Replies

1. 
   Buster2000 | Oct 19, 2006 05:15pm | #1

   I used 1/2" Baltic Birch on my newest sled and have had no problems with flatness.  It was a large sled, so the thinner material saved on weight.  I suppose it also allows me to cut a little thicker material...

1. 
   CJH | Oct 19, 2006 06:19pm | #3

   How large of a sled? What's the capacity?

2. 
   Ricks503 | Oct 19, 2006 05:41pm | #2

   It will be the fence/stiffeners that will hold it flat.  Go with the 1/2" and maybe consider adding a plexi/acrlyic guard to cover the blade path

    

    

   " There'll be no living with her now" - Captain Jack Sparrow

3. 
   Rich14 | Oct 19, 2006 06:46pm | #4

   Regarding Rick's suggestion to consider adding a plexi cover - don't consider it, do it.

   Rich

4. 
   jackplane | Oct 19, 2006 06:56pm | #5

   I've used 1/4"- no problem.

   As stated above, it's the runners and perpendicular front and rear crossbars that provide strength.

    

1. 
   tcbaldmtn | Oct 19, 2006 10:58pm | #6

   I have a General 650 and I'm going to make it almost the size of the cast iron table.  Looks like I'll go with the 1/2".  Thanks!!!

1. 
   Ardmore | Oct 24, 2006 09:15pm | #7

   Has anyone tried MDF for the base?  Just wondered if it might be more resistant to movement from moisture/humidity?

   Ardmore

1. 
   Buster2000 | Oct 24, 2006 10:10pm | #8

   I used it for my first sled.  It worked well, but was too heavy.  I wouldn't use it again, at least not for a large sled.

   Edited 10/24/2006 5:51 pm ET by Buster2000

2. 
   BG | Oct 25, 2006 12:43am | #9

   Ardmore,
   I use 1/2" MDF..works fine...not too heavy.

3. 
   Steve Swantee | Oct 25, 2006 03:39pm | #10

   I've used 1/2 inch MDF for my sleds as well. Works great, slides easily, and not too heavy. I would definitely use it again.

   Steve