Replies

1. 
   jackplane | Apr 26, 2004 09:48pm | #1

   I'd go with traditional cutters. Replacement knives are less expensive, but unless you torque them to their specified settings, it's possible they could loosen while in use.

    Generally, 1/8 th less, each side, than your max width should be fine, which allows just under 1/4 seasonal expansion. Don't nail the panels, they are meant to float in the frame.That means no glue either. The finish will keep them in alignment.

2. 
   Michmesquite | Apr 26, 2004 11:12pm | #2

   I wouldn't hestiate using the newer style insert tooling. Take a look at the new Freud sets, RS2000 and RP2000. They are very pricey at $600 & $265 respectively but they do what you want to do. CMT also has a good starter set at less than $200.

   Also, I would recommend against a shaper with less than a 3/4" spindle. Try to find a make that has swappable 3/4", 30mm and 1 1/4" spindles. I would also stay away from anything with less than 3HP.

   __________________________________________________________

   Michael in San Jose

   Freedom from mental disturbance is the very most for which one can hope.

    Epicurus (341-270 BCE)

3. 
   RickL | Apr 27, 2004 03:09am | #3

   If you look at the numbers I think you will find the replacable cutter type the best way to go. For the small furniture maker it's the most bang for the buck. CMT has quite a selection while the LRH Magic Moulder has a shaper and tablesaw head that take interchangable cutters. The nice thing about the saw is one blade can be set to many angles thus one cutter becomes many. Also cuting coves with a moulding head is much nicer. Pretty safe as it has a pin in the middle to keep it from flying off. Insert tooling is a whole different type of tooling.

   http://www.woodtechtooling.com/Magic_Molder/magic_molder.html

   http://www.cmtusa.com/store/index1.ihtml?x_page=store.ihtml&parentid=&menuinclude=leftnav_products.ihtml&id=CID1114607509&step=2