Looking for help upgrading my workshop.

[Jdb123]

I’m a year or so into my woodworking habit, and I’ve been getting frustrated with my tools...thinking it’s they’re fault I’m so slow at making each piece   I have a selection of “starter” tools and have been investigating upgrades, which of course brings me here...

Would appreciate any counsel those with more expertise here (everyone?) can offer on my selection, given my constraints.

First, the constraints. 

1. I don’t really have a proper shop space, so I bring my tools outside every time I use them.  Luckily, I live in California, so that’s not a huge constraint, but it means portability (at least a few feet) is important to me.  I do have reasonable storage space, but sawdust/noise in the garage doesn’t go over well in my house.

2. Also, I tend to only get small blocks of time in which to work, so speed/ease of setup is important to me.  If it takes me an hour to get set, I lose most of my time. 

In terms of what I’m doing with the tools, right now, it’s mostly furniture - I’ve made some outdoor chairs and tables and trying to move to more complex stuff in the same realm.

With those constraints and goals in mind, I’m thinking about the following:

CT SYS / CT Mini - I don’t have an extraction system at all, so something in this category seems essential.

MFT/3 - Still amazed by the cost of this, but if this meets the expectations set here, seems like a no brainer.

HKC 55 EB 18v + FSK 420 - Seems like the latest and greatest option consistent with my needs, but not sure if I should be looking harder at the TS models instead.  Regardless, my most frustrating issue right now is getting consistently straight cuts, and I’m hoping this with the MFT/3 will take care of that issue.

Carvex PSC EB 18v - current jig saw is frustrating, so this seems like a good step up, but worth the premium vs other brands in this category?

ETS 125 REQ - don’t have anything in this category. This seems low power compared to others, but sufficient for my needs. Why no battery power in this category?

SYS Roll - any views on how this system works from those working with it?  Seems like it will speed things up for me in setup/cleanup.

Thinking I’ll live with what I’ve got in other categories (miter, drill, router, etc.) unless I’m missing something essential. 

Would appreciate any thoughts or ideas the community may have!  Thanks all,

Jonas.

 

[ScotF]

I think if you are getting started, an extractor, MFT and TS saw make lots of sense. I personally like the cordless TSC55 and it works great with the MFT. I would opt for that for furniture over an HK saw - especially if you will use sheet goods for some projects. I would opt for a TS75 if doing lots of thicker hardwoods.

For the extractor, consider a 26 or 36 for more capacity and ability to use other accessories later like the Boom Arm. Footprint is about the same as a midi (mini is less). Suction is the same for all. If you combine two tools you can save 10% off the MFT and the extractor.

Sander - I would opt for one of the ETS EC sanders or Rotex - either 125 or 150. Choose a size that you are comfortable with and go for it. I like them all and the size depends on what I am doing. Do not overlook the need for a Delta sander for corners - so the RO90 and DTS are the two options on that front. Personally I would opt for a Rotex as my first sander since it is so versatile and can be used to aggressively sand for fast stock removal and also random orbit for fine finishing all in one tool. You can get cordless Delta DTS, RTS and the ETS finish sander now so that might be an option if you need to work without an extension cord.

Jigsaws - many like the Carvex. I owned one for years and sold it - but I might get a cordless just because that would be very handy. The Trion is also a very good saw, but not cordless.

Don't forget about accessories and consumables - that can add to the overall cost. Also, take advantage of the 30 day trial, but that only applies to the tool and what it comes with - no accessories or consumables.

 

[Jdb123]

I think if you are getting started, an extractor, MFT and TS saw make lots of sense. I personally like the cordless TSC55 and it works great with the MFT. I would opt for that for furniture over an HK saw - especially if you will use sheet goods for some projects. I would opt for a TS75 if doing lots of thicker hardwoods.

For the extractor, consider a 26 or 36 for more capacity and ability to use other accessories later like the Boom Arm. Footprint is about the same as a midi (mini is less). Suction is the same for all. If you combine two tools you can save 10% off the MFT and the extractor.

