Replies

1. 
   ruffcut | May 19, 2004 07:10am | #1

   I recently decided to get a mortise machine, and i looked at most of the options that fit my needs .     I looked at the bench top models, but the drawback to those  was the clamping methods they use.  they didn't hold the work very solid, and you had to unclamp and clamp after every hole.

   I have let price determine my purchases many times in the past, and almost every time I have regretted my decision.   I finally decided after looking at many models and styles of mortise machines to purchase a Powermatic model 719 floor model mortiser.  it was a lot of money, right around 800 bucks with the bits and all, but the machine works like a dream, it is easy to set up, it holds the piece solidly, and it is easy to move between holes, and has a large range of movement. 

   This might not be the answer for everyone, but I couldn't be happier, and now I don't miss the extra money at all.   I now make a lot of mortise and tenon joints that I otherwise would not make, just because it is so convenient and easy to do.

   Good luck whatever you decide.       Jack

2. 
   10fingers | May 19, 2004 10:51pm | #2

   Check out the grizzly website and look at item G0540.  It is a sinlge spindle boring machine for $275.00.  It looks pretty neat.   It looks like it would do all a hollow chisel machine would do and then some. 

1. 
   RickL | May 22, 2004 11:08pm | #4

   The G0540 appears to be a slot mortiser with the 6" of side travel for the table. It would appear the marketing people blew it and called it a single spindle boring machine. Vega and a few others have tried making inexpensive slot mortisers and have failed to entice users. Until the plaid guy on TV figures out what a slot mortiser is I think it will remain one of the best kept secrets of woodworking.

3. 
   jazzdogg | May 20, 2004 12:45am | #3

   " I get very clean mortises but have to square out the ends."

   PJ,

   Why not just round off the ends of your tenons?

   -Jazzdogg-

   Whether you think you can, or you think you can't, you're right.

4. 
   wood23guy | May 23, 2004 12:42am | #5

   I second the notion to go with the Powermatic floor machine.  Great clamping power, milling leverage, and very user friendly.  I have not even touched my older Delta bench model in years. 

   I manage and teach in a high school wood shop and have worked with many different skill levels.  The X and Y axiz travel on a floor model is just so much easier and faster to use than bench models.  Accuracy and safety are greater also. 

   And, they are a blast to use...almost as much fun as using an endmill for metal work.  Actually.....more fun, I still like the feel of wood in my hands over metal.