Festool Domino DF 500 Connector System

In this video, I go through all the steps to install the different types of knock down joinery for the Festool Domino DF 500 connectors.
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As always, I welcome your questions and comments!
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[@pf5658]

Great video. I recently bought this system for my 700. Haven’t used it yet so this video was very helpful. Thank you.😊

[@hwdconstruction5058]

Thank you Guy. This is the best video I have watched in regards to this system.

[@GuysShop]

Thanks Dan!

[@zacharysmith3793]

This is a good video explaining and showcasing these connectors. thanks!

[@BigRock804]

Hi Guy: I have seen this product on a email. You did a great demonstration of this product. You made it clear how it works and I liked that very much. Yes, there has been several times that I wished I could have some take-a- part furniture. It is great that people are still coming up with good new ideas for products.

[@watcher9132]

Csbinet Maker you sound like a Festool rep

[@BigRock804]

No. No way. I just like good products, I like the festool dust collector. It is head and shoulders better than my old one. By the way I see you have Blue Tube on yours. How do you like it? Did you add it to your older unit or is it a new unit?

[@GuysShop]

Like I said in the video, it works really well for it's intended purpose.

[@chrisstromberg6527]

That is slick! Thanks for posting.

[@periodcraftsmen]

Guy!! Thank you for a great video. I have been considering them. Now I will buy them for sure!!

[@GuysShop]

Freddy! Thanks for watching and glad you liked the demo.

[@maverik1588]

thank you very much for this excellent demonstration. this will help my choice. Perfect

[@kiwdwks]

Appreciate your video...thanks!

[@doncarrow9660]

Great video thanks for sharing with us

[@mfwoodshop]

Cool system thanks for reviewing this

[@GuysShop]

Thanks Mike!

[@rickchichester9327]

Awesome information

[@billystray7007]

Great for closet systems where oftentimes you HAVE to assemble inside the closet itself

[@MyGrowthRings]

Only if you have the room to assemble the connection. Most closet companies use the Rafix connector because with it the shelf can be dropped in from above or by separating the vertical partitions about 1/4”. With this connector you have to have room to bring the partition into place. Perhaps necessitating a filler strip.

[@fheaney1]

this was very helpful. thanks

[@tomlagatol4448]

Good Vid Guy! This isn’t the first one I’ve seen but it is the best on this subject. Thanks.

[@GuysShop]

Thanks Tom! I aim to please :)

[@FredMcIntyre]

Thanks for the info Guy! 👍👊

[@GuysShop]

Thanks for watching Fred!

[@mihumus]

Nice input Guy, mystery solved 👏👏

[@GuysShop]

Thanks Roman!

[@Plextor1974]

Thank you for the Great Video you make ist very good :) its a Great System

[@stevecollins9450]

Well done instruction video, Guy.

[@GuysShop]

Thanks Steve!

[@TWC6724]

I don't own a domino yet but this looks interesting. How strong would you say these connectors are? Would they wobble over time or is it pretty solid?

[@bertv1205]

Excellent video!

[@GuysShop]

Thanks Bert!

[@sheldonjessup]

Hey guy I appreciate the video I finally got my own domino 500 and I was trying to put a stand together for a fish tank however on the normal 90° angle corner that’s at the beginning of this video I noticed that my vertical piece was about 2 -4mm off of the ground and did not sit flush with the bottom piece could you tell me what the height is that you have the domino set to? I had mine set to 16 mm. thank you

[@scottedwin9615]

Curious as to who makes the work apron you are wearing. Been through several types and just have no found one that is practical and has a good layout to it. Thanks Scott

[@bisarowood]

do you think this system would work well with particle board 3/4 material ? for closet and such

[@ThisTall]

Lamello makes a magnetic threading dowel that’s worth taking a look at. What tiny bit it might lack vs this in strength, it more then makes up for in speed and ease of use.

[@GuysShop]

I've seen those and all the Lamello products. Unfortunately I have never tried them. Would really like to get my hands on a Zeta P and try out there knock down fasteners

[@julioquinonez9569]

gracias por ese aporte de enseñanza amigo , buen video

[@deanaldinger5018]

outstanding video. The connector system is really good, but Festool didn't do the best job with the instructions. Your tutorial is a big help!

[@GuysShop]

The instructions are always vague it seems for everyone.

[@bighands69]

Their instructions is brutal. I have never seen its like before on premium products.

[@dougstead7456]

well that looks cool!

