Q:

I want to buy a hollow-chisel mortiser, but I’d first like to know if this type of machine will cut a finished mortise consistently. Or will some handwork be necessary?

Daniel Montgomery, Hinsdale, IL

A:

If you set up the machine properly and use a well-tuned chisel, a hollow-chisel mortiser can cut accurate mortises of furniture quality. The only handwork needed may be some slight trimming. Make sure that the chisel is sharp and perfectly square to the fence, and that the drill bit extends 1/8 in. below the tip of the chisel for smooth cutting action.

Photo: Tom Begnal

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