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From the Publisher
Paul Fulcher
It's hard to imagine a power tool that is as versatile as a
router. If you have been using one for any length of time you know what I mean.
However, if you're new to woodworking and haven't yet purchased a router, you're
in for a pleasant experience. Routing will bring a whole new direction to your
woodworking.
In the latest issue of Canadian Woodworking Magazine (June/July
2006, Issue 42) Hendrik Varju discusses everything that you need to know about
mid-sized routers before you make your purchase decision. And in this issue of
the newsletter we shop test the new Triton 2 1/4 hp plunge router. Read on to
find out why we think the Triton is such a great shop router.
On another note, we had a computer glitch, and some of the photos that were sent
in by our readers have disappeared into cyberspace. If you have sent us a photo
of your work, and have not seen it featured in this newsletter, please take a
moment and re-send it to us. Much appreciated.
Thanks and enjoy.
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Edifice Old Home Magazine's Upcoming Workshops
Edifice Old Home Magazine is Canada's only magazine dedicated to owners of old
homes (or those of us who like older homes). They offer a wide range of courses
including Timber Framing, Wood Window Restoration, Re-pointing Historic Masonry,
Building Historic Cabinetry, and Log Construction. For a full list
click here. If you live
in Southern Ontario you can take advantage of their
"Restoration Road
Trip" and obtain an inspection of areas critical for maintenance of your
home by Edifice's historic building experts.
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Bosch Grand Slam
 Bosch
has come out with a number of new power tools, including an 18-volt 10-inch compound miter saw, 18-volt impact fastener, and 10.8-volt
ultra compact drill driver.
The 3918 miter saw uses ni-cad batteries to give up to 100 cuts
in a 1 x 6 pine board on a single charge. A sturdy 21" wide aluminum base
acts as the saw’s backbone. Convenient sliding extensions expand the base to
24" to provide extra support for longer material. A 3-1/2" fence
smoothly slides to the left for easy bevel setups and increased crown molding
cutting capacity, while a quick release lever makes the adjustment a snap.
Quick and accurate crown molding cuts are possible with special
miter and bevel detents at 31.6º and 33.9º, respectively.
A spindle lock
makes blade changes quick and easy. The unit comes with a single long-lasting 2.4 AMP Bluecore™
battery (guaranteed for two years), one-hour Bosch charger, 24 tooth blade,
material clamp and dust bag. For those adding to their 18-volt system, the saw
is also available in a tool-only execution (3918B). Optional accessories include
a tote bag that can fit the complete saw for easy transport, 12-inch extension
kit and the Bosch Digitial Miterfinder™.
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The model 23618 18-volt
cordless IMPACTOR™ fastening driver claims the highest torque in its class.
It delivers 1,350 in/lbs of torque and 2,800 RPM. Additional tool features
include a soft grip, optimal balance and ergonomic design, and a sensitive
variable-speed trigger. Bit changes are practically effortless with the tool’s 1/4-inch
quick-change hex chuck. A reversible belt hook offers a convenient way to carry
or store the tool; while a multi-position trigger-activated LED work light
offers illumination in dim work environments.
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The PS10 I Driver is a professional
cordless ultra-compact drill/driver with a five-position 90-degree articulating
head to access the tightest work spaces and accomplish the majority of everyday
drill/driving tasks. It features a full 90-degree articulating head, 5 detent settings and a total head length of only 3.5-inches.
It can drive 100
3-inch screws per charge and is capable of drilling 1/2-inch diameter holes.
You adjust the head with the click of
a button to the most comfortable and efficient position. A Clic-change™ bit
holder also makes 1/4-inch hex shank bits quick and easy to switch out. The
tool’s two-finger variable speed trigger offers maximum control over 600 RPM and
over 80-inch/lbs. of torque. A 7+1 electronic clutch system enhances precision
with seven drive and one drill setting. |
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Preferred Edge Has New Web Site
Mike Komick has been making a line of top quality Native style carving knives for
quite some time now. Check out his new
web site that does a fine job of showcasing his full range of knives and
blades. Mike will also custom make knives to your specifications.
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WoodHaven Shelf Pin and Oval Jigs
 Woodhaven’s Shelf Pin Jigs allow you to
perform repetitive drilling operations quickly and easily. There are two new
longer models available: the #783 is an inch model with 31 holes on 1” centers,
while the #784 is a metric model with 25 holes on 32mm centers.
The jigs can be used with any drill equipped with a self-centering bit, or a
router with a guide bushing and the appropriate bit. The jig indexes over a
corner of your work piece, or along the edge of a long part with the included
indexing pin. Clamp it down and you’re ready to go.
