Replies

1. 
   RickL | Dec 13, 2004 02:26pm | #1

   Based on the reputation of Invicta over the years I would say it's most likely a decent tool. They made sliding table saws, jointers, and planers for Delta years ago and they are still in service. I've been fortunate enough to actually work and service them over the years and they are well made and hold up well. I remember seeing the slot mortiser a short while back when it was priced only at $1,600. If you do the research you will find other slot mortisers start at $3,500 and up. The Paolini is another at around $3,500 and is available with tilting tables for more money which in my opinion is worth it. There's also Laguna, Knapp, Rojek (kind of chintzy for the money, I think the Grizzly G0540 is probalbly comparable for $330 delivered, at least in terms of fit and finish)Griggio, SCM, Hammer, Felder and a few others to compare. Unfortunately FWW doesn't seem to really grasp the signifigance of the slot mortiser and the concept of loose tenons and has barely touched upon the subject except in reviewing the Multi-router and the Wirth machine awhile back. You might try posing the question on the pro forums such as woodweb or I would call Invicta and get a list of some folks who bought the mortiser and ask them directly how they like it.

1. 
   FineBlade | Dec 13, 2004 03:52pm | #2

   Thanks for your informative answer. I have been doing the research, looking hard for used machines, but the only used ones available are mostly double spindle, more machine and money than I need. The new machines all seem to be $3500 and up, plus freight, except the Rojek and the Invicta. As you mentioned, the Rojek doesn't sound like a good value, thus my inquiry about the invicta. Unfortunately the best current price i have found for the Invicta is $2500 plus freight, which i assume will be $200 to $300. I have never seen one, so thanks again for your insight, and the suggestion to find and contact owners. regards, daniel

1. 
   RickL | Dec 13, 2004 05:46pm | #3

   I've been using slot mortisers for 20 years now and all the shop near me have one brand or another so I've been able to try most of them first hand. There's also the Laguna/Robland model which is basically the slot mortiser table from the combo machine mounted seperately and a motor or router is added. Plus the Grizzly G-0540 at $330 delivered is looking good. I've also converted old handmils into them so I've pretty much covered all the options over the years.

2. 
   RickL | Dec 13, 2004 11:25pm | #4

   http://www.atlanticmach.com/standard/misc.html

   Check out the Paolini. I'm sure you have checked out the ones at Laguna. Used slot mortisers are very scarce so you will wait a long time. I've been sort of looking for 20 years and have never seen one used except for a couple of Multi-routers. I used to work for an equipment dealer and get all kinds of used machine trade periodicals. It's a very specialized tool and still not really known about by most woodworkers. 

1. 
   FineBlade | Dec 14, 2004 04:01am | #5

   Thanks again, I am still chasing down info on the invicta, and the Grizzly is looking better and better. regards, daniel

1. 
   corners | Dec 14, 2004 06:26pm | #6

   Go here:

   http://www.invicta-usa.com/mortisers1.html