Sander - I would opt for one of the ETS EC sanders or Rotex - either 125 or 150. Choose a size that you are comfortable with and go for it. I like them all and the size depends on what I am doing. Do not overlook the need for a Delta sander for corners - so the RO90 and DTS are the two options on that front. Personally I would opt for a Rotex as my first sander since it is so versatile and can be used to aggressively sand for fast stock removal and also random orbit for fine finishing all in one tool. You can get cordless Delta DTS, RTS and the ETS finish sander now so that might be an option if you need to work without an extension cord.

Jigsaws - many like the Carvex. I owned one for years and sold it - but I might get a cordless just because that would be very handy. The Trion is also a very good saw, but not cordless.

Don't forget about accessories and consumables - that can add to the overall cost. Also, take advantage of the 30 day trial, but that only applies to the tool and what it comes with - no accessories or consumables.

Thanks so much for the thoughtful response!

If I may... why do you think the TS is better than an HK?  I really can’t figure that one out.

Very good tips on the other categories - much appreciated.  Will have to think hard on the extractor in particular.  Even though I know it’s probably right to upsize, I struggle to think of spending $700 or $800 on that category. That said, if it’s that good, maybe I can work inside and buy myself some more time.

Good note on consumables too...those always seems to surprise me as they add up...

 

[Holmz]

I think if you are getting started, an extractor, MFT and TS saw make lots of sense. I personally like the cordless TSC55 and it works great with the MFT. I would opt for that for furniture over an HK saw - especially if you will use sheet goods for some projects. I would opt for a TS75 if doing lots of thicker hardwoods.

For the extractor, consider a 26 or 36 for more capacity and ability to use other accessories later like the Boom Arm. Footprint is about the same as a midi (mini is less). Suction is the same for all. If you combine two tools you can save 10% off the MFT and the extractor.

Sander - I would opt for one of the ETS EC sanders or Rotex - either 125 or 150. Choose a size that you are comfortable with and go for it. I like them all and the size depends on what I am doing. Do not overlook the need for a Delta sander for corners - so the RO90 and DTS are the two options on that front. Personally I would opt for a Rotex as my first sander since it is so versatile and can be used to aggressively sand for fast stock removal and also random orbit for fine finishing all in one tool. You can get cordless Delta DTS, RTS and the ETS finish sander now so that might be an option if you need to work without an extension cord.

Jigsaws - many like the Carvex. I owned one for years and sold it - but I might get a cordless just because that would be very handy. The Trion is also a very good saw, but not cordless.

Don't forget about accessories and consumables - that can add to the overall cost. Also, take advantage of the 30 day trial, but that only applies to the tool and what it comes with - no accessories or consumables.

[member=6605]ScotF[/member] that last post of your's in [member=66538]Vangor[/member] thread yesterday was sage advice too.
The OP may also want to visit that thread.

I totally concur with your recommendation on the MFT+track saw combo. An MFT is made to hold a rail.
Any sheet work results in straight with a track saw.
An HKC could be great for a deck?

Two nice sanders are the Mirka DEROS (6"5-mm) and the Festool ETS/EC either 125/3-mm or the 150/5-mm. I have the former, and the later is about the same in Festool colors. Both of these have about 2x the power of the ETS (non-EC) model, and are in a different league.

Bosch makes some nice jig saws. If cost is no option then there is always the undisputed king...  [cool]
If you really use a jig saw a lot, and opt for the best, then that could change what rails system want to use, and that percolates back up to the tracksaw. But a band saw may be a wiser thing to eventually get?

There is a video of a vacuum shoot out and Milwaukee and Makita were both scoring high. I think the Milwaukee was a rebadged Starmix. The video was posted with in the last week - I think by me??

There are some woodcraft stores in SoCal, and Anderson plywood is up in Santa Monica or Venice. There has to be other shops around too.

 

[Jdb123]

I think if you are getting started, an extractor, MFT and TS saw make lots of sense. I personally like the cordless TSC55 and it works great with the MFT. I would opt for that for furniture over an HK saw - especially if you will use sheet goods for some projects. I would opt for a TS75 if doing lots of thicker hardwoods.

For the extractor, consider a 26 or 36 for more capacity and ability to use other accessories later like the Boom Arm. Footprint is about the same as a midi (mini is less). Suction is the same for all. If you combine two tools you can save 10% off the MFT and the extractor.

