Castle updates its benchtop screw pocket machine

Castle Inc. recently launched the TSM-11 benchtop screw pocket machine, an improved version of the company’s TSM-10 model that was licensed to Porter-Cable (model 552) for the last 10 years. The machine, which produces a low screw angle at six degrees to minimize joint shift, features an increased throat depth to allow access for thicker wood.

“This machine addresses the need of the current economy, where people are looking to upgrade from hand-jigs to a more semi-automatic quick process of doing pockets, and it sells for about a third of our basic model,” says Castle president Anthony Lynn.

The bench-top machine is designed for cutting pocket screw holes in cabinetry and furniture, made from high-pressure laminate, particle board, MDF, melamine and solid wood from a 1/2" through 1-1/2” thick. It sells for $899, compared to Castle pneumatically-operated model that costs about $3,000.

The machine can be plugged into a standard outlet. It uses a Porter-Cable 1-3/4 hp router (model 6902) to route the pockets and laminate trimmer (model 7301) to drill the pilot holes. The machine weighs 59 lbs. and the necessary tooling is included.

Contact: Castle Inc. Tel: 800-282-8338. www.castleusa.com

— Jennifer Hicks