Hi!
I'm building a new dining table and I'm wondering if anyone has opinions about preferred method of table alignment.

The three options I'm considering are:


  • Metal pins (like these from Lee Valley)
    Seem nice, are these "just better" than wood/plastic pegs?
  • Wood or plastic pegs (like these from Rockler)
    Every table I've ever seen uses these - so probably not BAD.
  • Undermount metal alignment clips (like these from Rockler)
    Seem very secure, easy to install, probably good at pulling warped leaves into alignment, might be annoying under the table and some of the reviews suggest they can be difficult to separate (which might be a plus?)

The table is going to be a nice grade of 3/4" baltic birch furniture ply with a plastic laminate (formica) top and 4 steel hairpin legs (going for a sleek MCM look). Probably going to make 3 12" leaves to go in the middle. I think my biggest concern is probably controlling warping and ensuring that the table halves and leaves are all pulled into alignment when the table is pushed together. I feel comfortable installing any of the above-listed choices, if I go pins/pegs I'll probably make a drilling jig with drill bushings to get all the holes properly aligned.

I'll probably be using the rockler steel extension slides under the table.

Why should I choose one method over another? Anyone have experience with the metal pins or the undermounted clips?

Thanks!