Friday, March 14, 2008

Four New Festool Tools!

Wow, is Festool ever bringing it now! Three new tools will be introduced on May 1st, 2008: The MFK700 Modular Router, the OF2200 Router, and a new Multifunction Table, the MFT/3. Festool will follow that up with the introduction of the long-awaited Kapex 10” Sliding Compound Miter Saw on July 1st.
All four power tools adhere to Festool’s motto of ‘Faster/Easier/Smarter’. I would add ‘Cleaner’ to the mix, as all four tools will provide shops with plenty on dust-free action when used with one of Festool’s dust extractors. Festool continues to solidify itself as the most innovative power tool company in the world with these introductions. Here are some highlights of each new tool:


MFK700 Modular Router

Despite the price tag ($510), the MFK700 is a cost-saving multipurpose tool: quickly change the router base, rather than reaching for a different power tool, and you’ll be equipped to handle a wide range of routing applications. You are able to attach and remove all of the components of the MFK without using a tool. The MFK, with its 720 Watt motor, will quickly become the most versatile tool in your shop.


OF2200 Router

While it is usually hard to find a router with decent dust collection, the OF2200 router allows you to work cleaner with a retractable, spring-loaded 36-degree dust shroud. The shroud maximizes dust extraction while providing high visibility of the workpiece. The OF2200 also offers tremendous plunge depth capacity. With 3.15” of travel, the plunge depth is among the best in the industry. There is also a micro-adjustment knob to fine tune the plunge depth in increments of 1/256”! The four position depth stop turret provides pre-configurable plunge depths including a 5/64” finishing pass setting. Looking for power and stability? The OF2200 router features a triple bearing design which dampens spindle and bit deflection. With bearings at the top, middle and bottom, the spindle is less likely to wobble. This is particularly important considering the sheer power (2200 Watts!) and the centrifugal forces exerted with spinning large bits at speeds up to 22,000 RPM. One of my favorite features is the ratcheting collet. Press the spindle locking lever to disengage spindle movement, then use a single wrench to ratchet off the unwanted collet.


Kapex Sliding Compound Miter Saw

Festool fanatics have been waiting for this one! Finally a sliding compound miter saw that combines a large cutting capacity with a compact lightweight design that achieves the precision needed for high-quality results and detailed solutions to inspire any professional user. Why not try it for yourself?


You can preorder any of these new tools at BurnsTools.com.