Putting a rebate on timber

[Finwoodhill]

I need to rebate the edge of some 3" x 2" timber to make a gate. What is the best/most cost effective tool to achieve this?

[mrs_nordling]

The best tool to use is a router (not the one attached to your pc). I bought one several years ago together with a set of bits. They can be a bit tricky if you've not used one before. My advice would be to see if anyone local is having any work done, if there's a carpenter there slip him a fiver if it's only one piece of timber you need rebating

[vulcan]

I agree the router is the best machine but a good one is expensive. A circular saw will also do the job if you have one but as mrs nordling says a local joinery shop is best and it will do the job in minutes

[Finwoodhill]

Thanks - I was considering the router option but there seem to be quite a lot of cheapish ones that look like they would only last 5 mins. Has anyone come across a decent but affordable model please? cheers

[Clanad]

I've used this method often... http://www.buildeazy....sic-fence-gate-1.html ...learned it from some timber joiners that still use hand tools to make large building structures... If you do it this way. make sure you have a sharp circular saw blade (or a new one) to help avoid splintering. Last timber I worked on (here in the U.S.) was a western cedar 8 X 8 and it splintered easily sending shards flying every which way... use eye protection regardless of method you use!

[AlBags]

Finwood ... look for an Elu Plunge 1/4" shaft on eBay. Powerful for the size. I have a 1/4" and a 1/2".
It will rebate a gate post fine. Do it in a few passes, and make sure you rout in the correct direction!

Clanad ... Finer blade and faster speed is better for hardwood (and check direction, otherwise blade will rip out splinters)

[AlBags]

PS. Over here, Clanad, most folks are using European Oak or Elm for period restoration (like I do) Nice to machine but ruddy hard!

[Toleman]

If its soft wood then why not use a rebate planer?

You can also rebate on electric planers too.