I goofed and neglected to cut out a recess in a rail of a frame-and-panel blanket chest for a piano hinge (Lee Valley pressed brass 1.5" x 36") before assembly. I realize it this evening when I turned my attention to the top and sanded the chest a final time before finishing. With the chest glued up, it is not as simple a process when the parts were free. It's heavy! The width of the chest is 48". The hinge is 36". My options:
1. Use my router. This conjures up instance of router tipping on a 3/4" edge. Although I would have to make some kind of jig to support the router.
2. Use my table saw and plunge the rail down on a spinning blade. Not a very safe option either.
3. Hand tools, but I only have a block plane that needs some serious sharpening.
4. Mortise the top. I would prefer not to do this.
I am seeking advice. How would you approach this?
Thanks!