[@GuysShop]

It works really well and does what it is designed to do.

[@kuffyswoodwork]

Hey Guy, great presentation. With regards to the the domino version of the butt joint. The first piece that you inserted into the domino hole which then accepts the pin, what is preventing that piece from being pulled back out? Is the pin expanding the unit taking advantage of a series of serrated type edges? Cheers mate.

[@GuysShop]

Thanks Kuffy. You are correct. When you tighten the post, it expands the anchor into the wood so it won't come out.

[@rpnp2]

If you already have a Domino it's not a bad system.. I went with Lamello years ago and it worked for the rare occasion i needed anything like that.

[@GuysShop]

I have looked at the Lamello Zeta P before. This is such a specialized joint that I couldn't see spending the cash for it. Glad they finally came out with one for the domino.

[@daveerickson5313]

What is the t-track on the edge of your bench that accepts the Festool clamps?

[@dougstead7456]

thank you.

[@Lukas-ik6gt]

Hey Guy thanks for the good introduction in to the new System! By the way what shop apron are you wearing in this video? Greets Lukas

[@GuysShop]

Thanks Lukas! It is from Atlas 46

[@BrianAMoore83]

This is a great video. Would you use this connector system for a hotel bed frame? Who knows what kind of beating a hotel bed experiences?! I have a project building bed frames for a small hotel, and was considering this method.

[@GuysShop]

I would still use bed bolts. Not quite sure if these would be strong enough

[@stuartwelsh5905]

Thanks for the video Guy, you fill a void in the learning curve for this system. I have a question not related to the Connector System but rather what seems to be your table saw extension. It looks like you have made a MFT type extension to your Powermatic, is that the case? if so is it the fence stock or cut off side of the blade? Trying to figure out how I could to that to my stock side with the rails there. Thanks.

[@GuysShop]

Hey Stuart, if you look back in my video library, I did a complete video on the MFT outfeed table and how it's connected to my saw.

[@stuartwelsh5905]

Thanks, I'll check it out. This is the first video of yours I've watched so excuse my ignorance. Looking forward to what you have to teach me!

[@RobyWanKenobi]

Has any used these to connect face frames?

[@Adventuresinwoodltd]

I am trying to decide if the 500 is the best for my work mainly being a stair guy but that round attachment would never get used most of my handrail profiles are larger and have more profile I have spoken with other stair guys and most have the 500 but then wished they had the XL what model would you recommend for the projects you have the most need of a Domino ? Thank You for all the time you take for helping us take bigger steps!

[@GuysShop]

I am not a stair guy, but the ones I have seen that do that type of work use the XL.

[@ianrose2823]

Good video Guy! How do you like the C18 drill ? In the last 5 months , bought the T 18 and the C 18 . They are fantastic !!

[@GuysShop]

So far, it has been a great drill. Love the electronic clutch!

[@Kartvel]

On LR32 option how do you position the side stops for the spacing of the first pin from the bottom or the top of the side boards? The question may sound confusing for people who do not use LR32 but the stops have positions for 9 mm, 16 mm and 32 mm for starting the first hole. Do you use 9 mm?

[@GuysShop]

I am using the 9.5 mm stop. It puts the hole right in the center of 19 mm ply

[@bartloncke9359]

Dear Mr. Guy, this is a very good video. One question though; I have a Lamello Clamex system which is comparable. And I also have a Domino DF 500 power tool, and the LR 32 system. Being the advocate of the Devil; what are the main arguments to buy the connectors compared to clamex P (or S). Are the joints considerably stronger? Would you say the system works quicker? Any input is welcome before I run the the hardware store and buy myself the connectors-box.

[@GuysShop]

Thanks Bart. I wish I could compare the two. I have no personal experience with the Lamello knock down joinery system.

[@bendrixbailey1430]

Guy, I’m building a Murphy bed with my son who is in college. I anticipate he’ll be moving around for a few years after he graduates and may want to disassemble and reassemble the bed several times. I was planning on using pocket screws fully expecting them to stop working well after a few installations. Now I’m thinking of using these connectors. My questions, since you’ve built the identical Murphy bed kit we are using is this, do you think this joining system would be strong enough for the wood frame? Would it hold everything together through a number of setup and take downs? Thanks for the great instructional videos. They are well produced and your instructions are thorough. It’s a huge help.

[@GuysShop]

These are good for cabinetry projects,but I wouldn't use them on a bed. Look into the cross doweliing jig from Woodpeckers. Much betterand stronger option.