Sander - I would opt for one of the ETS EC sanders or Rotex - either 125 or 150. Choose a size that you are comfortable with and go for it. I like them all and the size depends on what I am doing. Do not overlook the need for a Delta sander for corners - so the RO90 and DTS are the two options on that front. Personally I would opt for a Rotex as my first sander since it is so versatile and can be used to aggressively sand for fast stock removal and also random orbit for fine finishing all in one tool. You can get cordless Delta DTS, RTS and the ETS finish sander now so that might be an option if you need to work without an extension cord.

Jigsaws - many like the Carvex. I owned one for years and sold it - but I might get a cordless just because that would be very handy. The Trion is also a very good saw, but not cordless.

Don't forget about accessories and consumables - that can add to the overall cost. Also, take advantage of the 30 day trial, but that only applies to the tool and what it comes with - no accessories or consumables.

[member=6605]ScotF[/member] that last post of your's in [member=66538]Vangor[/member] thread yesterday was sage advice too.
The OP may also want to visit that thread.

I totally concur with your recommendation on the MFT+track saw combo. An MFT is made to hold a rail.
Any sheet work results in straight with a track saw.
An HKC could be great for a deck?

Two nice sanders are the Mirka DEROS (6"5-mm) and the Festool ETS/EC either 125/3-mm or the 150/5-mm. I have the former, and the later is about the same in Festool colors. Both of these have about 2x the power of the ETS (non-EC) model, and are in a different league.

Bosch makes some nice jig saws. If cost is no option then there is always the undisputed king...  [cool]
If you really use a jig saw a lot, and opt for the best, then that could change what rails system want to use, and that percolates back up to the tracksaw. But a band saw may be a wiser thing to eventually get?

There is a video of a vacuum shoot out and Milwaukee and Makita were both scoring high. I think the Milwaukee was a rebadged Starmix. The video was posted with in the last week - I think by me??

There are some woodcraft stores in SoCal, and Anderson plywood is up in Santa Monica or Venice. There has to be other shops around too.

Thanks so much, @Holmz.  Great info!

Wish cost was no object...sadly, not yet. Good to think of the Bosch options as well.

Good thoughts on the sanders.  I’ve been haunting the WoodCraft in my area...likely destination to make the purchase once I make the call. 

Love the idea of a bandsaw, but no portable options there, right?

Does it matter to stick to one system on the vacuum?  Are they truly interchangeable?

 

[ScotF]

I think if you are getting started, an extractor, MFT and TS saw make lots of sense. I personally like the cordless TSC55 and it works great with the MFT. I would opt for that for furniture over an HK saw - especially if you will use sheet goods for some projects. I would opt for a TS75 if doing lots of thicker hardwoods.

For the extractor, consider a 26 or 36 for more capacity and ability to use other accessories later like the Boom Arm. Footprint is about the same as a midi (mini is less). Suction is the same for all. If you combine two tools you can save 10% off the MFT and the extractor.

Sander - I would opt for one of the ETS EC sanders or Rotex - either 125 or 150. Choose a size that you are comfortable with and go for it. I like them all and the size depends on what I am doing. Do not overlook the need for a Delta sander for corners - so the RO90 and DTS are the two options on that front. Personally I would opt for a Rotex as my first sander since it is so versatile and can be used to aggressively sand for fast stock removal and also random orbit for fine finishing all in one tool. You can get cordless Delta DTS, RTS and the ETS finish sander now so that might be an option if you need to work without an extension cord.

Jigsaws - many like the Carvex. I owned one for years and sold it - but I might get a cordless just because that would be very handy. The Trion is also a very good saw, but not cordless.

Don't forget about accessories and consumables - that can add to the overall cost. Also, take advantage of the 30 day trial, but that only applies to the tool and what it comes with - no accessories or consumables.

Thanks so much for the thoughtful response!

If I may... why do you think the TS is better than an HK?  I really can’t figure that one out.

Very good tips on the other categories - much appreciated.  Will have to think hard on the extractor in particular.  Even though I know it’s probably right to upsize, I struggle to think of spending $700 or $800 on that category. That said, if it’s that good, maybe I can work inside and buy myself some more time.

