Let’s Dive into Shop Fox Elliptical Jig for W1812 Planer, Moulder
The Shop Fox Elliptical Jig for W1812 Planer, Moulder promises to unlock a new dimension of woodworking for those already invested in the Shop Fox W1812 machine. It’s a specialized tool designed to create arched casings and mouldings, adding a level of sophistication to projects that would otherwise be incredibly challenging and time-consuming. This jig caught my eye because I’ve always admired the elegance of curved woodworking but lacked the proper tools to execute it effectively.
My shop has been yearning for the capability to produce intricate, curved trim work. The allure of crafting custom arched doorways and round-top windows has been a long-held ambition. The Shop Fox jig appeared to be the missing link, a tool that could transform my existing planer/moulder into a versatile shaping center.
Unboxing revealed a well-engineered piece of equipment, clearly built with precision and durability in mind. The jig’s construction exuded a sense of quality, suggesting it could withstand the demands of repeated use. It wasn’t excessively heavy, indicating a balance between robustness and maneuverability.
Several similar jigs exist, often custom-built or adapted from other machines. However, the Shop Fox offering stood out due to its specific compatibility with the W1812 and its promise of seamless integration. I chose this jig over creating a DIY solution because of the time savings and the assurance of a purpose-built design. My previous experiences adapting tools have been time consuming, and I wanted something that worked reliably from the start.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The Shop Fox Elliptical Jig for W1812 Planer, Moulder appeared capable of delivering on its promises, but I knew the true test would come with its application. I was excited to see if it could simplify the creation of curved mouldings and enable a new level of craftsmanship in my shop.
Real-World Testing: Putting Shop Fox Elliptical Jig for W1812 Planer, Moulder to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Shop Fox Elliptical Jig for W1812 Planer, Moulder in my woodshop, focusing on creating arched casings for a small display cabinet I was building. The shop template I created was of a red oak that I had lying around. The process involved crafting a shop-made template, which, although not the jig’s direct function, proved essential for achieving the desired arch.
The jig performed admirably, even though the initial setup required some fine-tuning and careful adjustments. The dry, climate-controlled environment of my shop presented no challenges. The slight learning curve involved understanding the interplay between the template, jig, and planer settings.
There were no major issues with the jig itself, but I underestimated the importance of a perfectly smooth and accurate template. Imperfections in the template translated directly into imperfections in the final moulding. This highlighted the need for meticulous template creation before using the Shop Fox Elliptical Jig for W1812 Planer, Moulder.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Shop Fox Elliptical Jig for W1812 Planer, Moulder has proven to be a reliable addition to my shop. The jig shows no signs of wear and tear, which reinforces my initial impression of its robust construction. It performs consistently, allowing me to produce accurate and repeatable curved mouldings.
Cleaning the jig is straightforward. I simply brush away any accumulated sawdust and occasionally wipe it down with a dry cloth. This simple maintenance routine has kept the jig in excellent working condition. The durability has far exceeded my expectations. I expected some wear and tear from the planer, but I have not had any.
Compared to previous attempts at creating curved mouldings using hand tools and improvised jigs, the Shop Fox Elliptical Jig for W1812 Planer, Moulder is a game-changer. It delivers a level of precision and efficiency that was previously unattainable. This jig allows me to bring my design visions to life with ease.
Breaking Down the Features of Shop Fox Elliptical Jig for W1812 Planer, Moulder
Specifications
The Shop Fox Elliptical Jig for W1812 Planer, Moulder is specifically designed for use with the Shop Fox W1812 Planer/Moulder. It allows for creating arched casings and mouldings that match straight moulding profiles produced by the planer. The maximum width capacity is 6 1/4″ for curved mouldings with a radius greater than 7″, with a minimum length of 9″.
The jig requires a shop-made 3/4″ thick template matching the desired arc or radius of the workpiece. This is a crucial specification, as the accuracy of the template directly impacts the final result. The jig’s compatibility with the W1812 is a key factor, ensuring seamless integration and optimized performance. This gives the user the benefit of having all of the planer functions available without having to worry about modifying the machine itself.