[@bendrixbailey1430]

@@GuysShop Guy! So good of you to reply and I think you saved me several thousand dollars in tool and parts. This cross downing jig and parts are just the trick. One more question since the woodpecker site does not have much by way of advice, which size of cross dowel hardware would you recommend? The Murphy bed is made of 3/4 top grade two side maple plywood. Which for that wood. And is there a general rule you’d apply to choose hardware for wood dimensions? Again, thanks. Your instructions are fun to watch and very instructive.

[@kostasshonus6176]

Отлично!

[@GuysShop]

Благодаря!

[@ronh9384]

Good video Guy. Have an upcoming project that these would be perfect for. Can these Festool fittings be fully disassembled from the boards they are in? I know some pieces of the knock down/assembly fasteners for the Festool 700 XL can not be removed. Do you have the part number of the Festool kit you used for the video? Also what brand/model is the apron you were using in the video. Thanks Guy. Ron

[@GuysShop]

Thnaks Ron. The pieces can be removed, but not easily. There is a chance especially of breaking the plastic clips. The apron is from Calavera Tools, and the connector kit is KV-SYS D8

[@ronh9384]

GuysWoodshop ok thanks Guy.

[@jimkohles3647]

I was unaware that there was a 9.5 mm stop for the LR32 system. Was this a special order item from Festool, if not, then does one complete a 9.5 mm spacing using the existing 16mm/ 32mm stop in a special manner. Also, you did a great job of presenting the material. I learned a great deal.

[@GuysShop]

The 9.5mm stop came standard on mine. You might want to take a look at your stops. Thanks for watching and the nice comment!

[@jimkohles3647]

Please forgive me for this question, but I am confused. You were abler to drill the bottom and top holes with the LR 32 system using a 9.5 mm stop that came as a standard part? Or am I really out of touch.

[@GuysShop]

It is standard on the stops for the system kit I have.

[@dougstead7456]

with the df 500 and all these things do you use the powermatic 719t mortiser anymore? and if you didn't have one would still buy one?? thanks, doug

[@GuysShop]

I still use my mortiser quite a bit. It really depends on the task at hand. I don't depend on the domino for everything.

[@daveklein2826]

Different tools for different applications

[@totallynotabot151]

Wish there was a way to rent these for occasional use.

[@superhall229]

All the exposed connectors look great.

[@hurcorh]

I scored a lamello zeta p2 recently for a crazy deal. They make Tenso and clampex connectors among others. Far less obtrusive to these in my opinion.

[@GuysShop]

I did look at those once, but this makes more sense for me since I have the domino already.

[@thoughtlesskills]

Make Your Own Flat Packs!

[@ednaturnbull8564]

Yes the Festool Domino certainly is innovative but has stamped proprietary all over it from their tenons to the tool. If you think using it to make a living, think again! Festool certainly doesn't leave much of a profit after you take out its costs,in today's competitive market. If your thinking using the Domino to manufacture and market knock-down furniture ... good luck trying to compete with IKEA!

[@stumptownwoodworks]

Agree, but the target market for this is custom cabinet makers that have the need for a knock down design in one part of their build because of space or shipping constraints. True production of these at scale should be on cnc only.

[@daveklein2826]

this is not to compete with IKEA

[@hitabo]

I have looked at this quite a lot, but the price is just prohibitive for what you get. Festool tools are expensive and in my opinion worth it. What bothers me is that even after you buy into the system you pay a steep, steep premium for component parts like these. It makes one feel a little taken advantage of. Great video though. Really enjoyed it.

[@GuysShop]

I agree with most of what you stated. It is a good system, and there is a cost involved. But the choices for RTA connectors is pretty limited, and wanted to give this option a look.

[@bighands69]

+happyhappyjoyjoy9999 Festool are a small company and for them to develop accessories costs a lot of money. It may only seem like a little bit of plastic to you but to them it requires designers, fabricators and then production schedules. And then they have to try and make profits with their production. All that innovation costs money because it has to be designed, tested and then put to market. All it takes is for them to release a product that sucks time and resources out of another product and then all of a sudden they have got the market wrong. Mafell is the same and this applies to other small companies out there.

[@watcher9132]

This is just a way to put things together like discount furniture store junk.

[@GuysShop]

This is very a viable connector for flat packing of small projects and other projects that require a Ready to Assemble (RTA) joint.