Good note on consumables too...those always seems to surprise me as they add up...

I think dust collection is better and cut quality is better. It does not excel cutting off of a rail or handling construction material as easily, so if you are cutting 2x then an HK might be better. I too build furniture and a TS saw and MFT handle anything I need to cut with accuracy. If you go cordless on your tools you could delay an extractor perhaps. But, I think it is worth the money. It is only a little more than other sizes and when you consider cost of bags it is not that much. Of course, you could get a long life bag that you empty over and over (but that costs a few hundred) or you can get a dust deputy or something but that is added cost and etorage. Personally I go bags and just toss them when fill, they are not that expensive in the grand scheme of things and on a 26 take some time to fill up. On a mini it would be fast and the small vac sys would be after every few cuts.

 

[Holmz]

...
Thanks so much, [member=40772]Holmz[/member].  Great info!

Wish cost was no object...sadly, not yet. Good to think of the Bosch options as well.

Good thoughts on the sanders.  I’ve been haunting the WoodCraft in my area...likely destination to make the purchase once I make the call. 

Love the idea of a bandsaw, but no portable options there, right?

Does it matter to stick to one system on the vacuum?  Are they truly interchangeable?

Well where in SoCal are you?

I run a lamello Zeta and cantex, Mafell MT55 and jig saw, and some Festools on a CT26 as well as a Mirka hand sanding block... Generally all the tools fit on each other's vacuums.

There is one portable bandsaw, but realistically you probably want a bolt down unit.
This could push a jig saw purchase out, if a bandsaw was a better tool for your use...

While the DEROS is top of the line, I would probably get a ETS/EC 150/5 in the US...
But IMO it is worth mentioning other brands so you can investigate them for yourself. Many people like the 125-mm, but I do most of my sanding before assembly.

There are lots of good tools these days, so it is easier to get a good one, and harder to choose with more options.
Milwaukee also has some decemt stuff for drills and their battery platform is decent.
Their vacuum is worth a look IMO.

Clamps are other stuff add up fast. I would suggest not buying anything you do not need straight away. You could blow the bank easily... just get the right tool for the job at hand and take your time purchasing... while beavering away on projects.

 

[Bob D.]

"Love the idea of a bandsaw, but no portable options there, right?"

A 14" bandsaw doesn't have that big of a footprint even when mounted on a mobile base, I'd say about 24"x24", so it might be doable if you have the space to wheel it away into for storage. You can get a used BS for less than half the price of a top of the line jig saw. But one doesn't fully replace the other, they each have their advantages and weaknesses depending on the work.

MFT/3 and TSC55 has been a great combination for me. I don't need to break the MFT down and set up each time I work though. I leave it out and the saw gets put away at the end of each work session.

There are a number of alternative benches (Paulk Bench and Tims' MFTC to name just two of many) you can build and you'll find a number of threads here about them and on YT. You can use the jigs from Peter Parfitt and others to make your own MFT style top that can be set on a pair of horses or built into a custom bench of your own design. There are also commercial options such as the Kreg bench, they offer features the MFT/3 does not but still I don't think they can compare if you are wanting a work surface you can use as part of a system for cutting sheet goods or dimensional lumber to size.

 

[ear3]

Unless you're going to be doing a lot of on the spot small panel cutting or framing timber cutting, I would recommend the TS(C)55 over the HKC for what you're doing.  You get a finer finish cut and more power.

If you're looking to cut down on setup time, you might consider modifying the MFT/3 so that it sits atop a roll out cart that you make yourself (basically just by folding up or removing the legs), which would also give you another surface for assembly when removing the MFT.  The MFT doesn't take that much time to set up and square once you get the hang of it, but it sounds like you are looking to save as much time as possible.  Alternatively you could look into manufacturing you're own perforated top using one of the many jigs that are available for that purpose (like Peter Parfitt's UJK jig, or the Woodrave template) -- but you would not get the CNC precision with those that you might otherwise be looking.

