Maximum size raised panel bits in OF 1400

[nadsab]

Hi,

For 1/2" shank bits, many manufacturers of large raised panel bit sets recommend that they only be used in stationary routers i.e. in a router table.  Does Festool have a recommendation here for the 1400 with such bits?

 

[greg mann]

Festool sells a modular router table that is one component of a system but it is not available in America at this tme. There is some evidence that it may become available soon. They do have a RT module that attaches to the MFT/3 that will hopefully be available here soon as well. That may be a consideration for you to factor in to your angst about the changes Festool made when they upgraded the design of their tables.

 

[nadsab]

Well, I already have a router table with a big Porter Cable router mounted in, so I don't need another stationary unit -  was just looking for a good hand held unit so I don't ever have to take the stationary router out of table.  I bought it the same time I bought the Festool setup at the woodworking show in Dec '06.

Actually, if I remember correctly, the festool rep told me the day I bought everything, that Festool was coming out with the modular router table in early 2007.  So if it has not come out yet, it may never come out, maybe a problem with UL approval and a safety issue?  I was thinking I could use the 1400 for raised panels too, instead of just a hand held for doing flush trim work and other stuff and take the load off the big router.

Anyway, I am assuming by your answer, that Festool does not recommend using large raised panel bits in their 1040 with the 700 Multi-Routing Template, unless router is mounted in the modular router table?   Which would mean that no one in the US should be routing raised panels with large bits in Festool routers ?  Someone please correct me if I am wrong?

 

[greg mann]

Well, I already have a router table with a big Porter Cable router mounted in, so I don't need another stationary unit -  was just looking for a good hand held unit so I don't ever have to take the stationary router out of table. 

I would say you have raised an issue for which you already have your answer. Raised panels on your table and any other work you want out of the table, up to the size bit that will fit through the existing opening in your OF1400, but probably not raised panels, unless you are more adventurous than the rest of us.