cutting MDF which is better router or circular saw

[kiddk1]

i am cutting out my CP and needed advice on what to use on the mdf for cutting it.

[miles2912]

Saw board and circular saw.  Not as messy and will make a clean straight line.  The only time you would want to route MDF is when you are using a pattern bit to make a copy of one side.

Don

[babydickonboard]

another vote for circular saw + jig.

[Tahnok]

A circular saw is better, if you also have a jig saw to make curves. If you are only looking to buy a single tool, a router is more versatile.

[cnlmoore]

Circular saw is good as long as the panel is fairly large.  Cutting smaller pieces of MDF with a circular saw can be dangerous if not done properly.  Table saw would be the best bet.  MDF + router = a ton of dust.  You would have to make multiple passes to cut clean through.  OK to use for a joystick or trackball cutout as it does provide nice clean edges.  Good luck.

[mccoy178]

I put my vote in for the router.  It makes perfect edges around angles such as the monitor area.  I know it's dusty, but how many of these do you plan on making?  I believe it to be the highest quality tool for making the sides.

[kiddk1]

thanks, I have all 3 a router, circular saw and jig saw.  I think I will go with the circular and jig based on what you have explained.

[Tahnok]

If you have all 3, use them all. Surely you have used them before. You know the tools strengths and weaknesses; use them accordingly. There is really no right or wrong way to build a cabinet as long as you come out with the same thing.

[horseboy]

There is really no right or wrong way to build a cabinet as long as you come out with the same thing.

Unless you lose something else along the way...like a finger.

[Tahnok]

Wrong way to build a cabinet, no. Wrong way to use tools, yes. Like I said, you have to know when to use which tools.

[ShinAce]

+1 for circular saw and saw board(makeshift obviously).

I only use a jig for rough curves and speaker holes.

[horseboy]

Wrong way to build a cabinet, no. Wrong way to use tools, yes. Like I said, you have to know when to use which tools.

Touche

[mccoy178]

I use my router on most every single straight edge.  A circular saw is good, but you can't beat the perfection of the router.  The only time I don't use it in some capacity is instances where the table saw was used on long cuts like my middle pieces.  Any exposed edge almost always makes its way to the router.  I use a jig saw to make the cut close, then I brad nail a guide on and voila, it's done within minutes.

[Lilwolf]

Don't you have problems with going through router bits really fast?  I hardly ever use mine for anything but plunging.  And cutting 3/4" think always heat up the bits so much they start to blacken

but I have a cheap router, and buy cheap bits.  Do I need to spend more cash on the bits or router?

btw, circular saws work great and fast.  Then jigs for the corners...

[mccoy178]

Wolf,
I've never had a problem with mdf.  The bits tear right through it.  I would say your problem probably lies with the bits.  I spent some decent money on the basics and they are great.  The 1/2" shanks are kick ass.  I have the $100 Porter Cable router.

[kiddk1]

I dont have a router table so my fear is the router may wander.  Also what can I use to make the grooves for the T-molding?

[MikeDeuce]

I dont have a router table so my fear is the router may wander.  Also what can I use to make the grooves for the T-molding?

You can always use a template and a pattern/flush trim bit. I dont think most people would use a router table for the larger arcade stuff. And you use a slot cutting bit for the t-molding grooves.

I like to rough cut with a jig/circular/bandsaw/etc then bring in the router with a template/guide/straightedge for the clean edge. Saves me from having to make multiple passes.

[Tahnok]

Also what can I use to make the grooves for the T-molding?

The only thing you should use is a router with a slot cutting bit. Do a search and you will find tons of opinions on which size you need.

[MYX]

For matching the sides, I used a scroll saw to get close then routed. If you work with the router a little, it becomes a very comfortable tool to work with. I would not suggest using it as the saw to cut all your pieces. Even with a face mask, I fear I will be sneezing sawdust for a year.  (how's that for a visual?)