MFT style portable table?

[ColossusX]

Is there any table similar to the MFT? I know I can make one, but worried I wont be precise enough for what I need to do. Basically I cant justify the cost of an actual MFT but I use a portable table everyday, a Husky from HD.  But clamping is limited. 

An alternative could be to buy an MFT replacement slab, and build some sort of folding legs.  But the vertical clamping would be great to have.

 

[grobkuschelig]

I built a „box“ out of MDF which I put on top of sawhorses that take the machine adapters/holders you can get for miter saws.

Keeps it mobile and is easily customizable.
Found the idea here on the forum.

Works great and should turn out a little cheaper than an MFT.
Also my MFT is more sturdy.
But as a mobile workbench, I now rely on the different versions I built for the sawhorses (1x box, with vertical clamping, 1x flat board, can also double as extension for miter saw).

Need to check if I have a picture...

 

[Stone Message]

I started with just a pair of folding trestles that I made and used a part sheet of Medite MR MDF on top. I had three or four 50 mm x 50 mm bracing pieces under the MDF.

Warning: Blatant product promotion below...

In order to create the pattern of 20 mm holes check out the Parf Guide System. It is available in the US through TSO and in Canada through Lee Valley. If you are elsewhere then start with Axminster Tools and Machinery here in the UK. They deliver world wide.

Peter

 

[grobkuschelig]

BTW:
I used the Parf Guide System to create the holes... [emoji56]

Blatant product endorsement. [emoji51]

 

[ColossusX]

I've looked at the Parf guide.  Looks like it would do the trick.  I know Kreg makes some aluminum tracks, looks like they're intended for horizontal work, but might work vertically on the sides of a table box for vertical clamping

 

[waho6o9]

I built this a while back but have since taken it apart and use both on a Walko IV  on Stanley horses.

View attachment 1

 

[Svar]

http://festoolownersgroup.com/member-projects/my-new-folding-workbench-i'm-after-some-feedback!/msg474759

 

[gunnyr]

I can't speak highly enough about the Parf Guide System to drill an extremely accurate grid of 20mm holes.  I have built both a [member=6227]crpaulk[/member] Paulk Compact Workbench and the [member=10829]Timtool[/member] MFTC Tool Cart using the Parf Guide to drill the holes.

MFTC Tool Cart
[attachimg=1]

Paulk Compact Workbench
[attachimg=2]

I also have two MFT/3 tables........ 

In my quest for the perfect saw horses I recently purchased a Bora Centipede Sawhorse.  I will likely create a cut station top with the Parf Guide system to use on it.

In terms of cost, the Centipede system is by far the cheapest.  Including a sheet of MDF, the Centipede, and the Parf Guide system I would put the cost at around $225.  The Paulk Bench and the MFTC will both take a certain amount of time to make; that time must be factored into the cost.  IHMHO the MFT/3 is the cheapest, most cost effective way to go to create a portable, stable work surface.  That said I would say that I use them all in equal amounts, they each do things that make them a great part of my tool kit.  The ability to clamp work in the middle of the tops is what I love about the 20mm hole system.

 

[TealaG]

I bought replacement MFT panels from Amazon.  I even found a warehouse deals one, which was opened and returned.  It was banged up at the edge, but I think I saved 20% and if you really wanted "pristine", you could chop off 1/4" off the edge and it would have been "new" again. 

Then, I might try to make hollow square legs from hardwood, drill out holes for the vertical clamping.  I would cover the end and add a tnut at the end.  Drill holes for a countersunk screw in the MFT panel and then screw into the tnut.  There are probably better leg designs, but effectively, a removable or folding leg on an MFT top would work.

BTW...I'm sure you've heard this many times but...take the time to put a clear coat on that panel!  I learned the hard way.  Put the clear coat on.  It's worth the time. 

 

[ColossusX]

I love the Paulk tables.  I've been checking out the Centipede sawhorse units.  My local HD has them in stock.  With the Parf guide, it seems to be the least expensive route.  Albeit without a vertical clamping system. 

 

[waho6o9]

"BTW...I'm sure you've heard this many times but...take the time to put a clear coat on that panel!  I learned the hard way.  Put the clear coat on.  It's worth the time."

Wise ^^