People sometimes gravitate to the 125 diameter on sanders over the 150 due to the relative cost and because, in the case of the Rotex, it has the appearance of being a goldilocks option (not too big like the RO150, or too small like the RO90, but just right!).  But since it sounds like you are looking for a general sander, I would strongly recommend looking at the 150 models, either the ETS-EC 150/5 or the RO150.  That extra 25mm diameter translates to about 50% more surface area, and the more aggressive stroke of the 150 models (particularly the 150/5) make quick work of most sanding jobs.  The 2mm stroke on the ETS 125 makes it more suitable for fine finish sanding.

As for the Vac, I would not recommend the CT-Sys as my primary dust collector.  It's main virtue is portability, but it lacks variable suction (which can be useful in sanding) and the bag fills up really quickly.  If you're woodworking is only occasional, then perhaps it still might make sense as an option.  But if you plan on expanding your tool base in the future (particularly to include something like a router), then you will find the small capacity of the CT-Sys to be limiting.  If you do end up going for a smaller vac like the mini or midi over a CT26, then the long-life bag actually is a good up front investment over the long haul.  Keep in mind too, that it's only starting with the Midi and above that you have the option of stacking systainers on top.

 

[demographic]

As a longterm owner of a TS55, CTM Cleantec extractor and working as a site carpenter I have to say that the TS55 often gets left in my van now that I have a a HKC 55 cordless saw.
It fits onto the same rails as the TS but then has its own excellent crosscut rail (I have the 420 mm cut rail which is about 16 3/4" if you use that antiquated Liberian measurement system).

The TS saws are great but that crosscut rail is a serious space saver as it means you can work off a set of sawhorses with ease.

 

[thudchkr]

I really like my HKC saw since getting it. I’ve used it both on tithe crosscut rails and the FS rails. Been happy with the cut both ways. One thing not mentioned yet is if you decide to go with the HKC, you will most likely need a fine cut sawblade for it if you want/need a smoothly cut surface. The blade that comes with the saw does an ok job, but not nearly as good of surface as the fine tooth blade.  Also, you’ll need to get a longer rail as the FSK will not have enough capacity to be breaking down sheets of ply, or MDF.

I opted for the cordless HKC over the TSC because I already have corded versions of the TS 55 and a TS 75. Had I not already possessed the corded saw(s), I would hav3 most likely gotten the TSC 55 instead.

I think you’ll end up happy with either of those two, but your choice should be more dependent on what you plan on doing. Finer construction and cutting up panel goods would be better served by the TSC while a greater focus on rougher cuts, cuts you might use a miter saw for, and more general construction type tasks put The HKC in front.

Good luck with whichever choice you end up making.

 

[Jdb123]

I think if you are getting started, an extractor, MFT and TS saw make lots of sense. I personally like the cordless TSC55 and it works great with the MFT. I would opt for that for furniture over an HK saw - especially if you will use sheet goods for some projects. I would opt for a TS75 if doing lots of thicker hardwoods.

For the extractor, consider a 26 or 36 for more capacity and ability to use other accessories later like the Boom Arm. Footprint is about the same as a midi (mini is less). Suction is the same for all. If you combine two tools you can save 10% off the MFT and the extractor.

Sander - I would opt for one of the ETS EC sanders or Rotex - either 125 or 150. Choose a size that you are comfortable with and go for it. I like them all and the size depends on what I am doing. Do not overlook the need for a Delta sander for corners - so the RO90 and DTS are the two options on that front. Personally I would opt for a Rotex as my first sander since it is so versatile and can be used to aggressively sand for fast stock removal and also random orbit for fine finishing all in one tool. You can get cordless Delta DTS, RTS and the ETS finish sander now so that might be an option if you need to work without an extension cord.

Jigsaws - many like the Carvex. I owned one for years and sold it - but I might get a cordless just because that would be very handy. The Trion is also a very good saw, but not cordless.

Don't forget about accessories and consumables - that can add to the overall cost. Also, take advantage of the 30 day trial, but that only applies to the tool and what it comes with - no accessories or consumables.

Thanks so much for the thoughtful response!

If I may... why do you think the TS is better than an HK?  I really can’t figure that one out.

