New Product - "CMT Router Table with Large Insert"

The next step is to cut the panels. The software program gave us the exact measurements, but Beth still double checks the numbers. The frame is dry fit and the measurements are easily made — from "lip" to lip. This is the same measurement that you would have if you were measuring inside the groove. She will subtract 1/4" from the measurement to have room for the Panalign Strips.
	Beth carefully cuts the panel using the Incra 5000. You can see at the right, she is using the Incra Stop which she has set for the exact length she needs.
This time, Beth takes the midsize router from the garage. It is the PorterCable 7529 — a 2 hp plunge router. In the past, I have used only the Hitachi M12V which boasted a 3 1/2 hp motor. It will be interesting to see first hand what this 2 hp unit will do, and if it is up to the panel raising task.
	This router is unique since it has available a height adjustment knob (arrow.) Unfortunately this adjusts the plunger's depth mechanism.  This works quite well when using it manually, but in the table,  you have to plunge to the new setting. Beth and I both found it difficult to apply plunging pressure without pushing the insert plate out.    However, once this height is set, it can be locked and left in — if 2 horse power is enough.
Beth is routing the raised panel in four increments to minimize the amount of work required from this router. Staging the cut in that way, she was able to make the sequence of cuts without exertion of the router.    We tried to make the cut in two moves as we would normally do, and the router bogged down. This is maple which is moderately hard. In red oak or ash, it would be much less forgiving.
	Beth examines the cut very closely. The final pass cleaned up the cut and the panel looks very good.
Beth tries the new panel in the frame.
	It is still just dry fit, but she can't resist looking at it in place on the garage. It will look great with an oil finish.    A number of friends have asked if it makes sense to spend so much money for figured maple and padauk for "shop cabinets." I think so. For one, it gives Beth and me some serious sampling of our craft. Secondly, we spend a lot of time in the shop so why shouldn't it be the best that we can make it.    Next week, we will try that big router of Porter Cable's. I am hoping that the addition of a RouterRaizer will allow it to be "tamed" for router table use. In any case, we will be finished with the garage and on to some new project(s).