 Also available are Woodhaven’s Oval Jigs, which allow you to
cut or draw perfect ovals. There are four models to choose from, from 24" to 72".
The smallest version, the model 3220 includes a 9-1/4" T-Slot plate and a 24"
bar. With it the smallest oval you can cut an oval up to 41-49" x 53". Longer
bars are available. |
Drill Doctor Re-Design
 The
folks at Drill
Doctor have re-designed their line of well known, and highly regarded drill bit sharpeners. All units sharpen
high speed steel, black oxide, carbide, Tin-coated, cobalt and masonry bits and
are available with an optional, user-replaceable diamond sharpening wheel.
New models include the DD500X, which sharpens the largest range and
most popular drill bits including split points and masonry bits. It will split
points creating a self-centering bit for less drill bit wandering and will
sharpen both 118° and 135° point angles. It sharpens most popular drill bit
types and sizes 3/32" to 1/2"(2.5 to 13mm) and in less than 60 seconds. A
variable alignment feature adjusts chisel and relief angles. The DD500X features
durable, metal sharpening and split-point ports. It provides precision
capability with easily replaceable diamond sharpening wheel for hundreds of
uses. Its compact design is durable and built tough to last. It stores in a
sturdy plastic carrying case. An optional large bit chuck sharpens bits up to ¾
inch (19mm).
The DD350X is the ideal drill bit sharpener for the home workshop. It sharpens
most popular drill bit types and sizes from 3/32" to 1/2" (2.5 to 13mm).
The DD750X is the top of the line pro model, created for the
serious drill bit user, hobbyist and professional. It allows the user to create
a custom variable point angle between 115 and 140 degrees. It features an all
metal core construction to increase precision sharpening and precision splitting
of bits, and handles bits from 3/32" to 3/4" (2.5 to 19 mm).
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| Triton 2 1/4 HP Plunge Router |
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| Item: |
MOF100KC |
Price: |
$299.95 |
Rating: |
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| Source: |
Triton Woodworking, 613-936-2955 |
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I've noted that in most shops that I visit there will be one
drill/driver, one jig saw, one plate joiner - just about one of every power tool. But, there
will be two, three or more
routers. Part of the reason is that the router is one of the most versatile and
'creative' power tools. Coupled with a shop made router table, it provides the
flexibility of a conventional shaper at a fraction of the cost. It's no wonder
there are so many models, in so many different sizes and configurations.
If you do a lot of routing with very large size bits, then a 3+
hp router and a router table is the way to go. However, for the bulk of freehand
and plunge routing a mid-sized router in the 2 hp range is an ideal choice (see
Hendrik Varju's article on mid-sized routers in Issue #42 - June/July 2006- of
Canadian Woodworking). Coupled with a top of the line palm router (see our
review of the
Bosch Colt
in the April newsletter),
you'll be ready for any routing challenge in your shop.
If you are looking to purchase a new mid-sized router, then you'll want to
do yourself a favour and check out the new Triton MOF100KC 2 1/4 hp
plunge router. It's an exceptional tool with the best set of features found on
any mid-sized router available today.
There are four features, in particular, that move this router to
the top of the class:
- An intuitive, very easy to use plunge system that enables
you to switch effortlessly between free plunge and geared plunge;
- An exceptionally precise micro-depth adjuster;
- Above the base bit changes plus a no hassle automatic
collet lock;
- And for those times when you want to use the router in a
router table set up, a built in router bit lift, which enables you to change
bit height from above the table.
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Key Facts:
13 amps
8,000 – 20,000 rpm
2 5/16" depth adjustment range
6 1/2" base
3 5/32" bit opening
1/4" and 1/2" collets
Micro adjust to 1/128"
10.4 lbs (4.7 kg)
2 yr warranty
Soft start
Continuous speed control under load
Switch lock-out
Integrated dust port
7 piece template kit
Fence and circle cutter
Winder handle
High impact molded box |
The Triton arrives in a sturdy box that holds everything together, so
nothing to misplace. (Fence taken out of the box for clarity) |
It's great not to have to buy additional accessories. With the Triton you
get it all - fence and extended baseplate, chip collector, winder handle, 7 piece template kit,
wrench, and even a high quality 1/2" straight bit! |
The on/off switch incorporates two safety features - a
retracting shutter that you push aside with your thumb before depressing the
power button, and an illuminated power switch. The shutter remains open
until you switch the power off. |
The variable speed selector is conveniently located on
the top the motor housing. There are 5 speed settings. I use the speed
selector often, and thankfully they've put black numbers on the orange dial
making it easier to read.