Very good tips on the other categories - much appreciated.  Will have to think hard on the extractor in particular.  Even though I know it’s probably right to upsize, I struggle to think of spending $700 or $800 on that category. That said, if it’s that good, maybe I can work inside and buy myself some more time.

Good note on consumables too...those always seems to surprise me as they add up...

I think dust collection is better and cut quality is better. It does not excel cutting off of a rail or handling construction material as easily, so if you are cutting 2x then an HK might be better. I too build furniture and a TS saw and MFT handle anything I need to cut with accuracy. If you go cordless on your tools you could delay an extractor perhaps. But, I think it is worth the money. It is only a little more than other sizes and when you consider cost of bags it is not that much. Of course, you could get a long life bag that you empty over and over (but that costs a few hundred) or you can get a dust deputy or something but that is added cost and etorage. Personally I go bags and just toss them when fill, they are not that expensive in the grand scheme of things and on a 26 take some time to fill up. On a mini it would be fast and the small vac sys would be after every few cuts.

Thanks.  Makes sense on the TS vs. HK.  Didn't think about bags on the extractor.  Extra cost, etc.  Will have to factor that in.

 

[Jdb123]

...
Thanks so much, [member=40772]Holmz[/member].  Great info!

Wish cost was no object...sadly, not yet. Good to think of the Bosch options as well.

Good thoughts on the sanders.  I’ve been haunting the WoodCraft in my area...likely destination to make the purchase once I make the call. 

Love the idea of a bandsaw, but no portable options there, right?

Does it matter to stick to one system on the vacuum?  Are they truly interchangeable?

Well where in SoCal are you?

I run a lamello Zeta and cantex, Mafell MT55 and jig saw, and some Festools on a CT26 as well as a Mirka hand sanding block... Generally all the tools fit on each other's vacuums.

There is one portable bandsaw, but realistically you probably want a bolt down unit.
This could push a jig saw purchase out, if a bandsaw was a better tool for your use...

While the DEROS is top of the line, I would probably get a ETS/EC 150/5 in the US...
But IMO it is worth mentioning other brands so you can investigate them for yourself. Many people like the 125-mm, but I do most of my sanding before assembly.

There are lots of good tools these days, so it is easier to get a good one, and harder to choose with more options.
Milwaukee also has some decemt stuff for drills and their battery platform is decent.
Their vacuum is worth a look IMO.

Clamps are other stuff add up fast. I would suggest not buying anything you do not need straight away. You could blow the bank easily... just get the right tool for the job at hand and take your time purchasing... while beavering away on projects.

In NorCal, actually...though a good weather part of the region (Los Altos, if you know the area). 

Thanks for the tips on the other tools / brands.  I have a mix of other stuff right now, and planning this upgrade to address various frustrations with those tools.  Plus, there's something in the elegance of having a limited number of brands that appeals to my anal retentive side - not to mention too many batteries, etc.

Good to know the vac platform has been fairly broadly usable for you across that full range. 

I hear you on the clamps.  Don't want to think about the money spent there in $10 and $25 increments. 

 

[Jdb123]

"Love the idea of a bandsaw, but no portable options there, right?"

A 14" bandsaw doesn't have that big of a footprint even when mounted on a mobile base, I'd say about 24"x24", so it might be doable if you have the space to wheel it away into for storage. You can get a used BS for less than half the price of a top of the line jig saw. But one doesn't fully replace the other, they each have their advantages and weaknesses depending on the work.

MFT/3 and TSC55 has been a great combination for me. I don't need to break the MFT down and set up each time I work though. I leave it out and the saw gets put away at the end of each work session.

There are a number of alternative benches (Paulk Bench and Tims' MFTC to name just two of many) you can build and you'll find a number of threads here about them and on YT. You can use the jigs from Peter Parfitt and others to make your own MFT style top that can be set on a pair of horses or built into a custom bench of your own design. There are also commercial options such as the Kreg bench, they offer features the MFT/3 does not but still I don't think they can compare if you are wanting a work surface you can use as part of a system for cutting sheet goods or dimensional lumber to size.

Thanks for this.  Good to know on bandsaws.  Hadn't really considered that as an option...always seemed like a big floor mounted piece in my mind, but obviously I was wrong.  Will have to take a look and see how that might work in my picture.

