Can this produce smooth clean chip-free cuts in plywood &amp; other sheetgoods, &amp; can it be used with a straight edge to keep the cut perfectly straight?
380717
I found that this unt failed to provide a straight cut with a straight edge guide. The unit has the power I required and speed control that I was looking for but lack the ability to make straight cuts.
1400875
Yes it could be. Using an electric knife or a band-saw works best for smooth edges.
1274330
I used a Fein MM to cut out a 3/4" plywood floor I replaced. Cut was quite fine and smooth. I didn't use a straight edge, but I did have to cut along the long side of a bathtub. Using the bathtub itself as a guide was easy so I think any straight edge would be similarly easy.
861304
I have not had any chipout when cutting either hardwoods or plywood. If this is a concern for furniture building I would probably use a backing board so your good piece is not the last thing the set touches just to be extra safe.
18821
Sir! I used this little machine in solid pine and 1/4" plywood where the cut quality did not matter. Seems to be cutting ok., but you might need to change the blade to get better cut, such as more tooth on the blade.
934869
Hi Johnathan,I think the best way to do what you want to do is to use a flush cutting bit adjusted to be about the thickness of a sheet of paper away from the plywood for the final pass. Adding a larger base made from masonite or plexiglass could help prevent "dig in" of the bit as you approach the edge. After the last pass with the router, carefully sand the edging flush with the plywood.
18816
I expect it depends on the material being cut. The plywood and thin material I have used, it splinters. It cuts a straight line but does not cut as I expected it to do as the ad depicted.
1377258
NO. Even with a straight edge it would be difficult. It is best for rough cutout work.
861297
Does very well with hardwood -- almost no chipout. Plywood is a little more difficult, so I sometimes score the wood with the blade set very low before cutting the full depth.
1543232
Yes, I have trimmed the plastic without the contents falling apart. However I don't think it is a good Idea because over time the corners might begin to come apart. If you have a paper trimmer you can measure the length of the amount of plastic that you want to keep, that will allow you to make straight clean cuts. This way you prevent the corners from coming apart. I hope that makes sense.
1472951
I've only used it on foam-core board but it does slice cleanly through all the layers and slice into the mat board I use to prevent the wood support from being marred. It is easy to use with a straight rail that is anchored somehow. The foam-core I use for model building. I would expect you to go through blades fairly fast but that happens any time you want super-crisp cuts with thin blades.
1884143
not really, no. you drag the blade through the grooves... works best on a straight-edge.
258111
I haven't done it personally, but it's definitely a great machine and should have no problem with the right blade. Cuts through thick, hard wood with no problem - probably more taxing than thin metal done slowly?
18817
The rotation speed is fairly low and you will need to experiment with various blades. The standard blade does chip the edge. There is a finer circular blade but I have not used it yet. The cuts I make have not needed a perfectly chip-frre cut, and I just round the edge with sand paper. I have used it against a straight edge. You have to watch it through, because it will wonder away from the ruler it you do not put the appropriate pressure. Positioning the edge (I use a long level) requires some inventiveness.
858415
No... It is a mighty fine trim saw or plywood cutter, in addition to light tile and masonary work, but, can't be used for flush cutting. That type of cut is best handled by a dedicated saw or one of the "sonic" type saws. I use a Rockwell Sonicrafter for that type of cut (toe-kick for floor easement).
905191
As with any saw it is dependent on the blade used. Cutting the right side is always a plus. Running a straight edge will allow straight cuts.
332522
Pierce, yes it can, with some care! Makita makes a small plastic insert (comes with the tool) that clips in around the blade within the foot plate. This largely eliminates chipping. I also made a four-foot guide out of angle aluminum (created a channel for both sides of the tool) that enabled me to make reasonably accurate cuts across a sheet of plywood. Am very happy with my Makita!