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To free plunge you depress the free plunge button on the right handle. This is a fool proof method that's quick and easy to
use. |
In free plunge mode you want to re-lock the plunge lock
lever after you plunge the router to the desired depth. Unless you have
very small hands you can easily use your thumb to manipulate the lever
without releasing your hand from the right handle. |
A second method for setting depth is to use the handle
winder. You simply depress the yellow clutch ring on the right handle
and simultaneously turn the handle to the desired depth. Then release the
clutch ring and lock the position with the plunge lock lever. I found this
the best method for making quick depth settings. |
For precise depth adjustments use the micro adjuster.
Make sure that the free plunge button is not depressed. Use the handle
winder method to bring the bit close to your desired setting, then turn the
micro adjuster to achieve the final depth setting. |
There are a series of 10 marks on the micro adjuster. Each
mark indicates a movement of 1/128". There is no slop when turning the
adjuster, and the motor housing moves smoothly. I would have liked colored
lines - I find the black lines a bit difficult to see when the lighting is
less then perfect. |
The depth stop rod and two post turret are conventional in
design - one that works well and is easy to use. On the Triton the
thumbwheels rotate easily but without any unnecessary play. The scale on the
post has raised white lettering. |
This is my favourite feature on the Triton. The top of the
motor housing is flat, so you can easily balance the Triton upside down.
Plunge the router until the collet protrudes out of the base. The collect
lock will automatically engage. Now its a breeze to change bits. Love it! |
To use the guide bushes you first need to remove the baseplate, and then
install the guide plate (you simply insert it under the baseplate,
and then re-attach the baseplate). |
The guide bushes are held snugly on the guide plate by a couple of
screws. I really like this method - it makes for quick changes and you
don't have to remove (and loose!) the screws. |
With the guide plate installed, the bit opening is reduced to 2" from
3 5/32". This still accommodates most of the bits I use on a day to day
basis. Fortunately, removing the guide plate only takes a few minutes.
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There is a 1 1/2" OD dust extraction port on the base
of the router to which I was able to hand thread my Festool hose. You may
have to purchase an adapter if your hose is of the more conventional 2 1/2"
diameter. I found that the extractor picked up most of the chips generated. |
Alternately you can attach the supplied chip collector
to the base plate. It's quick to attach and remove, and does an excellent
job. You can also mount it on the fence (in fact, it works so well that I
recommend you buy a second chip collector and leave it permanently attached
to the fence). The collector takes a 1 1/2" OD hose. |
The fence attaches quickly to the base of extended
baseplate, which mounts to the router via the spring loaded mounting
screws. You can mount it on the right or left side. You can also use the
pivot mount that holds the fence to the extended baseplate to turn the
baseplate into a circle cutting jig. Very clever. |
In a busy shop you really need a router permanently mounted
in a router table. The Triton is a good choice for this, as you don't have
to purchase a separate router lift. You simply attach the supplied
winder handle to the router. You may have to purchase a base mounting
plate depending on how you plan to mount the router in your table. |
In SummaryWhile the Triton MOF100KC
is a tall router (11 1/4"), the placement of the handles makes this a very
well balanced tool. It certainly feels like it weighs less than 10 pounds.
All the features on this router worked well, and under load it delivered
constant speed and torque. It doesn't bog down when I use large bits in hard
wood, nor does it feel unwieldy when freehand routing with small bits. Apart
from a short power cord (this one is 6 1/2', I would have liked a 12' cord),
and the hard to read marks on the micro adjuster, this is a great shop
router. |
| Ridgid Portable Circular Saw |
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| Item: |
4 Piece Kit - R921 |
Price: |
$499 |
Rating: |
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| Source: |
Home Depot |
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We've been enamored with Ridgid tools for several years now.
In general, we've found that they are well designed, well made, and well priced.
We recently had an opportunity to try out the 18-volt circular saw, that comes
as part of a 4 piece kit (R921), which also includes an 18-volt hammer drill,
work light, charger and carry case.
This is a nicely designed saw that offers a set of good basic
features. It has good balance is easy to control, and its battery juices up in 30
minutes.
The saw is quite light for its size. Its 6 1/2" blade spins at a
top speed of 2500 RPM, and cuts through stock up to 2 1/8" thick at 90° (and 1
5/8" at 45°). Changing depth of cut is fast (and, joy of joys, tool-less), as is
setting the bevel angle. It has a lock-off button that you have to depress while
pressing the trigger to start the saw – a great safety feature, making it very
difficult for children to accidentally turn the saw on. A spindle lock button
makes changing the blade a breeze, and to set the bevel all you need to do is
loosen an adjustment knob.
