[Q&A] Can the Jointmaker Pro (JMPv2) rip a longer board more than 6" length?

Q: What inspired the test?

The challenge arose when a customer inquired whether the JMPv2 Jointmaker Pro could rip a 1/8-inch thick strip from a 12-inch long piece of wood. While the saw is officially spec'd for a maximum rip length of 6 inches, curiosity led to an experiment with a longer board to see if it could handle the task.

Q: What was the experiment setup?

To test the capabilities of the JMPv2, we set up the following:

• Material: An 18-inch cherry board, 1/8-inch thick.
• Setup:
  • A reference fence was created using double-stick tape to keep the board aligned.
  • The board was securely clamped to the saw.
  • A crosscut blade was used instead of a rip blade, showcasing the versatility of the saw.
• Additional Support: A second board was placed on top of the cherry board during the cut to ensure clean results.
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Q: What was the cutting technique?

We employed a methodical approach:

1. Gradually added pitch to the blade throughout the cut, raising the blade slightly when necessary.
2. Avoided lowering the pitch or blade during the process unless the wood began to bind.
3. Progressed the board forward as he cut, ensuring it stayed secure throughout the operation.

Q: Were there any modifications or adjustments made?

Yes, to improve stability and precision:

• We recommended designing a custom jig with toggle clamps to make clamping and alignment easier for future attempts.

Q: Did the JMPv2 succeed?

Absolutely! Despite exceeding the saw's standard 6-inch max rip length specification, we successfully cut a 1/8-inch thick strip from the 18-inch cherry board. The process required careful setup and deliberate cutting, but it proved the saw could handle the challenge.

Q: What tips were learned from the experiment?

• Clean Cuts: Using a board on top of the material being ripped helped produce clean results as the cut finished.
• Blade Considerations: Although a rip blade would typically be ideal for such tasks, the crosscut blade worked well, emphasizing the saw's versatility.
• Preparation is Key: A secure clamping system and patience are crucial for extending the saw’s capabilities.

Q: Is the JMPv2 suitable for ripping longer pieces?

While not officially designed for this purpose, the test demonstrated that the JMPv2 can rip longer pieces with creative techniques and proper setup. Users looking to push the saw’s boundaries should be prepared to experiment and develop custom jigs for their specific needs.

Q: Any final thoughts?

This experiment highlighted the JMPv2 Jointmaker Pro’s versatility and potential beyond its standard specifications. With some ingenuity and care, tasks like ripping long, thin strips are achievable, making this tool an even more valuable addition to any workshop.