Question on Domino - Do I still need a biscuit joiner?

[The Next Level]

My question is... Do I still need my biscuit jointer? Couldn't think of an instance where it would be preferred over the Domino? Input?

 

[semenza]

Biscuit joiner is not needed if you have the Domino. A biscuit joiner is a bit faster and more forgiving (alignment) for edge gluing boards into a panel. But I kept my joiner for a little over a year after buying the Domino and never used it. And I havn't wanted since I sold it several years ago.

The other possible reason to keep it would be for using special hardware that fits into biscuit slots.

Seth

 

[The Next Level]

I got ya! They have deck fastener ect.. I think I will sell it though. Way too many tools that I would need maybe someday? Thanks Seth

 

[Stephen B]

Biscuit joiner is not needed if you have the Domino. A biscuit joiner is a bit faster and more forgiving (alignment) for edge gluing boards into a panel. But I kept my joiner for a little over a year after buying the Domino and never used it. And I havn't wanted since I sold it several years ago.

The other possible reason to keep it would be for using special hardware that fits into biscuit slots.

Seth

And if you have a router you can buy biscuit slot cutters for routers.

Eg.
http://www.cmtutensili.com/show_items.asp?pars=RB~822~2

 

[sancho57]

I forgot I even had a biscuit jointer. Until I was looking through my shop hunting for something. I gave it away along with a bunch of other things.

 

[John Stevens]

The other possible reason to keep it would be for using special hardware that fits into biscuit slots.

I like to use the Lamello hinges.  I also like to have it around for odd jobs--I've run into a couple situations where it was the best tool for sawing or grooving.  Not sorry I've kept mine.  [smile]

Regards,

John

 

[crpaulk]

If you already have a biscuit jointer, hang on to it. I have the Domino and use it for any demanding joinery, but in many situations biscuits work just as well and are faster, i.e., counter sub tops.

Ron

 

[justinh]

I own both and would not get rid of either.  There is overlap in their function but each shines over the other in certain situations.  I prefer biscuits for casing miters, plinth to and head to casing joints, and use a butt joint with biscuits for base and crown splices as the shorter length and additional wiggle room in the joint allows for easier fitting on the wall.  The specialty biscuits like the Lamello fixo or K-20 clamping biscuits make the machine worth holding onto. I assembled two 36' beam bottoms for a long coffer ceiling today using a combination of #20s, Fixos, and West Systems G5 epoxy.  I frequently use the K-20s for installs with a no visible fastener spec. They are great for soffit covers, wall caps, etc.

The biscuit joiner is also great for cuts in tight areas referenced off a straight edge where a track saw or circular saw with shoot board would be impractical.

The CMT biscuit bit is outstanding. I use it so often it has its own dedicated router. When attaching face frames  I run a slot down the front of the  case side and use the biscuit joiner to cut slots into the back of the face frame. I do something similar with shelf nosings.

In the shop I use a Lamello or the Domino. In situations where they overlap I usually use which ever is closer.  In the field I use a PC 557 which is also accurate.

 

[TinyTiger]

I got rid of mine after buying my Domino and haven't missed it at all.  I guess it depends on what types of projects you want to make.

 

[Samo]

I own both and would not get rid of either.  There is overlap in their function but each shines over the other in certain situations.  I prefer biscuits for casing miters, plinth to and head to casing joints, and use a butt joint with biscuits for base and crown splices as the shorter length and additional wiggle room in the joint allows for easier fitting on the wall.  The specialty biscuits like the Lamello fixo or K-20 clamping biscuits make the machine worth holding onto. I assembled two 36' beam bottoms for a long coffer ceiling today using a combination of #20s, Fixos, and West Systems G5 epoxy.  I frequently use the K-20s for installs with a no visible fastener spec. They are great for soffit covers, wall caps, etc.

This is my opinion as well.  I was using high quality biscuit joiners long before the Domino.  I love my Domino and it gives me good structural quality joints.  My biscuit joiner is just the better tool in curtain situations.

Like Justin, I do allot of trim and install details for Primary Contractors and they don't always care about the best sequence for the installer.  Always best to have different methods of attack if you work on site.

Sam

 

[tiralie]

I own both and would not get rid of either.  There is overlap in their function but each shines over the other in certain situations.  I prefer biscuits for casing miters, plinth to and head to casing joints, and use a butt joint with biscuits for base and crown splices as the shorter length and additional wiggle room in the joint allows for easier fitting on the wall.  The specialty biscuits like the Lamello fixo or K-20 clamping biscuits make the machine worth holding onto. I assembled two 36' beam bottoms for a long coffer ceiling today using a combination of #20s, Fixos, and West Systems G5 epoxy.  I frequently use the K-20s for installs with a no visible fastener spec. They are great for soffit covers, wall caps, etc.

The biscuit joiner is also great for cuts in tight areas referenced off a straight edge where a track saw or circular saw with shoot board would be impractical.

The CMT biscuit bit is outstanding. I use it so often it has its own dedicated router. When attaching face frames  I run a slot down the front of the  case side and use the biscuit joiner to cut slots into the back of the face frame. I do something similar with shelf nosings.

In the shop I use a Lamello or the Domino. In situations where they overlap I usually use which ever is closer.  In the field I use a PC 557 which is also accurate.

[thumbs up] justinh has got it right, couldn't agree more. Well done!
The Domino is a great tool and there is no substitute for it, but a biscuit joiner and the Lamello Fixo's etc. are great solutions for on site and shop joinery.
If you want the flexibility a biscuit joiner gives you, keep it.
Tim