Woodworker's Journal 1993-17-4, страница 11

The suggested retail price is $69.95.

int ra Mike: The Incra Mike fastens between the basic jig and the fence and permits adjustment of the fence position in measurements smaller than ^l/i2 in. As with the other Incra components it can always return to it's original position with the use of the scales and templates. The suggested retail price is $4995.

Right Angle Fixture: Key to achieving precise cuts is that the work be solidly held. The Right Angle Fixture allows you to hold the work upright at a perfect 9(1-degree angle. It's made of an aluminum extrusion that engages the fence so that the work is fed straight into the bit. The suggested retail price is $29.95.

Master Template Library: The Master Template Library is a set of 50 insertable Lexan strips that enable you to easily make a variety of multi-spaced dovetail and box joints. The combination of the template strips and the dead-on positioning capability of the rack system mean you'll be ahle to create a fancy double-dovetail joint with the same accuracy as the simplest box joint. The suggested retail price is $24.95.

How If Worked

Using the Incra system reminded me of using a personal computer—there's hardware (the jig assembly), software (the handbook and templates) and a lot of capability once you've

Optional Incra Mike mounts between the Incra Jig Pro and the Pro Fence. A turn of the handle wrench moves the fence forward or backward in 'htm in. steps

July/August IW1

Incra Jig positioning racks adjust precisely to the nearest 'Lu in. step

invested time (the learning curve).

I used the jig to cut a variety of box joints, testing both the repeatability and accuracy of the template positioning. Once 1 had made successful test cuts, it was simply a matter of establishing a rhythm for carefully pushing the stock into the bit and withdrawing it. moving the fence over to the next set point indicated on the template.and repeating the process. The cam clamp that locks the top in place worked smoothly, with springs in the base lifting the top slightly so the racks disengage. The fence assembly can then be easily repositioned.

Things to Consider

When you've got a fence that can be accurately stepped in in. increments, with repeatability rivaling a milling machine, you may think perfection is inevitable. But other error sources can come into play to corrupt an otherw ise perfect world. Stock must be well supported and clamped—am creep affects the overall result. Also, your router hits must be accurately sized and bit run out must be minimal. Test cuts are always necessary to check the settings.

Summary

The jig and fence are well made and certainly provide excellent position repeatability—great for repetitive work. For making the basic equally spaced box joints and dovetails the Incra Jig must compete with simple shopmade jigs and w ith less intricate commercial dovetail jigs. On the other hand, w ith the Incra system you can make unequally spaced dovetails and some very showy joints (hat just aren't possible w ith other systems.

Because the router is fixed and the slock must be moved into the bit, the Incra system isn't your best choice for large work, like routing dovetails on dresser drawers or doing large carcase joinery. I would limit its use to more manageably sized work.

Finally. Incra sells a video tape to use in conjunction with the handbook. The tape is well done, and will help you gel started faster, shortening the learning curve. I recommend it. The suggested retail price is $19.95.

For more information contact Tay lor Design Group. P.O. Box 810262. Dallas. TX 75381. E5i

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