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Building an Arcade Cabinet - Questions

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Shredder:
We've got plans.  It'll be based on a Konami Simpsons Cabinet, to replace my old/used Wizards of War hybrid.  There's going to be a few modifications, however, for easier board storage.

But, two questions...

What's the best wood choice to use for building it?  I' ve been told either MDF or Partical Board.

Also, what's the best way to actually assemble the thing?  Heavy Duty glue?  Super Sized nails?

Thanks...

steve_pss:
MDF - stay away from particle board. Most of us, myself included use drywall screws.

eldercaribou:
I got lucky and found 3/4" ash plywood at Home Depot for the same price as pine... it is nice to work with and the wood has a nice texture - I like wood vs. mdf, but that is a personal thing (ymmv)

For actual construction, I used the "screw & glue" approach for strength with 1 1/4" deck screws, and just screws for the panels I might want to remove someday... for the load bearing part of the monitor mounts, I added counter-sunk 1/4" carriage bolts as well, but I tend to over-engineer :)  

The nice thing about using deck screws with the wood is that they can be "pulled" into the wood slightly, effectively countersinking them without needing to buy a $15 countersink bit...

Mr. Dude:
I used MDF on mine but you could also use plywood or another wood of choice... I do agree though DO NOT use particle board.  Also the screw and glue method is the way to go.  I used wood screws and lots of wood glue. :)

Mugzilla:
I would sand the MDF where is is going to be glued to other pieces of MDF. This will remove the waxy surface, and make for a heck of a bond.

Just my $0.02

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