I can't decide!...

[Riparian]

Ok, so Santa has given me the go-ahead to buy either the LS-130 or the Parallel Guide Set.
I have a CT-22, a TS-55, and an ETS 150/3.

Hand sanding isn't my favorite activity, so the LS-130 seems really attractive. On the other hand,
the precision the Parallel Guides seem to offer is also very attractive...

For me, woodworking is a hobby. Typically, my projects are things like cabinets, bookcases, tables,
etc.

Given all this, what would you do? (no, buying both won't quite work!)

-Andy

 

[mishle]

For me it would be the Parallel Guide Set. Repetitive accuracy Would be really nice. But only you can make that decision.

 

[PeterK]

I say neither.  [eek]
Get the OF1010 router instead!!!!!  [thumbs up] [thumbs up]
If you don't have a Festool router, this is a fantastic one at a great price.

 

[d8b]

If I have to make the same descisin right now, I would go for the sander. It all depends on the word you do.

The parallel guides really shine when you have to make a LOT of repeated cuts, as a hobby woodworker, I rarely make a lot of repeated cuts. If all your dimensions are different, you have to adjust the guides for every cut, and it is just quicker to lay your rail on a pencil mark. If you make a lot of cabinets OTOH, the guides are just your thing. So as usual, the answer is ... it depends.

greetz,

Philippe

 

[honeydoman]

I would also go with the sander or a router. The parrell guides are great but as said you would be adjusting them a lot and I feel they are designed for someone like me  well professionals or someone who does a lot of sheet goods knock down

So if that is your choices than the sander. No drill?

Do you have a router?  Cuz you can make awesome details with one and fluting. About the same money

 

[davee]

I agree that the answer has to be "it depends", that is on what you do and want.

However, I think the parallel guides are well worth while even for a non-professional due to the accuracy.  A couple of years ago I completed a new kitchen (33 cabinets, etc.) without the parallel guides using the TS-55.  However, I've since made a number of cabinets, shelves, etc with the parallel guides and really appreciate them.  The setup for different dimensions takes seconds and isn't to big a deal. 

Good luck on your decision, although it is likely only a matter of time that you will have both!!

 

[Wood_Junkie]

Don’t believe them!  The router is not the same cost!  Because very soon you will want the edge guide, the rail guide adapter, then you need router bits, and of course that can spiral (pun!) off the charts. 

If your projects are primarily sheet goods, and you are making at least 3-4 identical width pieces each time, then the parallel guides are good.  Otherwise I agree with j8b and kreg, they aren’t so useful for one-off  parts.

The LS130 is an interesting tool, but IMO it has a very narrow niche that won’t help you much with the projects you listed.  Unless you’re doing fancy edge treatments that you then want to sand the profiles for.
If you’re thinking of the LS130 to get into corners and do edges, I’d suggest the DTS or RTS are a better choice overall.  They orbit so you’ll get a better result in corners, etc.  The LS130 does OK there, but not as well.

Based on the projects you listed, I’d suggest you look at the RS2E sander.  It’s the same cost as the LS130, but will probably be of more value for the larger, flat panel type uses.  I don’t personally have one, but everyone that posts reviews and such say it’s just the ticket for sanding large, flat work.

If you can boost or save for the extra, I’d say an MFT would be the ideal addition to your shop.  It makes everything work better.  Again, what out for those accessories’ costs.

 

[nickao]

I agree. The LS 130 is great, but I have  used mine once since I got it, the reason I am selling it. The back and forth stroke is nice for only a small amount of work.

I would get a different sander. A Rotex if you can squeeze out the extra. The DTS or RTS may help you more.

 

[Jesse Cloud]

Good advice above.  The LS 130 is a Linear Sander, not random orbit like the RTS.  The applications are pretty narrow, basically where a circular patter would screw up a linear detail or where an orbital sander just won't fit.  You can reshape the detachable plastic base to fit a molding pattern.  I use mine to fit into the inside of coopered panels (with a rounded base on the sander).

I'm a hobbyist with parallel guides.  I have great fun using them, but to tell the truth they aren't really earning their keep.

If you don't have a router, definitely think about the 1010 or the 1400, and yes - it is a slippery slope.

 

[AlexThePalex]

I agree with the others about the LS130 sander. Get the DTS400 instead, it will give you a lot more use and fun.

 

[tbellemare]

I guess I use my LS 130 more than the average bear. I think it's a roundover's best friend. I have a customer that uses one to create brushed aluminum finishes also.

How do those of you who have one and don't use it sand roundovers?

Tom

 

[nickao]

My round overs never need sanding. What router bit are you using that it leaves the wood needing the sanding from a power tool?

Unless I am  getting old wood ready for finish's I do not see much round over getting sanded for me. I think a stair guy and renovator(as opposed to new items) gets the most use out of the LS for various operations.

 

[Wood_Junkie]

Same here, I don't find routed edges usually need finish sanding.

I put 4-5 layers of masking tape on the router table fence, or the workpiece when doing the main profile routing.
Then remove all that tape and make a final pass.  Takes off about 1/64" and generally leaves a lovely clean surface.

 

[GPowers]

If you are breaking down sheet good the  Parallel Guide Set are a must.

The main reason I started buying Festool products was to break down large sheet goods.

 

[tbellemare]

I guess I'm too anal. I have always wanted every surface to have the exact same treatment before applying a finish.

You guys may have just saved me some work... I'll have to experiment and maybe change my ways.

Tom

 

[AdamM]

Keep in mind there are also some good home-brew Parallel Guide alternatives.  Search the forum to find some examples.

 

[Mavrik]

Get the 1010 router. You will not regret it. I LOVE that tool ...

 

[ghostofhoward]

I say neither.   [eek]
Get the OF1010 router instead!!!!!   [thumbs up] [thumbs up]
If you don't have a Festool router, this is a fantastic one at a great price.

                              I would second this idea.Awesome tool!!

 

[grobin]

I assume that you are talking the parallel guides and extensions.  By far the best for breaking down sheet goods.  So if you do closed carcse out of ply I would be inclined to get them.  After all a $30 DeWalt sander works just fine for finishing.  Not as fast or flexible as a Festool but only about 1/10th the cost and consumables are cheaper.

If you are joning boards or doing open frame then I would look at a domino or 1400 router.  The 1010 is nice but my $200 Bosch Colt does everything that it does; the 1400 does a lot more.