Thread: Biscuit Joiner

My GMC BJ has cost me more in lost materials and time due to its lack of quality than any other hand power tool!( I wont include my orange coloured machines...)
I've had to make entire new face frame because the gmc adjustments dont stay put and you dont realise until after when you go to assemble the cabinet... now have a domino.

Carbatec how an Archer Biscuit Joiner for $139 on page 252 of their new catalogue. That seems like a pretty good price. Has anyone used one of these or any of the other Archer machines? What is the quality and accuracy like?

Originally Posted by jisk

Carbatec how an Archer Biscuit Joiner for $139 on page 252 of their new catalogue. That seems like a pretty good price. Has anyone used one of these or any of the other Archer machines? What is the quality and accuracy like?

I've got this model, bought mine about 4 yrs ago, it works well for the price. Just need to junk the cutter with a better quality one as it struggled to cut on Redgum and lost one of its teeth and also make sure that after making any adjustments that the lock screws are tightened down really well.

Might have to go and check it out then - thanks DJ.

In fact,
using pocket hole joinery is more accurate than using a cheap BJ. I use pocket holes where required, but also have the Domi. Just depends on what you wish to achieve.
Regards
Les

Hi
I believe the Australian Wood Review number 50 March 2006, did a review of biscut joiners and said for a budget alternative the Ryobi EBJ720K for $169 has produced a machine with considerable ability for a low price. When I look at how it performed in comparison to many of the more expensive joiners, it was almost as good as the top priced joiners and much better than the medium priced joiners that cost double or triple the money. The top of the range joiners that stand out above the rest in their test was the Lamello Top 20 at $1067 and the Porter Cable Pc-557 at $495.

They tested:Archer PT1301 at $139, DeWalt DW682-xe at $399, Freud JS102 at $418, GMC 1200w at $169, Lamello Classic C2 at $570, Lamello Top 20 at $1067, Makita 3901 at $550, porter Cable PC-557 at $495 and the Ryobi EBJ720K at $169.

The article reviewed and recommended Porter cable if $ not an issue. I got mine 2nd hand for $180 and it is just great to use. Best use so far was using biscuits to help align mitred boxes using the 135 degree angle setting that was, not sure if it still is, original to Porter cable.

Dahlsens in Sale vic, have the GMC at 50% off $75. I would probably risk $75 if I didn't have one. The current model looks pretty robust.

I would love domino so if someone has one going cheap let me know.

SN