Return to Economical alternative to the Multi Purpose Routing MFS CONCLUSION

[woodwreck]

I think I'll justify in a different direction.

I own the MFS. I like the MFS. I use the MFS.

I also own an 80/20 big book catalog, and I have several ideas for how to use their product. I love 80/20. Pure and simple.

The last time I went to a "woodworking show," I was about ready to start stabbing people. I saw literally acres of plain-jane, raw and anodized T-track that is sized for 1/4-20 and 5/16" bolts. And everyone is going gaga making jigs out of this very limited paradigm, with very little attempt to break out of that mold. I get it, it's cheap, and it's what everyone knows. And that's why Kreg gets away with charging a psychotic premium for a 2' length of L-shaped T-track made into a crosscut fence. Don't get me wrong, I love Kreg, too.

But 80/20 provides the opportunity to be creative and design and build jigs, fences, etc, etc, for less than a finished product that has to be marketed and merchandised, as demonstrated here. In this instance, the virtue of the idea is that anyone can build an MFS-like structure in any configuration... any length we want, with as many pieces as we want. And if we need one that joins at 30 degrees, or 60 degrees, that's possible. If you wanted to make an 8 foot long, angled MFS with multiple cross-pieces that were angled and proportioned to crank out stair stringers at production speeds, you can do that.

I'm not saying that it's noble to knock off an existing product. It's not. But I do think that it's good to be familiar with the available resources that are out there for serious jig and fixture making, and to not be shy about putting them to use.

James - hooray for your comments particularly the last paragraph - That's all I tried to say in the opening and I stated no criticism intended of any existing product. These forums need more of your perspective!   [thumbs up]

 

[woodwreck]

A note to any forumites who have suggested it is inappropriate to offer an alternative thought on the Festool-provided forum, and particulalry to the fine folks at Festool present...

My earlier comment that I am indeed a Faster, Smarter, Easier advocate of the first order has been lost particularly after 30 years' former servitude in the process manufacturing and related industry. I own a half-dozen Festool sanders, Domino, Kapex, and more in my bag.

I emphasized that this was for the information of the user needing selected limited features. Numerous parties have replied positively here and privately. As one stated, I view this with more respect for the manufacfturer as truth in lending, knowing I am not getting stuck with extra expense for items I do not need, and the resulting bad taste for their future sales consideration. Eighteen mos. ago I had never heard of Festool. Mr. Watriss summed it all up well.

A better buying decision after the fact results in long term brand loyalty, marketing people will tell you. We are NOT hawking cheaper deals, but a better product mix. I am indebted to the Festool people for the prodicts and professionalism. Thanks for your time, everyone.   [2cents]

 

[woodwreck]

Woodwreck,
 Also, can you post pics of your anti-tip block?  Does it operate similarly to Festool's (attach to router base and swivel)?

Joe

My Senior Moment- sorry. You refer to the anti tip made for the MFS which a catalog I saw said is discontinued. I also told you just whack a 1" block of plastic. Wrong again,  THE ANSWER is to use the anti-tip made for the router such as the 1400, See User Guide to 1400 page 19 and you are all set if you have that gadget.