, QWAS dogs, etc  [big grin]

Kev,

You will enjoy it and yes....they are just like chips can't just eat one....you want more and really need another to do it all.

I have had one for more than a year and found all the reviews, set ups and usage all helpful. I work on site and so ever getting it home to fully test and set up is rare. Also the retailer it was purchased from At the time we were new to Festool....and didn't know that the retailer was staffed by internal FesFOOLS and their name rimes with hockler.  Let me just say don't ever believe a sales person that says slide the rail camps in from the right side.... it makes your first impression of the table a very bad experience.

I have just been setting up. I'm at this time putting together a review and feed back about the whole setup info out there.

Most is very good Paul Marcel's review is great for how to use it and how to modify it but he talking about the older table.  The mods can happen but there are some issues when you transfer it to the MFT/3.  Sparktrician's conversion to the MFT/3 gets you almost there but doesn't take in to account adding the bench tape or the out feed fence with bench tape.  

The other aspect that is not taken into account in the review is if you work on location. How do you do all this in the least time and how do you pack and transport all the stuff from site to site and so you don't damage it and don't need a moving company to get you there.  

Cheers,
Steve

 

[Vindingo]

Clamping elements and quick clamps are a must.  They both seem expensive until you use them, but are worth their weight in gold. 

 

[Kev]

Clamping elements and quick clamps are a must.  They both seem expensive until you use them, but are worth their weight in gold. 

Just grabbed some of those sneaky little black levers on the way into the office  [smile]

Unfortunately for my wallet, my Festool/Protool/etc dealer is open early, is only 5 minutes from home and I almost have to drive by his door to get to work!

I need to find some local 20mm bench dogs ... or pay a visit to a friend with a lathe  (with some 25~30mm stock in hand) !

 

[festooltim]

If you get a second one I strongly suggest you get the full package. It is worth the extra money. I didn't on mine and have regretted that.

 

[Kev]

If you get a second one I strongly suggest you get the full package. It is worth the extra money. I didn't on mine and have regretted that.

I was actually asking the local Festool guy if I could get a bare MFT/3 and it seems it's not a standard line in Oz ... only the MFT/KAPEX comes bare.

In my current workspace another MFT/3 and a CMS extension would probably be the workable limit - or I'd have to stop swinging the cat!

 

[GPowers]

If you get a second one I strongly suggest you get the full package. It is worth the extra money. I didn't on mine and have regretted that.

Plus one here

The price difference is about $100 dollars. So if you buy and extra flag stop your half way there, and you will want the additional fence if you are cross cutting stock that requires two MFT/3.

 

[Kev]

If you get a second one I strongly suggest you get the full package. It is worth the extra money. I didn't on mine and have regretted that.

Plus one here

The price difference is about $100 dollars. So if you buy and extra flag stop your half way there, and you will want the additional fence if you are cross cutting stock that requires two MFT/3.

I'll certainly get the full MFT/3 when I get a second one.

Got all my clamps now - just trying to find some bench dogs locally ... may need to get them from the US - shame the post is more than they're worth, but I can't be bothered getting them made locally.

 

[GreenGA]

If you have a Black & Decker outlet near you  [huh], they sell some inexpensive red plastic dogs that are designed to work with their workmates but work perfectly in my MFT/3.

Last year I picked up a couple 4-packs for about $3.00 each and they work just fine.  Not as high quality as others available, but for what I paid, I am happy.  [smile]

I'll certainly get the full MFT/3 when I get a second one.

Got all my clamps now - just trying to find some bench dogs locally ... may need to get them from the US - shame the post is more than they're worth, but I can't be bothered getting them made locally.