Replies

1. 
   RickL | May 02, 2004 09:40pm | #1

   I wouldn't recommend either one. I would suggest getting a good book on router tips. As far as edge guide I think you can make a much more suitable one from scraps. A standard technique is to make a t-sqare from plywood or what have you. When you make a test cut you will plow a groove in the t part of the guide which will serve as a reference to line up the guide for future cuts. The T style keeps it lined up square and it's very simple to use. All you need is a couple of clamps to hold it in place which you should already have.

2. 
   Jeff | May 03, 2004 02:32pm | #2

   Wendy

   You could go to the Hardware store and buy a piece of Aluminum Angle in about 6 or 8 ft long.

   I prefer the 1 1/2 inch stuff,  in 1/4 inch.

   It's cheap, quick, and works as good as the ones you buy.

   Just clamp it on and you have a straight edge to rout against.

   Just check for flex first, so you know how hard you can push against it.

   Jeff

1. 
   Robbie | May 03, 2004 06:06pm | #3

   I am not a big fan of the clamp guides either.  The guides move just a little bit even after they are securely clamped down. 

   I have had better luck with the blue plastic and aluminum guides from Peachtree in Atlanta.  They don't seem to move like the common ones that are sold everywhere.  They also have a ruled tape and a T-slot across the top which makes them a bit more functional, for example if you want to attach a stop.

   The best is to make a really good T-square version from some MDF and a piece of hardwood - depending on how long they have to be.

2. 
   patternmaker | May 03, 2004 07:45pm | #5

   Jeff: Be advised that the hardware store variety of aluminum shapes is likely not as straight as you would like. After the extruding process,the shapes for basic construction ,do not go thru the straightening process as do those designed for tooling.When cooling down, the angle shapes,tend to develope a curve along the edges due to the shrinkage of the metal.The flat shapes of the straight edges in the catalogs,being of more equal cross sections,are much less likely to distort in cooling. Also,these extrusions are gripped on each end and strecthed to the point that they remain relatively straight and even.If you are not familiar with the process,think of it as squeezing tooth paste out of the tube.

   Work safely¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬PAT¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬

1. 
   Jeff | May 04, 2004 03:16am | #6

   Pat

   Never thought about it.

   I'll need to look at a piece.

   Jeff

3. 
   RoyinMD | May 03, 2004 07:24pm | #4

   Wendy,

   I bought a set of 5 Clamp n Tool Guides at a WW show years ago. Love them, use them all the time with the skill saw and router.

   Before those I used the extruded aluminum straight edge used for scoring drywall. Two pieces about 54" each and a splice to connect them end to end. Still use it for work over 50". I'll guess $20 as a current price.

   Enjoy, Roy