cbsjoez1935

Well I finally got around to building my version of the RWS table, using their table top. I had not received my stimulus check, as yet, so baltic birch or cabinet grade stuff was out and I had to build it with what scraps I had. I used 1/2" ply and instead of 1 X 2 supports, I used left over deck ballistae (2 X 2) I struggled through the dados, for the bit holder tray, stupidly going the wrong way on my other makeshift table (3/8" ply on workmate) climbing instead of cutting in the bit direction and wondering why the piece kept trying to move away from the fence. I did not build the base cabinet, as yet, but secured the frame to a 3/8" ply sheet, screwed a 2 X 4 onto the ply and used that to support the whole thing on my B & D Workmate. That may seem strange, but after lowering the Workmate's feet to their bottom position, the height works for me. With my wonderful behemoth ready, I decided to make the RWS miter gauge with some poly cutting board. I framed the slot out with sticks, using my 1" brass guide as a measure and cut 5/8" holes to remove excess waste. With a 1/2" shear angle flush trim bit mounted, I produced enough poly confetti for a New Year's Party. It stuck to everything. Who cares? I was going to have my miter gauge. Boy, was I wrong. First off, do not use double sided tape to hold the sticks on poly. They did not hold up under the pressure and my slot got wavy and ultimately useless. Next time I will pre-cut the end slot holes with a 1" Forstner bit, cut the excess out, as before. Using the 1/2" bit, line up the first cut with my fence, reverse the poly and cut the second pass after adjusting the fence. Maybe this time it will work, but hey the fun is in trying. Sorry for the long post, but I hope it gave some information.

Joe Z.

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JoeZ If you never made a mistake, you never tried anything