Mitre Lock

[John Saxton]

Has any of you folk out there used a mitre lock joint in your choice of joints?

If so is it susceptible to weakness in open grain timbers?
Can it be used in a framing application?

I'm thinking of possibly investing in a cutter set but wonder at whether another choice in the arsenal is warranted without first some possible feedback!

TIA Cheers



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Johnno

[soundman]

I havn't used one myself but a mate of mine has done heaps of work with his.
He builds little mdf speaker boxes by the hundred and hee seems pretty keen on it for the job.
The set up is a bit of a fiddle to get it just right. but once set up for the particular job the results are prety impressive.
Ive seen the joints in all stages of the job and going together and I'm impressed.
For his use no clamps are required the joint seems to hold itself together.
He has a router and a sort of bench set up permanently for the job.
Seems they are good for joining same thikness panel goods.
The open grain woods would probably not be a problem with the right adhesive , my even be an advantage.
Tear out does not seem to be an issue as the tip speed of the tool is very high.
You may need a variable speed router as the speed limitations of the large cutter may dictate it. Not for hand held!!
If I had a reasonable excuse I'd get one.

[This message has been edited by soundman (edited 20 May 2002).]

[John Saxton]

Thanks Soundman for your input..in looking at alternatives in mitre joints I wondered how or whether the mitre joint would fare in a framing application.

I know of its usage in cabinetry with its tight/snug mating surfaces and may well be functional in frames.

Cheers

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Johnno

[soundman]

In frames I would be looking at things like rebates, buiscits, and a heap of funky "products" about like pocket hole screwing, tennoning systems and such.
Always looking for a better way too.

[John Saxton]

Have been there and done most of that with all the necessary jigs,just wonderin' at the versatility of this joint ...even in picture framing!!

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Johnno

[soundman]

Supose Ive always looked at it as a right angle box type joint but ther could be posibilities.
have you looked at glue joint bits or finger jointing thy look interesting too
The lock mitre joint does have lots of surface area for gloo to hand on to & seems to grab hold of its self prety well.