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looking for a mortiser

2K views 9 replies 9 participants last post by  Richforever 
#1 · (Edited by Moderator)
I am looking to add a bench top mortiser to my shop. Quality and Price are both a big concern. I don,t want to sacrifice quality just to save a few dollars but I can't afford to through money away on a name. Shop Fox seems to have a good machine with a lot of features. I need some advice. I just don't know which one to buy.
 
#4 · (Edited by Moderator)
I use a benchtop hollow chisel mortiser for most work. I have the Delta 14-651 which performs well for me. I had a few parts break, but replacements were available. The biggest limitation is you can only fit a 4-1/2" wide board under the hold-down. It does come with a riser block to allow a 6" board under the chisel, but it is a pain to install. If you are mostly working on parts 4-1/2" wide or less, then most benchtop mortisers will work.

General International makes one with a 9" capacity under the chisel, but it comes at a cost.
 
#6 · (Edited by Moderator)
Unless you have a particular need for square through mortises
or deeper mortises than 2" in the style of work you want to,
I recommend going with a slot mortiser. New ones aren't
cheap but you can make one yourself using a 1/2" router
motor, even an old one off ebay. Some designs like
the "pantorouter" (woodgears.ca) can be used to make
tenons as well and that's a considerable asset.
 
#7 ·
Thanks for all the great input everyone. you have given me a lot to think about. Money is always a concern, as is the quality of the finished product. I have 2 grand daughters that will be the recipients of most of my future furniture projects. So, the quality must be my best work ever. LOL, No pressure on grandpa.
 
#9 ·
In comparing, check the RPM. It's my view that 1750 is kinder to your chisels than 3450. There will always be some heat-producing friction between the bit and the chisel and any way I can minimize that is important to me.

Kindly,

Lee
 
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