StewMac TrueChannel Binding Router Jig

TrueChannel Binding Router Jig

Cut perfectly squared binding ledges on any instrument—including archtops.

The TrueChannel jig turns your laminate router into a floating cutter. As you move the body of the instrument into the cutter, your router glides vertically to follow the body's top edge. Bindings fit correctly, so you won't have to scrape them too thin.

The problem: The arch of the guitar top, and especially the back, will change the router alignment. Without the TrueChannel, a standard router base will tilt, causing the routed channel to be too deep or too shallow; the bindings won't fit right. TrueChannel keeps the router vertical for a square ledge. Bindings fit correctly.

Includes

• Rock-steady aluminum router support post with carriage
• Sliding support brackets (4), adjustable for body shapes and heights
• Instructions

Some TrueChannel components are also sold separately.

Make your own body cradle: This set does not include a plywood Body Cradle, so you can build your own custom shape.

The jig carriage fits the popular Bosch Colt Router. An inexpensive Router Mounting Template lets you use other common laminate trimmers, too.

Our thanks to luthier Tom Ribbecke, who inspired this jig.