Anyone use the MMC power checkering tool?

[Alex]

I've been thinking about investing in a power checkering outfit. I noticed that Brownells sells the MMC head only which would work with the motor I have for my Ngraver. One of my friends, who does beautiful hand checkering, had tried a power checkerer years ago (I don't know which brand) and said he'd never touch one again. Are they really that bad, I've heard a lot of good things about them too.

 

[stocker]

Alex: I find the MMC tool to be a great aid. I suspect job time is reduced by as much as 50%. It takes a bit of practice to use and you can go very wrong very fast if you slip. If I had to go back to complete hand checkering I wouldn't bother checkering at all.

I prefer to do two passes with the power tool and then tidy up by hand. It is also necessary to use the hand tools to extend some lines to the edge of the pattern after every few passes as mine at least only cuts in one direction (across the pattern, it will cut either forward or backwards). Depending on layout you run out of a guiding line against the edge of the pattern before the cutter reaches the pattern. The distance you are short on a line is cumulative over each following line. Perfectly straight master lines are the key to getting it working right and periodic checks with a straight edge to ensure you aren't crowding the tool to one side.

Practice on scrap pieces until you get a feel for correct depth of cut and moving the tool. best.

 

[DeBee]

I understand the thing is like a mini circular saw!

Is there somewhere cheaper to get one other than Brownells???

I would like to try one before I buy one. I can already tell that hand checkering pushes the limits of my patience but the MMC might be too much to handle! Looks like it cuts FAST.

Any additional details on the useage of this tool would be interesting to me as well...

Thanks

 

[Alex]

I was looking through my gunsmithing books last night and found a good article on the MMC in Gunsmithing Tips and Projects. It gives a good explanation. I also seem to remember Monte Kennedy talking about a power checkerer in his book, but I don't have my copy handy at the moment. Thanks for the information.

 

[stocker]

I acquired mine used and traded a custom restocking job for a double shotgun for it. Suggest you watch for a used one on E-Bay or??