The Festool multifunction table may become your favorite tool in the store
Festool may have engineered the next evolutionary step in bench technology. With its compact size and light weight, you can easily bring the MFT/3 to any job site. However, it may find a more common home in the workshop. Festool multi-function tables are packed with features that make clamping faster, easier and allow for repeatability when cutting with plunge saws and routers. Ultimately, the Festool MFT/3 Multifunction Workbench is designed to simplify it all – routing, grinding, clamping, assembling… you name it.
At first glance, Festool multifunction tables have two main features. First, it's still very portable. Second, the Overseer seems to be good at providing multiple ways to reduce setup time for cutting and clamping.
The Festool MFT/3 weighs 62 lbs. While not overly heavy, it has the necessary sturdiness to support nearly 265 lbs. s material. Because the legs fold up, you can use the desk at heights (35 inches tall) or fold the legs and work on the ground.
MFT/3 that hijacks a mobile workbench or cart
Some have integrated the Festool MFT/3 into a mobile workbench or trolley. This makes assembly easy and it is even possible to use it as a kick table for the saw. Examples we've seen include storage for Festool power tools, a CT duster and some Systainers with 3" or 4" casters for some mobility.
A true multipurpose workbench
As the name suggests, the real magic of the table lies in its versatility, made possible mainly by the perforated top and V-groove side rails. The top features a perforated grid pattern that works with Festool's clamps to quickly and easily secure workpieces, even irregularly shaped ones. The integrated V-groove side rails allow you to attach Festool's angle units and angle stops to the table.
These tools allow you to make repeatable and precise angle cuts. They also give you some more reliable points for fixing the jigs.
The Festool MFT/3 multifunction table also features an integrated rail system that can be adjusted to a maximum cutting depth of 3 inches. It also accurately cuts material over 27 inches wide, a challenge for even the largest miter saw. The rail system fits any Festool TS series saws, Trion jigsaws and OF series routers.
Ergonomics and Usability
Festool seems to have really paid attention to the ergonomics of this system. It sounds silly when it involves a table, but it matters. For example, the tensioning knobs on the legs are placed farther from the side of the table to prevent scratching your hands as you make adjustments.
One last thing worth noting includes the desktop. When it inevitably gets soiled and damaged, you can unhook it and turn it over. This gives you twice the life expectancy. We love that.
The Festool multi-purpose table isn't cheap, but it sure will save you time in the shop. In the end, the flexibility and features it offers make it an easy buy for serious woodworkers and anyone serious about cabinetry. Festool multifunction tables are available in two versions. The Festool MFT/3 retails for $749 and offers all of the following features:
- 42″ Rail FS 1080
- additional fixture
- adjustable stop
- CMS Router Table Slant Gauge
- rail deflector
- Support Units
- Rotary unit
Alternatively, you can opt for the MFT/3 Basic version of the table, which does away with all this frills. Retail price is $615. Both versions are covered by Festool's 3-year warranty.
Festool Multifunction Table Specifications
- Model: Festool MFT/3, MFT/3 Basic
- Weight: 61.73 lbs.
- Workpiece Width: 27 inches
- Workpiece Thickness: 3-5/64 inches
- Table Height, Legs Folded: 7 in.
- Table Height, Legs Spread: 35".
- Dimensions: 45 x 30 inches
- Load Capacity: 264.56 lbs.
- Warranty: 3 years
- Price: $735 (MFT/3), $615 (MFT/3 Basic)