Router table rip cuts

[fras23]

Hi!

I have a small workshop. My main power tools at the moment are a router table with 1/2" router, a circular saw and a compound sliding mitre saw.

I am interested in a project that requires ripping 3/4" deep stock to reasonably large sizes eg 80x40cm. This goes beyond what my compound sliding saw can handle even if I use a stop block and reverse the piece.

A table saw would be an obvious choice, but I don't have much space left and I'm not keen on them from a safety perspective.

Am I crazy for thinking of using my router table for long cuts? I realise it wouldn't be quick but I have confidence in the accuracy of the fence and if it works I'm fine with it. Does anyone do this on a regular basis and are there any specific bits anyone would recommend? I would imagine a strong thin carbide straight cutting bit would be best.

Thanks

 

[beech1948]

You could also make one of these

http://www.popularmechanics.com/home/reviews/4283497

You could choose to make one only 3 ft long or maybe 8ft long.

They work well, are home made, and are accurate as you will need.

Al

 

[doctor Bob]

Am I crazy for thinking of using my router table for long cuts?

Yes

 

[Racers]

+1

And with a thin bit you would have to do multiple shallow passes compounding any errors.
Make a saw board or buy a track saw.

Pete

 

[fras23]

thanks all! I think I will give the home made guide a go, looks like a great solution.

 

[carlb40]

One other thing to consider apart from the noise, loads of dust, the length of time to do this on a router table. Is the waste of material, even a 6mm bit is over twice the width of a saw blade. So multiply the loss of 4mm per cut x X cuts and you can say good bye to many £s of timber.

 

[AndyT]

If I've read this right, you want to make rip cuts in some 3/4" thick wood, with the cuts being about 80cm long. The cheapest, quickest way to do this would be to use a rip saw. One of those things with a handle that you move up and down! (Added benefit - it takes up very little space.)

Power tools are not the only answer, especially in a small home workshop.

(Somebody had to say it.)

 

[custard]

I agree with Andy T, I'm a power tool disciple but hand tools could easily handle this job without even breaking a sweat.

 

[clivethecarpenter]

jigsaw and then finish off with a plane ?