User Manual

Powermatic 701 Benchtop Mortiser
The design criteria for the (#1791310) Powermatic 701
Benchtop Mortiser was very clear – accuracy, durability and
user-friendly operation. The design process was further guided
by a list of the features and concerns frequently expressed by
woodworkers. The result is the groundbreaking Powermatic 701
Benchtop Mortiser you see here.
Accuracy and durability are based on oversized iron castings
that form the base, column, head and fence. These crucial
pieces are precisely cast and machined to create a super-stable
platform that supports an industry-leading array of features.
This foundation also means that the Powermatic 701 Benchtop
Mortiser will be a cherished tool for generations.
Oversized, precision castings
Insure a long, accurate life.
The interaction between the head and column is precisely controlled by a Gibb screw system
that eliminates deflection at the bit while insuring
smooth movement of the head. From the quick initial
setup to fine tuning many years from now, this easy to
adjust Gibb screw system means your Powermatic 701
Benchtop Mortiser will always perform smoothly and
accurately.
Moving the operating arm from the right
To left sides is simple and tool free.
The plunge action of the head is driven by a true rack
and pinion gear system, operated by a large, 23“-long,
solid steel arm. Effort is drastically reduced which means
mortising in the toughest of woods with the precision
you need has never been easier.
To make the Powermatic 701 Benchtop Mortiser equally comfortable for left and right-
handed operators, the lever arm can be mounted on the left or right side of the head by
simply removing a finger-operated knob and moving the
assembly to an identical spline on the other side. Both splines
have ten positions so the lever arm can be quickly located for
the best range of motion.
Despite the 5” total plunge capacity with the Powermatic 701
Benchtop Mortiser in standard configuration and the optional 2”
riser block (#1791312), we wanted to be sure that it could
handle oversize jobs. To mortise very large pieces, the entire
column and head of the Powermatic 701 Benchtop Mortiser can
be turned 90-degrees (the table must be securely fastened) to
work off of the table.
Mounting the depth stop directly
In the line of force prevents
deflection of the bit.
Most mortisers have their depth stop located to the side or ahead of the line of force where
it can induce racking of the head and deflection of the bit. That deflection drastically
increases lateral friction on the bit and compromises accuracy. To eliminate this problem,
we put the Powermatic 701 Benchtop Mortiser depth stop on the column, directly on the line
of force.