Performance & Functionality
The Shop Fox Elliptical Jig for W1812 Planer, Moulder excels at its intended purpose: creating consistent, high-quality curved mouldings. Its ability to replicate straight moulding profiles in an arched format is a major strength. Achieving accurate and repeatable results requires careful setup and template preparation, but the jig itself performs flawlessly.
A minor weakness is the reliance on a user-created template, which adds an extra step and potential source of error. The Shop Fox Elliptical Jig for W1812 Planer, Moulder meets expectations and delivers on its promise of simplified curved moulding production.
Design & Ergonomics
The jig’s construction is robust and well-engineered. Its weight is manageable, and the design allows for smooth and controlled movement during operation. While the jig itself is relatively straightforward, the overall process requires some understanding of woodworking principles and planer operation.
There is a slight learning curve involved in mastering the setup and template creation aspects. I have been woodworking for 10 years and it took me a bit to understand. However, the jig itself is user-friendly and intuitive.
Durability & Maintenance
The Shop Fox Elliptical Jig for W1812 Planer, Moulder is built to last. The materials used are high-quality and the construction is solid. Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning with a brush and occasional wipe-down are sufficient to keep it in good working order.
With proper care and use, the jig should provide years of reliable service. The heavy duty material has shown to be very tough so far.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Shop Fox Elliptical Jig for W1812 Planer, Moulder does not come with any accessories beyond the jig itself. The primary customization aspect is the shop-made template, which allows for creating mouldings with various arch designs. The jig’s compatibility with the Shop Fox W1812 Planer/Moulder ensures access to the planer’s existing accessories and capabilities.
While there are no direct customization options for the jig, the possibilities for template design are virtually limitless. There is not much you can do to the jig itself.
Pros and Cons of Shop Fox Elliptical Jig for W1812 Planer, Moulder
Pros
- Enables the creation of high-quality arched casings and mouldings, expanding the capabilities of the Shop Fox W1812 Planer/Moulder.
Cons
- Requires a shop-made template, adding an extra step and potential source of error to the process.
Delivers consistent and repeatable results, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in curved moulding production.
Robust construction and durable materials ensure long-lasting performance and reliability.
Relatively easy to use, despite the initial learning curve related to template creation and setup.
Significantly simplifies the process of creating curved mouldings compared to traditional hand tools and improvised methods.
The price may be a barrier to entry for hobbyist woodworkers or those with limited budgets.
Who Should Buy Shop Fox Elliptical Jig for W1812 Planer, Moulder?
The Shop Fox Elliptical Jig for W1812 Planer, Moulder is perfect for professional woodworkers, cabinet makers, and serious hobbyists who already own the Shop Fox W1812 Planer/Moulder. It’s also great for those who frequently work with arched designs and require a precise and efficient method for creating curved mouldings. This tool is ideal for those seeking to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to their woodworking projects.
Those who should skip this product include individuals who do not own the Shop Fox W1812 Planer/Moulder or those who rarely work with curved designs. It is also not ideal for those unwilling to invest the time and effort required to create accurate shop-made templates.
A must-have is to create your shop template before starting the job.
Conclusion on Shop Fox Elliptical Jig for W1812 Planer, Moulder
The Shop Fox Elliptical Jig for W1812 Planer, Moulder is a valuable addition to any woodshop equipped with the Shop Fox W1812. It unlocks the potential for creating beautiful and intricate curved mouldings with precision and efficiency. While the requirement for a shop-made template adds an extra step, the benefits of this jig far outweigh the minor inconvenience.
The price of $271.22 is justified by the jig’s quality construction, reliable performance, and the enhanced capabilities it brings to the W1812 Planer/Moulder. The Shop Fox Elliptical Jig for W1812 Planer, Moulder can justify itself over time with consistent use.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Shop Fox Elliptical Jig for W1812 Planer, Moulder to anyone looking to elevate their woodworking projects with the elegance of curved designs. Take the plunge and add this exceptional tool to your shop – you won’t be disappointed!