Thanks to everyone for their comments.

As R pointed out I did not completely describe the intended end result - which is for the
bottom of the vertical piece to be flush with the bottom of the bottom piece.

The model is light - so joint strength is not a concern.

Also neglected to mention the power tools available are a 10" stationary radial arm saw
and a table mounted router.

Will try the spline joint on some scrap pieces, as that will provide the desired result
and is likely within my range of capability.

Again - thanks to all for the benefit of your experience.

May also try full blind dovetails on scrap pieces - just to see if I can do it.

Regards,

Doug

RicodJour wrote:



It's not entirely clear from your description whether the vertical
piece sits on top of the base, or if the bottom of the vertical piece
is flush with the bottom of the bottom piece. The bottom of the base
is hidden, right? For the first situation, you could of course just
screw up through the bottom piece, but that's pretty obvious, so it's
either not that configuration of you have some reason not to use
screws. If it's the second situation you could use pocket screws.
Hidden, strong and simple as can be.

Be aware that "strong as can be" might equate to "not strong enough"
if you have a very heavy model. Anything under five pounds should be
no problem at all.

R