Sounds like it's not something you have to deal with, but I'll have to look into how hard/easy the MFT/3 is to break down/setup.  Might be something I have to think hard about. 

As a baseline, I've had so much frustration and wasted time trying to get straight cuts, that I'm willing to give up a lot in other areas to have a system that works for that.  If the MFT/3 fixes that problem, then I'm sold...

 

[Jdb123]

Unless you're going to be doing a lot of on the spot small panel cutting or framing timber cutting, I would recommend the TS(C)55 over the HKC for what you're doing.  You get a finer finish cut and more power.

If you're looking to cut down on setup time, you might consider modifying the MFT/3 so that it sits atop a roll out cart that you make yourself (basically just by folding up or removing the legs), which would also give you another surface for assembly when removing the MFT.  The MFT doesn't take that much time to set up and square once you get the hang of it, but it sounds like you are looking to save as much time as possible.  Alternatively you could look into manufacturing you're own perforated top using one of the many jigs that are available for that purpose (like Peter Parfitt's UJK jig, or the Woodrave template) -- but you would not get the CNC precision with those that you might otherwise be looking.

People sometimes gravitate to the 125 diameter on sanders over the 150 due to the relative cost and because, in the case of the Rotex, it has the appearance of being a goldilocks option (not too big like the RO150, or too small like the RO90, but just right!).  But since it sounds like you are looking for a general sander, I would strongly recommend looking at the 150 models, either the ETS-EC 150/5 or the RO150.  That extra 25mm diameter translates to about 50% more surface area, and the more aggressive stroke of the 150 models (particularly the 150/5) make quick work of most sanding jobs.  The 2mm stroke on the ETS 125 makes it more suitable for fine finish sanding.

As for the Vac, I would not recommend the CT-Sys as my primary dust collector.  It's main virtue is portability, but it lacks variable suction (which can be useful in sanding) and the bag fills up really quickly.  If you're woodworking is only occasional, then perhaps it still might make sense as an option.  But if you plan on expanding your tool base in the future (particularly to include something like a router), then you will find the small capacity of the CT-Sys to be limiting.  If you do end up going for a smaller vac like the mini or midi over a CT26, then the long-life bag actually is a good up front investment over the long haul.  Keep in mind too, that it's only starting with the Midi and above that you have the option of stacking systainers on top.

Love the idea of modifying the MFT for portability...don't need long distance portability - just from the garage into the backyard, so that's a very good idea.  Thanks for that...will have to explore.  Good to know on the plans to build my own.  Love the idea of something crafted to work with the TS, but as discussed, the price does seem pretty amazing.  Interesting to investigate what it would cost to build my own (and might be a fun project in and of itself...).

Sounds like there's a real consensus around the TS being more appropriate than the HK.  Very good to know - I hadn't understood that from the reviews I'd read previously. 

Also sounds like real consensus on the SYS being too small.  Will have to think hard on that one.  Given that I'm working outside most of the time, might not use the extraction too regularly...hoping I'm not taking my life in my hands since I'm only doing this a couple of hours a month - not like I'm in a workshop for 12 hour days on a daily basis.  But, also hate buying the low capacity item and finding it insufficient later, and then I've spent $400 AND $800.

Thanks for the color on the sander.  Helpful for me to understand that as well...

 

[Jdb123]

As a longterm owner of a TS55, CTM Cleantec extractor and working as a site carpenter I have to say that the TS55 often gets left in my van now that I have a a HKC 55 cordless saw.
It fits onto the same rails as the TS but then has its own excellent crosscut rail (I have the 420 mm cut rail which is about 16 3/4" if you use that antiquated Liberian measurement system).

The TS saws are great but that crosscut rail is a serious space saver as it means you can work off a set of sawhorses with ease.

Thanks - appreciate the counterpoint on this, [member=51145]demographic[/member].  Good to know on the crosscut rail. 

