Thread: DIY Furniture: Dowelmax or Festool Domino?

So Lignum, in your opinion the faster tool is the better one, and justifies the 3x cost. That's ok, if you make furniture for a living I won't argue. But for the DIYer, or hobbyist, the Dowelmax is a no-brainer.

Where have i mentioned speed? Not once have i mentioned it, you have just made that up. Those who know me, know speed isnt part of my woodworking ways

It what the domino can do as an allrounder that gives it the edge.

Im curious. Why have you started this thread asking for opinions, but have shouted down those who favor the dowelmax

I wanted to use this thread to make a decision for myself, Lignum. It was not started it for everyone's benefit. And I was leaning towards the Dowelmax from the get-go.

So, if it isn't the speed, can you tell me exactly what the Domino can do that the Dowelmax cannot do, just for interest's sake? Thanks.

Two points, US-Oz,

1. It is just a tool.
2. So is Lignum

About #1, that means it doesn't matter what anyone uses, there is no right or wrong in personal choice.

About #2, well, you get used to Lignum's dogmatic and muddle-headed views about tools. Search on Sawstop and you'll see what I mean.

Originally Posted by US-Oz

I can you tell me exactly what the Domino can do that the Dowelmax cannot do, just for interest's sake? Thanks.

Well I`ll let Ron do that as he is the expert and im just the tool

Oh, I agree with you about the "just a tool" aspect, Ron, and I certainly would buy a Domino if I had a furniture business.

Lignum, perhaps reading the thread before shooting from the lip would give you the answers you seek.

Both LGS and I have previously mentioned things a Domino can do that I doubt a Dowelmax would be able to achieve. After I've met with LGS I dare say I will have learned one or two more, and I suspect he will find a couple of advantages to Dowelmax.

Are you a member at FOG? A little searching would find a few threads involving people who own and use both tools. But they're probably too open-minded to fit into your prejudices, right?

As I said to Ron in a PM, I should probably re-study the Domino sales pamphlet I have somewhere. If people contend that the Domino can do angles and the Dowelmax cannot, that's not strictly true, because with the right shim or easily-made jig, it can.



It also does shelving.

Originally Posted by US-Oz

If people contend that the Domino can do angles and the Dowelmax cannot, that's not strictly true, because with the right shim or easily-made jig, it can.

Who has said that. I must have missed It. But as Ron kindly pointed out i havnt read the thread properly.

And I still see nothng wrong with saying “For the casual DIY`er the Dowlmax has to be the go. But for those who want to step it up a notch, it’s a no brainier. Domino craps all over any dowel jig. Its that simple"

Contrary to Rons assessment of my post, I clearly pointed out the Dowlmax is the go for the DIY`er. Why would I recommend an expensive tool for the DIY hobbyist?

I think you could modify your statement from "For the casual DIYer" to "For the DIYer". Do you agree? I cannot see the value in the 3x more expensive tool for the DIYer, unless money is no object.

Originally Posted by US-Oz

I think you could modify your statement from "For the casual DIYer" to "For the DIYer". Do you agree? .

we will agree to disagre on this, as you have made your mind up and dont need any of my Domino feedback. I`ll leave it to Ron and others to help you

Ron pointed out to me in a PM that the Domino can do things like a 3-way mitre joint, and he couldn't see an easy way for the Dowelmax to do the same. Now I don't know whether or not a Dowelmax can do a 3-way mitre, but it's such a rare join that it hardly matters to 99.9% of DIYers.

The other day I cut 25 dominos in 6 lengths for a tabletop and glued it in under 15 minutes (I had a helper on spreading the glue). I find the domino gets things done fast and accurately and don't regret the purchase at all. I can put two pieces together, make random marks without measuring, then cut the mortices. Dip the dominos, insert in holes, wipe a smear more glue then clamp.

If it was stolen it would be a priority to replace.

Groggy, the Dowelmax would do the same, but not in 15 mins. If money is not a consideration, the Domino seems to suit.