New Tool Question

[TJ Sanner]

New here on FOG.  I am slowly starting to up my hobby carpentry and been working on setting my shop up.  Next on my list is to attempt some open faced cabinets and some plywood boxes on casters for under bench storage.  I am also looking to expand my festool lineup.  So I am torn on what would suit me better, the OS1400 for dados or the DF500.  What are your thoughts? 

Also through your experiences what is the better hobbyist dust extractor.  Portability isn't an issue it would stay in the shop.  Just looking for some guidance for someone who has been through it before.  Wouldn't mind getting the package deals which is why the dust collector is on my list as well as the router or domino.

Thanks for the help. 

TJ 

 

[jacko9]

Welcome,  My preference would be the Domino and the CT26 a perfect combination that will allow you to easily construct cabinets and furniture.  I think a multiple mortise and tenon joint is better than a dado joint which you can always cut on your table saw.

Jack

 

[dltflt]

I would go with the Domino because it is a game changer. Also if you buy the Domino now you get 10% off and if you add a vacuum you get 5% extra off I believe.

 

[Paul G]

Welcome TJ! Kinda hard to suggest what tools are next without knowing what is already in your stable.

 

[TJ Sanner]

Welcome TJ! Kinda hard to suggest what tools are next without knowing what is already in your stable.

Sorry.  Drill press, bandsaw, dewalt portable tools, ts55, upright and circular sander.  Like I said I am just starting out.  My space is limited so a not sure if Ill have enough room for a table saw, kinda hoping the ts55 could get me through for awhile. 

 

[Birdhunter]

The Festool routers are great tools, but they are just routers. The Domino is a tool, as a prior post said, that is a game changer. Get the set with all the cutters and an assortment of tenons. Watch Halfinchshy's videos before you unpack the Domino. Order the Domiplate. It's perfect for working with plywood. Practice on scrap. Watch the videos again.

I have both Festool and Fein vacs. Both are powerful, efficient, and relatively quiet. They are a lot more costly than a Home Depot shop vac, but they are much better.

Enjoy.

 

[Paul G]

Welcome TJ! Kinda hard to suggest what tools are next without knowing what is already in your stable.

Sorry.  Drill press, bandsaw, dewalt portable tools, ts55, upright and circular sander.  Like I said I am just starting out.  My space is limited so a not sure if Ill have enough room for a table saw, kinda hoping the ts55 could get me through for awhile.  

You can do a lot with the ts55, will tackle the plywood just fine (assuming you also have guide rails). As far as dust collection, I've got a CT, the variable suction is a plus for sanding and the tool activated power, systainer stacking and hoses makes for great ease when dealing with other festools. I've also got a shop vac/dust deputy combo, ugly but saves cost and captures dust great, but isn't as integrated.

Agreed with others that the festool routers are nice but others can work for less (albeit messier and perhaps with less ease), however the domino is especially unique in the overall tool landscape. A miter saw would be a really nice addition also, I know I use mine often.

 

[TJ Sanner]

You can do a lot with the ts55, will tackle the plywood just fine (assuming you also have guide rails). As far as dust collection, I've got a CT, the variable suction is a plus for sanding and the tool activated power, systainer stacking and hoses makes for great ease when dealing with other festools. I've also got a shop vac/dust deputy combo, ugly but saves cost and captures dust great, but isn't as integrated.

Agreed with others that the festool routers are nice but others can work for less (albeit messier and perhaps with less ease), however the domino is especially unique in the overall tool landscape. A miter saw would be a really nice addition also, I know I use mine often.
[/quote]

Thanks for the help.  I do have 2 of the 1400mm rails.  Did forget to mention my mitre saw, I do have one. I'm happy with the comments in favor of the domino as I was leaning towards it to start.  I am working through the recommended videos now as well.

TJ