Underpinner Monopoly

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KPF

KPF

CGF, Certified Grumble Framer
Joined
Oct 24, 2010
Posts
162
Loc
Vancouver, BC, Canada
I'm searching for a new underpinner. I've been using a Cassese 299MXL for the past 15 years and Cassese in general for 30 years.
It seems the only option is AMP, A+ Automation and Pilm. Now that AMP has bought A+ in Italy, and all machines will be rebranded as AMP, what other choices are there?

I came close to ordering an AMP U400 but noticed the fence doesn't have an adjustable 90+/- dial. The adjustable dial available to purchase from AMP isn't compatible with the U400.
Why not offer it as an upgrade?
 
That is interesting, and a bit scary to learn that the underpinner market is getting smaller.

I have only ever used AMP V-Nailers, so I don't have any suggestions about possible other machines in the same category.
I have never seen a method to change the angle of the corner by a small increment. We do have a Vice from 888 that allows for altering to common other corner geometries.

We do also use a Hoffman Dovetail Joining Machine (Bowtie). Very useful for tall frames, and floater frames, but not my go to device.
 
I have used many AMP over the years and then for the last 10 years I've used the Cassese 299.
I always liked the AMP, Mitre Mites but now I like the Cassese.
We have 2 of the 299's at work and we have an AMP as an emergency backup.

I've still been able to get parts for the 299 from Underpinner Spares.
Luckily we have tons of original Cassese v-nail cartridges in all sizes.:cool:
 
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The contraction of the number of equipment manufacturers is not surprising. Take a look at the shrinking of the number of materials manufacturers/distributors and the number of actual picture framing shops. The industry that once had around 24,000 independent picture frame shops, now has about 6,000 in North America, a 75% decline. Compared to the rest of an economy the custom picture framing industry is too small to identify from all "home decor goods".
 
JFeig said:
The industry that once had around 24,000 independent picture frame shops, now has about 6,000 in North America, a 75% decline. Compared to the rest of an economy the custom picture framing industry is too small to identify from all "home decor goods".
Click to expand...
In fact, even when there were 24,000 indies, picture framing was not large enough to be noticed as a separate "industry".
 
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