I understand the Powermatic (719A?) mortiser is a beefy machine that is very
easy to use. No question there. My question is whether this mortiser makes
the actual cutting of the mortise easier and if so why? So, after setting
up the board and the machines are turned on and the handle is pulled, is
there a difference in the cutting? I know the Powermatic has a bigger
motor, but the actual cutting consists of two parts; one part is to cut the
round hole with the bit and the second part is with the chisel. I would
think that even the Jet/Delta mortiser would be able to cut the round hole
just as easily as the Powermatic. If this assumption is true then it comes
down to the cutting of the square sides with the chisel. Since this is all
done with human power, why would the Powermatic be any easier to cut? Is it
any easier? Maybe my assumption about the JET/Delta being able to drill the
round hole just as easily is wrong? I assume the Powermatic must be easier
to cut with since you can even go up to a 1" mortise. For an extra $500 I
expect the Powermatic should both be easier to set up (which it is) and
easier to cut (which I'm asking).

I'd like to hear from any of you that have used a benchtop mortiser AND the
Powermatic. I appreciate all of you probably love the tool you bought so I
don't need to hear that you love your JET but have never used the
Powermatic, or that you love your Delta but have never used the Powermatic,
or ...

Thanks in advance!!
--
Larry C in Auburn, WA