New To Festool - F.O.G.

[David2T370]

Hello...My name is David and I am new to the Festool scene.  I will soon be purchasing my first Fes-Tools.

I have chosen to get the KS 120 with a vacuum package deal, purchased from Woodcraft (or somewhere else?).  The only confusing part about this is the choice of vacuums.  The KS 120 is offered in the package deal with all of the vacuum models - so which one do I choose?  It appears the savings is about the same regardless of model of vacuum.  The price difference between each model is not that significant so that is what I am unsure about.  Anyone out there have advise for a newcomer who has never owned a Festool product?

 

[Grasshopper]

Will the CT be dedicated to your Kapex?

If not, what usage do you see it also doing?

As you step up in CT's, you see greater capacity as a major difference (for heavy users, less frequency between bag changes is a big plus.  If you need to be portable, a smaller unit is important. 

With CFM's being the same, you have to decide which makes the most sense.  (as I understand, if you want a Boom-arm or other CT accessories, you have to at least step up to the CT26).

Good luck, I am a hobbyist, and enjoy my CT22 (same size as the 26), which gives me decent capacity, and portiblilty.

 

[gsdvorak]

Welcome to the FOG!

+1 on the comments from Grasshopper.  I too have the CT22 that was used on my Kapex as well as with my other tools.  However, based on other posts here, I recently picked up a CT MINI during the recent reconditioned sale and have that dedicated to my Kapex.  The CT22 now sits underneath my MFT and I now really like this setup, but your needs may vary.

Good Luck on your purchases and be ready to get the Green Flu!  [big grin]

 

[tbellemare]

The Kapex makes sawdust instead of chips so the bag size isn't all that significant unless you're going to be standing at it cutting all day, every day, or cutting plastic. Plastic makes "bird nests". What really makes a difference is using a 36mm hose instead of the 27mm hose that comes with the dust extractors normally. The 27mm hose really restricts the flow, which is good for sanding but not for the Kapex.

I you want to use either the Boom Arm or the Work Center, the minimum size is the CT 26 or CT 22 (if buying used).

As was already stated, if you want real portability get a MINI or MIDI.

All of the Festool CT's sold in NA can accept all of the hoses sold in NA.

Tom

 

[Just F Me]

If own a C26, but if i had to do it again, I'd buy a CT48.  I'm not moving it anywhere, it's only $100 more when purchased as a package, and i'm just using it around the house.  Some guys on the forums are bringing their CT on and off the job site.

That way the bag takes longer to fill up and it's almost double the size.  The bags are slightly more expensive.

 

[ear3]

I don't have the Kapex, but I do have some experience agonizing over vacuum choice.  I started out with the Midi, in part out of price considerations and in part out of the desire to be mobile.  I was happy with its performance, but I ended up trading up for the CT26 after a couple of weeks, and have not regretted it.  Since there is no difference in terms of the power, it was all about increased time between bag changing, and maybe adding the Boom Arm set at some point.  Remember, you have the 30 day return policy, so don't worry about making the perfect choice the first time.  Put it to use, see if it meets your needs, and then switch it out if not.

 

[David2T370]

I think the best option for me will be the CT48.  I can use it with all the extras, sawing, sanding, etc.  The difference in price between the Mini and the CT48 only being about $200.00 overall - you get more for your money that way - I believe.

Now...waiting with great anticipation to get them...

 

[weekendwarrior]

If you use a dust separator, e.g. a cyclone, along with your vacuum, you will rarely need to change the filter.  Something to consider spending that $200 on.