How To Use A Router Table As A Jointer
Unplug the router table.
How to use a router table as a jointer. By using a router table fence thats equipped with an offset fence youll be able to dial in the thickness of cut by adjusting the position of your infeed fence in relation to the outfeed side. A standard router table can accomplish a variety of tasks including trimming. The set-up is fairly simple and straightforward.
If your fence is 20 long then I would recommend jointing stock up to 36 or 13 longer than your fence. If you have a table youre covered. As with most router table operations there is no need to align the miter track with the fence since it is not used in the jointing operation - the fence guides the stock.
How to use a router table as a jointer - Festool CMS Router Table. The main drawback is the time it takes to get the fence set up with the correct offset. Take note of the spacing between the edge of the bit and the outer edge of the bushing.
Once I trim the edge I cut a straight edge on the other side using the table saw and then glue up the two pieces. For more information on the best router for your table read our reviews. You can use an inverted table-mounted router to straighten narrow edges.
The important thing is to make sure that the in-feed and the out-feed side of the fence are parallel and that the out-feedside of the fence is lined up with top dead center of the cut radius of the bit. Rockler offers a set of Router Table Jointing Shims that make setting up to use your router as a joiner quick and painless. Cleaning up an edge forming a rounded top or cutting any curved part will be a breeze.
Using a router table as a jointer is a good option if youre working in tight quarters or on a tight tool budget. Your best bet to get a truly straight edge would be to use your router table. In this short video furniture maker and Fine Woodworking contributing author Gregory Paolini demonstrates his technique for jointing wood on the router table.