Cutting Dadoes: Table Saw Stack vs Router vs Dado Plane

Dado Joint Uses

Shelving fits into case sides. Dividers seat in dadoes. Strong mechanical connection. Hides end grain effectively.

Table Saw Method

Dado blade stack cuts width. Multiple passes with single blade possible. Depth set to one-half thickness typically. Fence guides consistent positioning.

Router Method

Straight bit in router creates dados. Guide ensures straight cuts. Multiple passes for wide dadoes. Template routing increases precision.

Stopped Dadoes

End before edge for hidden joint. Square corners with chisel. Notch shelf to fit. Cleaner appearance than through dado.

Marcus Chen

Marcus Chen

Author & Expert

Marine journalist with 15 years covering the boating industry. Former sailboat captain and certified yacht broker.

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