Carvex differences (corded models)?

[RC]

I was browsing through the Festool website and noticed that the non-barrel grip (the one with a handle) corded model has a broader RPM selection (1000-3800 vs. 1500-3800) than the other three Carvex models.

Does anyone have experience would this 500 RPM difference at the slow end be of any noticeable difference?

Another question for the handle version users would be the operation mode of the handle power switch - is it an on/off switch or does it operate like the Festool drill switches in a linear RPM increase mode?

 

[Kev]

I can't answer the question you ask, but I can say that I held the barrel and handle versions at the time of buying. I found the handle so uncomfortably thin that I ignored it as an option.

It really surprised me considering how well Festool normally do with their ergonomics.

 

[RC]

I've always equated a barrel grip with more precision cutting with a jigsaw and the handle grip for broader chopping up of sheet goods, etc. I just noted that in the Festool product video the fellow was using a handle versio upside down holding it pretty much just like I would hold a barrel grip one.

I'm more of a barrel person myself since I'm so used to my barrel grip Makita - just wondering should I rethink my jigsaw handle type preference if there are real technical differences like possibly an trigger adjustable running speed or a lower running speed setting (and not a typo on both the UK & DE sites  [tongue])

 

[Kev]

Aussie site echoes the same specs as you're finding elsewhere ... I think it's work escalating the question!

Thinking about the additional trigger - I'd be very surprised if it offers variable speed control ... unless it was variable up to the setting on the rotary dial.

 

[Davej]

I have a corded top handle carvex and the top switch is variable speed but wont go past your `dialled in ` speed . the side switches are the same as the barrel type but designed for cutting upside down so you hold it by the body and works very well . the difference in low end speed doesnt really make any difference i only use it for cutting acrylic sheet so it doesnt overheat and fuse back together behind the blade but its still fine at 1000 . hope this helps .

 

[RC]

Thanks Dave,

that's good to know that what Kev thought might be the case is the case  [smile]

 

[Davej]

Happy to help  [smile]

 

[RC]

Just got back from the Festool showroom and having given both corded and the barrel cordless model a run I still think that the corded barrel one is the most logical option. Yes the handle model has a nice switch with variable speed control, but the handle is so high up that it felt uncomfortable on a MFT table to use and its so small that you can't use it like a barrel handle one right way round - only inverted.

Also had a look at the CMS-PS insert and it does enable easy cutting of curves with a little dust collecting on the top of the work piece. Couldn't try if resawing would be plausible nor did the sales person have any experience to share about using the MFT angle guide on the CMS.

 

[Mauri Motti]

PS: non barrel grip = D handle