Jointer, Safety and Jigs

[robertt]

I bought the Rigid Jointer the other day after reading the other thread here about the Rigid Jointer. However, I haven't used a jointer much (maybe 3 times) as I've always used my thickness planer since most of my experience has been in cabinet face frame construction and the joints were 90 degrees.

Now I have a stairway newell post to create that requires a 45 degree bevel. Working at a 90, seems relatively safe (as jointers go) but I'm concerned about my work slipping at a 45. Are there any tricks any of you have to doing miters with a jointer either using common practices or jigs?

Thanks,

Robert

[JSUPreston]

Unless I'm misunderstanding you, I would think that it would be easier to square up to 90 on the jointer and then use the TS to give you the 45. My Delta jointer will do 45, but I set it at 90 and have nerver moved it. I figured I could do it easier on my TS, plus I was scared I'd never the jointer quite back on 90. If there is a better way, someone please let me know too.

[robertt]

Unfortunately, these are 96 inch styles that I'm not sure a TS would make cleanly enough to be perfect joint. I did consider using just my TS as spending $350 for a tool that I will probably only use on this project was a little painful.

Robert

[Tom Miller]

I'm a little confused about what you're trying to do. Is the starting piece an 8' long post that has a square cross-section? Then, what do you want to end up with?

Regards,
Tom

[Wood_workur]

If you so desire to do that on a jointer, tilt the fence inward, if possible. Also, make a rough cut on the TS

[robertt]

Alex and Tom,

Thanks.

Just to clarify. The newell post is basically 4, 8 foot, raised panels with the outside styles mitered at 45 degrees. I was going to cut the 45 initially on my TS and use the jointer to clean up the cut so I would get a nice edge to join.

Hope this clarifies.

Robert

[Tom Miller]

OK, I get it now. I would cut the initial bevel on the TS, and clean up on the jointer, like you propose.

Concerning the jointer: Can you tip the top of the jointer fence towards you to set to 45 degrees? If so, you'll have a much easier time keeping the stock against the fence; easier than jointing at 90 degrees, in fact.

If not, return your Ridgid jointer and get a Jet. Just kidding.

Regards,
Tom

[Tom Miller]

I just remembered this. It may not be helpful for 45 degree jointing, but it really helped me with 90 degrees; especially when the bottom surface wants to ever-so-slightly pull away from the fence.

Regards,
Tom