Carpentry and Woodworking - Bookcase Shelf Supports

I am building some built in bookcases in the basement and used 3/4 MDF on the sides. I was going to router in the adj metal strips for the shelfs but just decided I didn't like the look. I am going to use the Jig It from Rockwell and use the shelf supports that plug in. My question will that be okay using the MDF. Reality is once the shelfs are in they will probably never move and I am going to put my amp and stereo equipment on the shelves but we wouldn't be talking a lot of weight. I see they sell pin supports for shelves that get moved often but this wouldn't be the case or should I go ahead and use them cause I'm using MDF.

I have used the Jig-It jig you refer to for many years to build cabinets. The shelf pins work fine in MDF. I have some that are loaded near the maximum for the shelf span, and no problems with the stability. I prefer it to the metal strips for appearance, cost, and ease of installation. The plastic pins are fine. I choose the pins based on the color for an application. You can buy them by the bag at the hardware store.

If you plan to use one, consider purchasing a Vix bit or self-centering bit for drilling the holes.

Hope this helps.

MDF is a great stable sub-straight for shelving. It has less of a tendency to bow over time. If the weight is a concern you can always double up the MDF or just add a solid wood face piece 1-1/2" to the 3/4" shelf. Make sure you glue it on. In the professional industry of Custom Furniture Making, we prefer Titebond II