One of the most significant accomplishments that I have experienced in my woodworking was when I first executed a perfect mortise and tenon joint. I have been able to sand a wayward tenon to perfection while fine-tuning an errant mortise. Some would argue that the only want to perfect this process is to do it by hand with hand tools, but it takes a long time, and if you’re going to make money woodworking, this process is not practical. I went on a mission to find the best joiner that I could and was happily surprised when I tried the Festool Domino DF700 joiner.
I specialize in a multitude of different types of woodwork, and the Festool Domino DF700 joiner works for each one of them as long as the machine is big enough for the job; there are a few jobs where I found that the tool simply did not work.
Continue reading because I will share more later in this Festool Domino DF700 review.
The Festool Domino DF700
There are many different uses that I have found for my Domino DF700. These include:
- I like to use the Domino DF700 for making solid wood furniture as it helps with securing stability in the frame and tunnel design.
- I have used the machine to help me with creating high-quality tables and chairs.
- The DF700 has helped with profiled and folded door frames in pieces of furniture.
- I could get the assistance that I needed by creating frames for doors on my home’s interior and exterior.
- The machine does a great job of creating stable miter joints.
- I was able to use the DF700 to create plates or in connection with wide cornices.
With so many uses, I would have expected a job that the DF700 would not be able to accomplish. However, to date, the machine has handled all of the jobs that I have thrown its way.
The Specs
- Included in Package:
- Domino cutter D 12
- 2 x empty dowel box
- Additional stop
- WAF 12 open-ended spanner
- SYSTAINER SYS 5 T-LOC
- Domino cutter D 12
- Can Stabilize Joints Up to 14 x 140 mm
- Special Parented Routing System that Maintains Accuracy
- 720 W of Power are Needed for Use
- 10-50 mm Routing Height Adjustment
- Idle Engine Speed is 21 000 min
- 0-90 degree Mitre Routing
- 15-70 mm Depth Stop for Routing Depth
- 27 mm Dust Extraction Connection Diameter
- 70.00 mm Maximum Routing Depth
- 5.20 kg Weight
- Includes 4 Diameters with Domino Slot Cutter (8 mm, 10 mm, 12 mm, and 14 mm)
- Mains Drive Type
The Pros
- Saves Time (I noticed that I was able to get jobs done in about half of the time with this machine compared to my old stationary machine.)
- Quick and Easy Adjusts Help with Accuracy (The parented routing system guides the pieces together and helps ensure accuracy.)
- All System Accessories Work with Both Joiners (If you previously purchased the DF500, you won’t have to buy new accessories. This was a big selling point for me.)
- Very Safe (The before-mentioned parented routing system helps to ensure safety by keeping the movements smooth.)
- Features CleanTec (CleanTec is a unique system that keeps your area clean while you are working. This can help increase safety and help save cleaning time.)
The Cons
- Intimidating at First (When I was first using the DF700 it was intimidating.)
- Some Users Prefer the DF500 (I have talked with some friends who bought the DF700 after hearing me rave about it. A few of them have stated that they wished they would have just stuck with their DF500.)
- Pricey (The DF700 costs over $1400.)
What’s the Difference Between the DF700 and the DF500?
If you have the Festool Domino DF500 and are interested in how the DF700 compares, here is a short comparison of the main differences.
DF500 | DF700 | |
Cutter Sizes Available | 4, 5, 6, 8, & 10 mm | 8, 10, 12, & 14 mm |
Maximum Depth | 1 3/32” | 2 3/4″ |
Weight | 7 lbs. | 11.4 lbs. |
Cost | $1469 | $1425 |
Project Size | Small to Medium | Large-Scale Furniture |
Projects | Small Furniture, Boxes, | Entry Doors, Big Tables, |
Frames, Cabinetry, etc. | Beds, etc. |
Conclusion
The Festool Domino DF700 is the perfect tool for anyone who regularly works at the art of woodworking. I have been able to tackle any problem that I have attempted with this machine. There were few downsides, and most of them go away after long-term use since they are related to learning how to use the device.