Features to Look For in a Chain Mortiser

Whether you’re just beginning to learn the art of using a chain mortiser, or are looking to upgrade, there are several key features to consider when shopping for a new tool. A rotatable head is often a good option if you plan to mortise harder materials, and a long handle will allow you to use the tool more comfortably.

Makita 7104L

A chain mortiser can provide professional results for the home woodworker or small timber framing company looking to save a few bucks. It has all the high tech features you’d expect in a top of the line tool. This model can make a mortise up to 5-1/8″ wide and 12-1/8″ deep. The power to do it is provided by a 10.5 amp motor. Unlike most other power tools on the market, this unit has an easy to read wattmeter for quick monitoring of the machine’s performance.

Among the myriad of chain saws on the market, the Makita Chain Mortiser is an ideal choice. For starters, it has an integrated carrying handle that makes it easy to carry. As a result, the operator can get more work done in less time.

Jet

The Makita 7104L is a great little chain mortiser. It boasts a 10.5 Amp motor and can handle big time log wood. It also has a plethora of other cool features that make it worthy of consideration. Among the more interesting features include a multipurpose chuck that holds bits up to 3/8″ in diameter.

There are two primary types of chain mortisers. They can be either horizontal or vertical. Most horizontal models have more moving parts and are generally more expensive than their cynical cousins. Vertical units are more or less the same, save for the fact that they are easier to transport and maintain.

Although the Makita 7104L is not cheap, its value proposition is worth the investment. For starters, it’s a great tool for do-it-yourself home builders. This particular model is built to last with a rust resistant finish. It also has an integral carrying handle that makes it easy to transport and schlep.

RIKON professional 34-260 benchtop X-Y mortiser

When looking for a benchtop X-Y mortiser, you have to consider a number of things. These include the motor power, the size of the chuck, and the safety features. But, it’s also important to know whether a particular mortiser has an in-line depth stop, which is a feature that helps prevent racking the bit to the base.

Benchtop X-Y mortising machines are ideal for precision cutting of mortises in wood. They come with sliding X-Y axis tables and dovetail column ways, providing excellent accuracy and reliability.

The X-Y table can be moved back and forth by the front controls, which also move side-to-side. This is useful for moving work pieces and for changing angles. Another option is the rotator table, which glides in both the X and Y axes.

Rotatable mortising head suits best for hard-to-mortise materials

One of the many baubles gracing my workshop is the aforementioned mortising machine. Using one of these tools to my discerning liking, the dust to dust ratio is in the low single digits and a newbie amongst the flock will nudge the ol’ boy to the good round. A little research and a few bourbons will go a long way in a short time. Having a name owed to your mate may make the difference between a night of ohhs and ahs a matter of a matter of seconds. The sexiest beast in the ring is a sexy lady with the man of the hour in tow.

Longer handle mortisers provide more leverage

Whether you are an experienced woodworker or just beginning to learn how to mortise, a chain mortiser is one of the most effective tools for cutting rectangular or square holes. They are small and portable and are a great option for timber framing. Compared to other options, they provide more leverage.

Chain mortisers are a great tool for cutting a variety of different types of wood, including large and dense timber. In fact, they are similar to tiny chain saws. Their chains are available in a variety of widths. A wider chain will cut a larger slot, while a thinner chain will be less effective in cutting smaller slots.

Some chain mortisers also come with a plunge capacity. This allows you to create deeper and narrower mortises. To determine how deep the hole you are creating should be, you can use a depth gauge. Also, you can set the depth stop to the desired depth, and the mortiser will lock into the position until you’re ready to complete the job.