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I do beleive that through dovetails on a tradition machine my be a little easier (you don't have to cute off any rounded areas, etc). The learning curve is relative steep, I believe. I've finally started using this system after determining whether I wanted to buy a longer router table, or just modify my current one (the latter won out). However, you can't do many of the things possible with this system either. But once you've got a handle on it, there is nothing like it. Incra was produce a well built and accurate system. Repeatability is where this system really shines.
Ive had this Incra system for a couple years now. Not overly difficult, just have to pay attention. Cutting box joints for small boxes has always been a little hazardous on the table saw, but this jig makes it safe and extremely accurate. There is a bit of a learning curve, the video really helps (wish mine was dvd), and the book is pretty good.
This unit is very well designed and constucted of top notch materials. I had to build mine on a piece of mdf that I can remove from the workbench, as it is also my table saw outfeed table. Little cumbersome, but works well and saves time by not having to tear down the incra each time. I am very pleased with this Incra jig and will continue to explore its many uses. Just unbolt the board and pick the whole thing up and stash it in the back room. I am still discovering new ways to use it.
The router cut out overhangs the bench. Highly recommend. Small, accurate dovetail joints are easily accomplished and repeatable if you keep a good log of settings. You want to really pay attention to the instructions when constructing your "table" as some of the measurments are pretty critical.
Need to get between 1/32, no problem, it has a vernier dial that basically moves the fence in 1/1000 increments. It's genius how it works. All that is needed is a router lift to get that Z axis, which I don't have, and it hasn't slowed me down too much.Incra has done an excellent job of every aspect of the LS Super System. Mine is 48x38'This unit comes with a second fence that attaches to the main one to allow clearence of larger bits (a must have), in addition, you can offset this second fence and with the use of a strait cutter bit you now have a jointer. It's all based on a lead screw with a pitch of 1/32". This is the most thought out and best designed tool I have ever used. With the exception of making curves and following router templates, this tool will let your router do just about any cut you can think of in an X Y plain. This is a great feature for those of us that work in the car garage.
I even measured the repeatbility to 1/2000 of an inch. What to say. It has a stop block which is genius. Lets you place the stop anywhere along either fence and it too will snap 1/32" increments, plus you can still get between the stops with a vernier screw.This kit comes with a sliding fence most useful for dovetails or edge cuts. You will need a larger router table for this to work.
I can set mine up in about 20 minutes. The kit includes template ruler guides and a very simple to follow guide for making interlocking joints like box and dovetails. It even looks cool. I also like the vacuum attachment for dust collection. This allows very exact placement of the cutter tool relative to the work piece. In addition it has a hi-rise fence for running boards on edge. American tool design and manufacturing at it's finest.
Also, useful to just knock a fraction of an inch from the edge of a workpiece (like mitres). The fence once installed is rock solid, and can quickly be removed from the router table, broken down and put away. This enables the fence snap at any 1/32 increment along the 17 inch reach, and it is always repeatable. It makes woodworking like machining with an upside down mill.
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