While the circular saw doesn't have any 'oh that’s neat'
features, it did a bang up job cutting MDF, plywood (particularly thinner ply)
and 2 x 4 spruce. I did find it underpowered for cutting thick, solid stock
(over 1") and 3/4" ply. Still, a good choice for a DIYer or as a dedicated
plywood cutting saw in a small shop. |
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Custom Wooden Music Boxes: Scrollsaw Pattern Book
Designed by Rick & Karen Longabaugh
2006, 196 pp, softcover |
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| Item: |
ISBN: 1565233018 |
Price: |
$26.95 |
Rating: |
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| Source: |
Your local bookseller |
When I received this book to review, my first impression was WOW.
This is a very impressive pattern book. I own about 35 pattern books and this
one is among the best.
The first 8 pages of the book deal with cutting, finishing, safety and other
tips. The last 15 pages of the book contain separate patterns for the projects
discussed in the book. The bulk of the book is dedicated to 45 beautiful music
box patterns. Patterns include Angels, Children, Holiday, Romance & Victorian.
The pages of this book are of heavy paper, and the binding is glued and stitched
so that the book can be easily laid out flat to copy the patterns on a photo
copier or scanner.
Another nice feature, the pages are a medium beige color, while the fill color
inside the pattern is several shades of lighter beige, with sharp black lines
for the detail in the pattern. |
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This makes it much nicer to see the pattern detail, more so then
if it was just black lines on white paper. There are small black and white
assembly photos for each project, and written instructions on most of the
projects where it is required, as well as several small full color photos of
some of the finished projects. The patterns in this book are super clear and
well designed. Several patterns require you to cut slots to fit pieces together,
so make sure you read the instructions on these patterns. You need to check the
thickness of your project wood before cutting these slots.
If I had to rate this book on a scale from 1 to 10 I would have to give it a
full 10. This is the nicest pattern book I have and at a price of $27 is a very
good deal - you will get the cost of the book back with the sale of just one
project.
Some of the patterns may seem very hard for the beginner, but if you take your
time and think twice before cutting, even a novice should be able to cut these
out. Keep an eye out for the December issue of Canadian Woodworking Magazine, as
I will be doing one of the Christmas Music Boxes for that issue. Ted Duquette
Ted Duquette is an accomplished scroll sawer, and has
designed numerous patterns.
Ted is also a contributor to Canadian Woodworking Magazine. |
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John Glendinning
Furniture Maker
I get a sense of tranquility looking at John Glendinning's work. The gentle
curves, the flowing shadow lines, the interplay between contrasting colours,
contribute to an almost ethereal quality to the work. As a consumer I can admire
the form and grace of his work; as a craftsman I can appreciate the high level
of skill, patience and perseverance required to execute each of these pieces.
It's the kind of furniture that James Krenov calls 'honest furniture', calling
out not only to be admired, but touched and enjoyed.
For more about John and his work, visit his
web site.
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Whiskey 1
Mahogany, limestone |
Shift Bowl
Elm, paint |
Cornice Table
Cherry, bronze. paint |
Whiskey 2
Cherry, wenge, limestone |
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Pot Pourri Dish
Denis Johnson, Saskatoon
"I recently took a one day woodturning
course - and in the process created my first ever woodturning (unless you count
the six straight dowels I made 55 years ago in grade 11). This dish is made of
apple wood finished with mineral oil and beeswax.
As much as the dish itself, I am rather pleased with the photo. I laid a mirror
(borrowed from a bedroom wall) on the back deck so that the clear Saskatchewan
sky reflected in the mirror. Then I set the bowl on the mirror and snapped the
photo. In addition to providing a pleasant background, the mirror shows off the
underside wood grain and provides good lighting without shadows."
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De Havilland Beaver
David Paetsch This model
of a De Havilland Beaver is made of pine and painted with enamel. It has a wing
span of 40" and is 27 1/2" long from propeller to rudder. The floats are 22" in
length.
David's model features working lights, and the propeller is run by a motor, all
are controlled by their own toggle switches. Check out his work at
Woodendetails.
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Hybrid Kayak
Carey Healey, Coquitlam, BC
Carey built this lovely wooden kayak last
year. It's actually a hybrid with the hull made from plywood panels and a custom
made cedar strip deck. Part of the construction work was done in a commercial
shop, while the majority of the work was completed in his basement. Well, I
guess we know where you'll be spending most of your time this summer Carey!
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If you would like to see your work in
this newsletter, send us an image along with information about your
project. Images look best with an uncluttered background. Use the highest
setting on your digital camera - we will reduce the image to fit in the
newsletter.
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Issue #23
May 2006
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