Makita mortiser technique

[vtframer]

Hi all - I'm getting ready to cut my first through-mortise (9" total depth) with the makita chain mortiser.  I've heard that it can be tricky and if you're not careful the chain will catch and slam down against the stop.  Is there a good technique out there for doing these without that happening?

Thanks!

[Jim_Rogers]

Half way from each side is the normal set up. That prevent the risk of breaking off your dept stop bracket.
And it usually helps to align the mortise correctly.

At least that's what I do.

Jim Rogers

[logman]

I always loosen the depth adjustment so it can't slam against it and break it.

[vtframer]

Thanks guys!  Appreciate the advice :-)