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Templates Page 2
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The new MR3 mortise rail was interesting in more ways than one as you will see shortly. In the main this appears to be a standard set up but with a full length U- shaped alloy mount fixed to the channel which is of an updated design. The work is dropped into the holder and trapped by some scrap wood held by front screws. Notice the T-slot in the top front edge of the extrusion. |
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The new channel has slots both under and in front of the base now. Ideal for all the jig and stop makers. Martin has a pin system mounted onto a L shaped bracket. This pin can engage in a pre-cut wooden template fixed to the lower T slot. This template can be slid and fixed in any position so that cutting repeatable and accurate mortises of any length is really simple. |
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This end view clearly shows the new channel section which will make "add-ons" simpler to mount. This one was not anodised but production models will be I understand. Note a little modification to the white plastic runners. They have wooden fillers to stiffen them. I might try that. |
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| I am sorry this shot is out of focus but it shows the mortise pin and bracket. |
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| This is a novel locking arrangement on the dovetail template mount. |  |
Well here we have a number of very ingenious designs by Martin that are clearly well ahead in their development. I do realise that he is placed in a situation here as the original concept and indeed the beauty of the WoodRat is in its simplicity and flexibility.
However, he has responded to demands for templates for those that require production repeatability and for extra gadgets for the demanding customer. I do have some reservations as template dovetail and mortise jigs are readily available in the open market. Success depends on final costs of course but these developments have proven a principle so could lead to all manner of other templates such as lettering and logos etc.
I am really impressed by the new channel design and am very positive that it will be very well received indeed. The drawer side dovetail template would be of particular interest to me.
Rounded tenons to fit directly into the mortises without any modifications would be a great time saver.
Following the template guides around the curves requires a smooth running system and some dexterity but does produce neat joints. I very much look forward to trying out the finished products and wish Martin all the success that he deserves for these very clever inventions.
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