HK55 vs HK85

[chappardababbar]

I have the HK55 and i'm in love with it, but wondering if i should sell and get an HK85. I'm about to undertake a project where the additional depth will be useful and I think if I get the 85, the 55 becomes redundant.

I'm a hobbyist, will probably use it 4-5 times a year. Why would anyone bother with the HK55 when the 85 gives you the additional depth, plus groove ability?

Just checking in case i've missed anything before i stick my HK55 on ebay.

 

[Tom the Remodeler]

The rule of thumb on most job sites is to use the smallest tool that adequately performs the task. If we all used saws that did "everything" we'd all be running around with 16" circular saws in our vans.

The HK-55, KSS-400, and KSS-60 are optimized for standard stick framing lumber and Millwork. The KSS-300 is optimized for flooring and Millwork. The HK-85 and the KSS-80 are optimized for thicker materials (think deck builders and timber framing).

In the same way, the TS-55 is optimized for sheet goods and 1x materials, whereas the TS-75 is better suited to thicker, denser materials.

 

[Coen]

Why would anyone bother with the HK55 when the 85 gives you the additional depth, plus groove ability?

Why would anyone bother with the weight and size of the HK85 if you can do the cut with the HK55?

But as a hobbyist, it's ofcourse hard to justify buying both.

 

[chappardababbar]

I just realised the HK85 is wired. HKC55, which i have is cordless. I didn't realise this.

Will hang on to the HKC55, the cordless feature makes all the difference!

 

[rst]

What!! you mean I should have a "reason" to want one??  What's with that?    [eek]

 

[Michael Kellough]

I just realised the HK85 is wired. HKC55, which i have is cordless. I didn't realise this.

Will hang on to the HKC55, the cordless feature makes all the difference!

Milwaukee just introduced a 9" cordless SCMS along with a 9Ah battery that they claim is good for "400 cuts". By itself, the battery lists for $200.

So, it's possible there may be an HKC85 someday.

 

[Grakat]

I would go the HK85 over the TS75 for ripping down big pieces of hardwood. The extra grunt of the HK would help in this regard.