I would like to pose a question that, I think, will get a philosophical debate going.
I have noticed that most jig plans that use MFD specify 3/4 in thickness. Given the fact that a 4×8 sheet weighs about 100 lbs, it makes sense to me that 1/2 in would be the better choice.
Is there a practicle reason to use 3/4 or is it just habit?
Peter
Replies
How about "depends"? If it's a box type thing which wood will be clamped to in order to work the wood, 3/4 is a good choice. If I'm making a router template and using a bushing, I'd rather have 1/4. Granted 3/4 is heavier than 1/2, I don't think the price different is that great to warrant using thinner (1/2) material for a jig. But that's just a personal preference.
Scott
There's always ultralight...only 2/3's the weight of regular mdf
I have never seen ultralite. how does it compare to regular in terms of flatness, stability, etc?
Peter
LOL, yes there is a reason and it is simply because you need the stiffness. Most of the jigs that call for 3/4 do so because they need to maintain some sort of alignment or the jig would be worthless. 1/2" in most cases is just not stiff enough.
Steve - in Northern California
LOL?
I am so pleased that I was able to bring some amusment into your life!
On what do base your opinion?
Peter
Edited 5/20/2002 6:14:48 AM ET by nhlett
Jig materials.... If I could aford it, all of my jigs would be made from rock hard maple and not MDF at all. The reason I was laughing was because just yesterday I was building a new table saw sled and I used 1/2" MDF trippled up glued and screwed for the 1 1/2" thick fence. The plans called for doubled up 3/4" MDF. When I went to do the final adjustment before the glue set I put a clamp on one end and a spreader on the other. The dang thing just bowed in the middle. I ripped it off and made another out of 3/4" just like the plans said and it worked fine.Steve - in Northern California
Tru-pan/ultralight...same thing. Lighter with all the same qualitiies. I haven't used it as much as the regular MDF but looks good so far.
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