Replies

1. 
   UncleDunc | Dec 22, 2003 07:35am | #1

   >> What am I missing?

   The time it takes to change blades, unless you have the dado on a dedicated saw.

2. 
   TomMGTC | Dec 22, 2003 04:07pm | #2

   I prefer the tenon jig to a dado blade maily because I don't have to make repetetive passes over the cutter. I think the results are much more consistant with the jig. The jig really shines when it comes to angled tenons. Far easier to do with a jig than a dado blade.

   With all that said, I rarely use either method. I have a home built slot mortiser and that beats the other methods hands down. I can cut all the joinery for a small table in 10-15 minutes including setup. Hard to beat that.

   Tom

   Douglasville, GA

3. 
   BG | Dec 22, 2003 04:31pm | #3

   charlie,

   I've often asked the same question...and usually the dado wins.  However, my last door project I used the tennon jig.  It was real nice and easy to take a shaving off the tenon when necessary...just added a sheet or two of paper to the face of the tennon jig....flip the stock and repeat. 
1. 
   15Broad | Dec 22, 2003 04:40pm | #4

     Unless I'm confused, which is very possible, isn't there a kickback or keeping fingers well clear of the blade issue involved?  With the workpiece firmly clamped in a jig I think you stay safer, but then, I'm new here.

1. 
   Elcoholic | Dec 22, 2003 08:20pm | #5

   Without getting into the "How strong is strong enough?"  The tenoning jig will leave smoother tenon faces which will give a better glue bond.  Either the dado or single blade with tenoning jig methods are suseptible to fitting problems due to minute variations in stock thickness.  I've experienced this even with shop planed stock.  The most consistent method I've found is two-blade tenoning with a tenoning jig.  On the other hand for stock to long to stand on end I use the TS for the shoulder cut and a router to remove the waste.  If I had a RAS I'd use a dado ala Norm.John O'Connell - JKO Handcrafted Woodworking

   Life is tough.  It's tougher if you're stupid - John Wayne

4. 
   notDusty | Dec 22, 2003 08:42pm | #6

        CharlieD ,

                I have a dedicated saw setup for the dado's various uses. When tenonning parts for doors ,I set up one TS to cut the slot  and the other for the dadoed tenons, it is fast safe and accurate. Most people use a tenonning jig because, they have one. I cut a little extra frame stock , so if needed a quick cut on the chop saw or RAS can make a replacement part if needed .This system works for me , you may have better luck another way.            good luck                dusty