[@bighands69]

+Gene New Discount furniture does not make custom cabinets that can be fitted on site by a craftsman. Cabinets can cost many thousands.

[@daveklein2826]

WOW you totally missed the point

[@MichaelDavis-cv6rr]

I find it odd that Makita or Hitachi haven't made their own version of the the df 500...one machine that could use the small cutters of both the 500 and the 700 for about $ 700.00 u.s. it would sell like hotcakes

[@S7tronic]

There will not be a comparable system (though the Lamello Clamex looks just as good if not better) to the domino until the patent held by Festool runs out. I think it will be similar to the Oscillating multi-tool designed originally by Fein, patent ran out & now you can buy a similar tool from Bosch, DeWalt etc.

[@SteifWood]

IKEA on steroids,,, want :)

[@GuysShop]

HaHa.

[@victorcharlie9548]

What is the kit no.?

[@chris15325]

Cool, but HAAAAASSLE!! I say rafix and outsource to CNC and construction drill

[@GuysShop]

Yeah, I get it. However this is a good solution for a one man shop.

[@bighands69]

+Hope For all If you go CNC you are going to still need the domino and the CNC is going to cost a lot more than the accessories that Festool sell.

[@madhungarian3024]

Oh why did you have to go and push that little green button on your CT Vac hose? Now i've got to go out and buy one of those little green buttons too! And it's all your fault!

[@madhungarian3024]

And the little green button is only $80 too. Which in the Fe$tool alternate reality is actually pretty cheap for a little green button.

[@ThekiBoran]

@@madhungarian3024 I bought one. It's great when vacuuming your car or cleaning the shop floor.

[@GtsAntoni1]

So Festool made an incredibly overpriced IKEA set? Hopefully someone with sensible pricing will jump in with a similar system, as it really is very clever.

[@daveklein2826]

Seeing as you ignorant... You will never understand

[@GtsAntoni1]

@@daveklein2826 Why don't you enlighten me, considering you're evidently so much cleverer?

[@ckent1975fm]

They GOTCHA! Connectors are cost prohibitive! Cant wait for their patents to expire!

[@bighands69]

+ckent1975fm You will be waiting a very long time for that. Dewalt if they wanted to could easily produce innovative tools that do similar types of joints. They they have not done so. Neither has Makita or Bosch.

[@daveklein2826]

LMAO

[@ThisTall]

It is a shame that it’s so uncommon for ppl to be willing to save up for nice things anymore, especially tools. That the cheap obsolescence engineering into everyday things and the fake need to own 200 things instead of a few nice things are so common that it’s almost impossible to convince them that this Festool stuff is absolutely not “too” expensive or overpriced, it’s priced exactly right.

[@GuysShop]

Agreed. If you want quality, it always comes at a cost.

[@ThekiBoran]

Festool USA refused to repair my kapex and couldn't/didn't repair my OF1400. I sold my kapex and bought a Makita LS1219L and I was forced to repair my OF1400 router myself. The router bit wasn't centered in the guide bushing plate and unlike every other manufacturer's router, it isn't a simple adjustment to get it centered. I had to grind away part of the guide bushing plate in order to get it centered. Festool had it at their facility and couldn't fix it. Not every product Festool sells is a quality product. They do sell lemons and then will refuse to fix or replace. Potential customers should be warned that Festool might or might not perform needed repairs after the 30-day trial period.

[@bighands69]

@@ThekiBoran I suspect that you are have somehow affected your guarantee with Festool. I would guess you did something that was not recommended. I have only ever had one problem with a festool tool and it was replaced without question.

[@ThekiBoran]

@@bighands69 What Festool recommended was that I use my router in a jacked up condition. Have a look. kzbin.info/www/bejne/iYXYeaZmf7iEqq8 P.S. The warranty was not affected by my modification. I simply would buy a new guide bushing plate and they would never know I made a modification. Besides, if they voided the warranty for such a simple modification what does that say about Festool service?

[@daveklein2826]

I am calling you a LIAR

[@davecurda2350]

What is a 36 mm domino or do you mean 8x30mm

[@GuysShop]

Nope, you heard correct. The kit comes with 8x36mm dominos. They are a little shorter for when the double butt joint comes into play so the don't hit each other inside the vertical piece.

[@marks6663]

I hope IKEA does not see this. They might steal the idea and come up with something cheaper, simpler, and faster.

[@daveklein2826]

and as with all IKEA products it will be crap

[@chris15325]

Seems slow and error prone

[@daveklein2826]

No, that's just you