I was pretty skeptical when I got mine as it seemed like big bucks for modest functionality, but for some reason I pulled the trigger anyway. I do like it for all the reasons cited in the video. I don't like the real estate that it takes up, but of all the available options, it's got the best design.
I bought four boxes of CT36 bags when I bought my CT36, before I got the cyclone. I figured for my use then, it was at least a 5 year supply, maybe more. But... I was just using the CT36 connected to a domino and some sanders. I think it took me nearly six months to fill the first bag. Then I got a couple of routers and a track saw. The first bag with the routers filled in about a month. That's how I talked myself into the cyclone. Once I got the cyclone, I started using it for general shop cleanup as well - including both hand tools (I can make a big mess fast with a plane), power tools like my drill press, and so on. Now in a month where I'm spending a fair amount of time in the shop I fill the cyclone a couple of times. In addition to saving bags, the cyclone gave me more clean-up options and efficiency as well. I figure it should pay for itself in 2-4 years in terms of bags, but less than that if you count the added flexibility. Obviously someone who is using their dust extractor professionally will see a much faster payback. On the other hand, I still have most of three boxes of bags left, so probably a lifetime supply (maybe two) now that I have the cyclone.
I do have a couple of questions for those of you using the cyclone.
1. How does cyclone use affect the filter? When I sand, a lot of fine dust ends up in the cyclone. That surprised me a bit, as I expected the small stuff to get sucked right through. The filter looks about the same as it did when I started using the cyclone. If you use the cyclone, do you find that filters last longer because less really small stuff gets through?
2. I used a clear bag with with cyclone for the first couple of times I filled it up, but it seemed like it just got in the way and made emptying more awkward. Since then I've been using it without the bag, and the only downside I can see is that the clear container gets a little dusty - not a big deal. I'm not trashing the sawdust, so I don't need to bag it for that. I just dump the dust in the back yard. That's what I do with the dust from my big collector too. I figure I'm adding organic matter to the soil.
3. For emptying, how full is full? I generally end up emptying it when one side creeps up near the top of the container.
4. Finally, I missed the thread on the latch option when it happened. It's now for sale for $30. Why would I want it?
