Popular Woodworking 2002-04 № 127, страница 18
HTC Improves the Venerable Biesemeyer W x\ ■A re're not saying you should replace your Biesemeyer rip fence with HTC's new fence; but you could, and it would be an improvement. The HTC Multi-Fence System has everything you expect from a quality T-square style fence: repeatable accuracy, stability and ease of use and adjustment. In addition, this fence offers features not found on the Biesemeyer: micro-adjustability, easily removed/replaced fence faces and a simple way to square the fence to the saw's table. The fence micro-adjusts by first engaging a quick-lock lever, which clamps the fence's support bar against the rail. Then you turn the micro-adjust knob to fine-tune the fence setting left or right. One revolution of the micro-adjust knob moves the fence 1/16", but the adjustment knob is sensitive enough that one-eighth of a rotation of that knob yields a Vi28" adjustment. The fence faces are solid UHMW (ultra high molecular weight) material, commonly called "slick stuff," which provides a stable and smooth surface. Biesemeyer owners who have ever replaced their fence faces will appreciate how easy this is to do on the HTC. Rap the far end of the face and it pops off the studs attached to the fence beam. Not only does this make removing or replacing the faces a snap, it allows you to easily attach special jigs to your fence beam by adding the separately available clips to your shop jigs. A third improvement is the addition of easily accessible screws that allow you to set the fence face at 90° to your saw's table. On the Biesemeyer, this operation is performed by shimming with masking tape. The HTC fences fit most contractor and cabinet saws. If you already have a T-square style fence, such a Biesemeyer, you can purchase the fence alone and use the existing front rail on your saw. The fence also is available with the rails for a bit more. Prices range from $239.95 for the HTC-800 contractor style fence ($349.95 with 30" rails included) to $269.95 for the HTC-900 commercial fence ($379.95 with 30" rails). Without a doubt, the HTC fence improves on Biesemeyer's highly successful design. While the upgrades are great, we don't recommend that you trash an existing T-style system to get them. But if you're shopping for a new fence system, this is a great option. The model we tested included a magnifying lens indicator that we had problems reading. HTC officials say the product in stores would not include the magnifying lens shown in the photo above. Check before you buy; it's quite difficult to read. The extra precision and versatility of this fence system does cost a little more. About HTC 800 & 900 Multi-Fence Systems Street price: $240 and $270 Faces: 800: V x 17/b" x 371/4" 900:3/4" x 23/8" x 411/4" Fence tube: 800:1V2" x 3" x 36" 900:2" x 3" x 39V4" T-Clamp bar: 800:14" 900:16" Performance: ••••• Value: ••••◦ HTC Products: 800-624-2027 or $50 more than a Biesemeyer, and $150 more than the Shop Fox Classic fence. You also will have an opportunity to buy this fence system included on a new saw. HTC has contracted with JET Equipment to provide the upgraded fences on their saws. For more information, circle #141 on Reader Service Card. HOW WE RATE TOOLS At Popular Woodworking we test new tools and products with an honest, real-world workout. We check for ease of assembly and determine how clear and complete the manuals are. Then we use the tool in our shop to build projects that appear in the magazine. Each issue, our editorial staff shares its results and experiences with the tools. We use a one-to-five scale, with "five" in performance indicating that we consider it to be the leader in its category. For value, "five" means the tool is a great deal for the money, while "one" means we consider it pricey. Though, a unique low-value tool may be worth the price. If our tool reviews don't answer all your questions, e-mail me at david.thiel@fwpubs.com or call me at 513-531-2690, ext. 255.You can also visit our website www.popwood.com to check out previous tool reviews and sign up for our free e-mail newsletter (focusing on tools) that's sent out every other week. —David Thiel, senior editor 18 Popular Woodworking April 2002 |
