Replies

1. 
   BArnold | Sep 24, 2004 03:24pm | #1

   I've looked at the various items you mentioned, but have always thought them to be very expensive, especially compared to a scrap of plywood that would otherwise be thrown away.  I made a template with MDF, complete with adjusting screw locations.  A quick rough-out of a blank of 1/2" ply on the bandsaw and a pass over my router table with a bottom-bearing flush bit and I've got another plate for next to nothing.

   Regards,

   Bill Arnold - Custom Woodcrafting

   Food for Thought: The Ark was built by amateurs; the Titanic by professionals.

   ---

2. 
   nikkiwood | Sep 24, 2004 04:20pm | #2

   Sometime back, I bought one of those metal frames with wood inserts -- it was nearly $100, as I recall. At the time, it seemed like a great idea, since you could buy enough of the wood inserts (which were fairly cheap) to accommodate any blade and any size dado.

   The thing worked okay with standard ripping. But, I make both drawers and cabinets with a locked rabbet, which require very precise cuts. I had all kinds of trouble, because the inserts were always slightly higher or lower than the metal frame. Rather than diddle around with it, I gave it away, and went back to the more standard ZC inserts.

1. 
   bszydlo | Sep 24, 2004 05:39pm | #3

   Thanks for the advice.  The inserts do seem very pricey and I was concerned about the flatness of the surface.

3. 
   SEBDESN | Sep 26, 2004 04:04am | #4

   Find a solid surface shop and raid their trash can. Use a flush cutting bit to duplicate the original insert for your saw. Takes 15 minutes and is at least as good as anything you will buy... 

4. 
   Fingrs | Sep 27, 2004 06:16pm | #5

   I use scrap hardwood, usually hard maple, for TS inserts.  Since I'm too lazy to insert height adjustment screws, I plane the material to the desired thichness and make final adjustments (upwards) using electrical tape.  All the other advice here is right on.

   I too have considered "store bought" inserts, but they are way expensive in my view.