 

[Jdb123]

I really like my HKC saw since getting it. I’ve used it both on tithe crosscut rails and the FS rails. Been happy with the cut both ways. One thing not mentioned yet is if you decide to go with the HKC, you will most likely need a fine cut sawblade for it if you want/need a smoothly cut surface. The blade that comes with the saw does an ok job, but not nearly as good of surface as the fine tooth blade.  Also, you’ll need to get a longer rail as the FSK will not have enough capacity to be breaking down sheets of ply, or MDF.

I opted for the cordless HKC over the TSC because I already have corded versions of the TS 55 and a TS 75. Had I not already possessed the corded saw(s), I would hav3 most likely gotten the TSC 55 instead.

I think you’ll end up happy with either of those two, but your choice should be more dependent on what you plan on doing. Finer construction and cutting up panel goods would be better served by the TSC while a greater focus on rougher cuts, cuts you might use a miter saw for, and more general construction type tasks put The HKC in front.

Good luck with whichever choice you end up making.

Thanks for this as well, [member=2575]thudchkr[/member] .  Leaning towards the TSC 55 now, given all the input here - would be my only/primary for a while, and seems like the most suited to what I'm doing these days. 

 

[rvieceli]

[member=66587]Jdb123[/member] before you go ahead and drop a bunch of coin on some new tools, think about addressing your space issues. You could really benefit from a dedicated space even a smaller one where you could store tools and leave some things set up. I realize that there are a lot of folks here that have big wonderful workshops and such but even a small space makes a big difference in your work.

Perhaps a garden shed looking structure in the back yard next to a patio or deck for some outside work area would be doable. You can usually get something pre-made and delivered to your site if you don't want to build. Think 8x12, 12x12, 12x16

Here are some threads from here to mull over for small workspaces.
http://festoolownersgroup.com/works...-based-shops/small-shopmodular-work-surfaces-(aka-how-to-cram-10-in-a-5-sack-)/
http://festoolownersgroup.com/works...ed-shops/the-144-workshop-phases-one-and-two/

Ron

 

[sancho57]

It all depends on what you want to do. As Mr. P my mentor (RIP) used to tell me " Its all personal preference . So here is mine

I said many time here , Festool is a system there are 3 pieces that form the foundation of the system, MFT, TS 55 (or which ever saw you decide to choose) and a CT, I have the 26 and 22.

You'll need to look into guide rails, I suggest 2 holy rails and rail connectors.

Sanders , personal preferance but Id have at least 1 which is a rotex.

Now if I were to have only one, Id go with the 125.

Now with the MFT your going to need some clamps, I suggest a set of clamping elements and quick clamps.

Their are options for you, Instead of a MFT you can research the site here and see what others have built and find that meets their needs. The Ron Paulk work table seems to be popular with the folks here,you can buy the plans and make your own or buy the bench through Fast Cap they have options for you
http://www.fastcap.com/estore/pc/viewPrd.asp?idproduct=57263

Tim Tools portable work benches (he has 2 he designed) are pretty good to.

You should consider getting a router table since you need it portable the CMS should meet your needs.

Mike Sloggat has some good videos for working in a small space mainly sheet goods but you may find helpful
=PLpBJfh9Law-C7dXa_9y1DHOvKJF4cuhSf

Lots of options for you

As my my man Sedge says " I hope this helps"  [big grin]

 

[Jdb123]

[member=66587]Jdb123[/member] before you go ahead and drop a bunch of coin on some new tools, think about addressing your space issues. You could really benefit from a dedicated space even a smaller one where you could store tools and leave some things set up. I realize that there are a lot of folks here that have big wonderful workshops and such but even a small space makes a big difference in your work.

Perhaps a garden shed looking structure in the back yard next to a patio or deck for some outside work area would be doable. You can usually get something pre-made and delivered to your site if you don't want to build. Think 8x12, 12x12, 12x16

Here are some threads from here to mull over for small workspaces.
http://festoolownersgroup.com/works...-based-shops/small-shopmodular-work-surfaces-(aka-how-to-cram-10-in-a-5-sack-)/
http://festoolownersgroup.com/works...ed-shops/the-144-workshop-phases-one-and-two/

Ron

You’re cracking me up, Ron, because I’ve been imagining using my awesome new tools to build just what you’re describing...  thanks for the links to other small workspace threads.