General International is introducing a beefy 5/8-in. benchtop hollow-chisel mortiser (model 75-040 M1) that looks to have some real convenient features for woodworkers.

• The head, column, and base are all heavy cast iron, which should help dampen vibration
• The head slides on dovetail ways, which helps eliminate any slop, and the stroke is controlled by a gas head-cylinder, for smooth operation
• A dual depth stop controls both up and down travel, a convenient feature that could help you save time when your punching out a bunch of mortises
• A large handle that can be switched to either side for lefties and righties
• A large, easy to see switch on the front
• A big table (14 1/4 in. by 11 1/8 in.) with pull-out extensions to support long workpieces
• And a convenient tool holder, so you’ll never have to search for bits and wrenches

The mortiser has a 1/2 hp, 110-volt motor and is available now, for $400. For a list of distributors, visit General International’s website.

We’re sending one of these to one of our tool experts, Rollie Johnson, to test for the Tools & Materials department. Rollie will be happy to see it on his front porch when he gets back from vacation.

 

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