The mortise and tenon joint is a staple of woodworking. Creating them can pose a few challenges. Building a custom jig with the size and orientation of the joints is fine if you only need a single size and shape. But if you find yourself making several jigs to cover the varied m&t joints in even a single project then a variable jig is something you should consider.

The Leigh Jigs Super FMT Mortise and Tenon jig is a very nice answer to this challenge. The joints are created by using an array of snap in guides that allow you to cut a large variation of tenons and corresponding mortises.

A specialized router base predrilled with many holes that allow it to receive many of today’s most popular routers. Aligning and attaching the base to your router is something that needs care and precision. In fact every step of aligning the jig is crucial. Any mistakes here will show up on every cut you make. Unfortunately with the selection of routers these days leigh can only write detailed instructions for some of the steps but is can be a bit vague when it comes to your specific router. It would be unrealistic to expect any more then that.

After getting the plate attached to the router and adjusting the collet to the perfect center using a centering mandrill, I was ready to make some sample cuts. Marking the location of the joint and adjusting the final alignment with a crosshair marker. Tightening the 2 F-clamps used for holding the wood firmly in place. The clamps are held fast to the jig with powerful magnets to keep them from falling onto the floor when you loosen them. This is a well thought-out feature, and one I found very useful.

With the current economy these days (or lack there of) it is unfortunately a large factor when buying tools for your woodshop. The Super FMT is priced at around $520 with the addition of the various accessory kits which range from $99 to $280 depending on the selection you want you can invest around $700. This is a substantial amount for a single use, dedicated machine. I hate to say it, but if you only find yourself needing a dozen or so m&t joints over the course of a year this is probably not an investment I would make. But if you need a larger amount of mortise and tenon joints then this is an excellent jig for you. The repeatable accuracy of the Super FMT and the quality of the workmanship by Leigh Jigs shows up in the finished product.

Leigh Super FMT Frame Mortise and Tenon Jig Enjoy the same speed and precision of the FMT at a fraction of the cost! The same great features produce the same great joints. Simplicity is the key. The Super FMT uses just one bit, one guide and .. Leigh Super FMT Frame Mortise and Tenon Jig