Why I Love the MFT/3

[Kristian]

That's cool, Peter. Thanks for checking!

I just ordered an MFT/3 last week and I'll probably get it tomorrow. I'm really looking forward to it. The ability to clamp workpieces basically all over the MFT was one of the things that won me over.

- Kristian

 

[ScotF]

The MFT/3 is awesome...I was able to pick one up used for a good price and it really does make all the difference using the tools.  Being able to clamp things in different configurations for sanding, etc... is amazing.  I have a big solid hardwood bench too and the MFT/3 really supplements it and it excels at power tool use.  BTW, I really like the cross member to increase rigidity.  I have used it both ways and find the that cross members do add a lot of stability.

Scot

 

[Kristian]

Scot, with the cross members installed is the MFT then stable enough to work with hand planes on work pieces clamped on the side or top? Or do you prefer the hardwood bench for that?

- Kristian

 

[ScotF]

Hi Kristian,

I have done some light planing with a shoulder plane or block plane on the MFT, but I really prefer my traditional workbench for planing -- there is too much racking when planing, especially difficult woods and the MFT is not the best work table for this kind of use.  It excels as a glueing/finishing/sawing/sanding/routing/drilling/assembly work surface and the cross-members add a lot of rigidity IMHO.  Don't get me wrong, the MFT is solid without the cross-members...it is just even more solid with them, but it would not be my first choice for hand planing.

Scot

 

[Kristian]

Thanks Scot.

To be fair I wouldn't demand that from the MFT since I know it's not the purpose for which it was invented. I'm really looking forward to using it as my go-to table for every assembly, clamping, routing, finishing and sketching job. (Which until now has been done mostly on the floor...)

- Kristian

 

[Corwin]

To be fair I wouldn't demand that from the MFT since I know it's not the purpose for which it was invented. I'm really looking forward to using it as my go-to table for every assembly, clamping, routing, finishing and sketching job. (Which until now has been done mostly on the floor...)

Sketching?  On the MFT?  Oh, I get it -- connect the dots.  [tongue]

 

[Kristian]

He he - exactly!  [big grin]

 

[Kristian]

Got the MFT/3 yesterday and coupled with a pair of quick clamps + two regular Festool clamps it seems like a very versatile setup.

The ability to clamp workpieces to the side of the MFT is brilliant.

- Kristian

 

[davee]

I have had an MFT for some time (resisted buying it for a long time) and really came to like it.  However, I recently purchased a second table and have them connected end-to-end.  This makes is wonderful as an outfeed table, and extra space to assemble while cutting on the other table. However, the greatest value to me is the added stability provided.  This morning, I was using the table to hand plane and realized how stable it really is.  If you have room, the second table is great.  I am designing a new shop and look forward to enouogh room for a third - then no more.