Newbie question about tracksaw/MFT abilities

[cluesifer]

Hi guys, as the title says, new guy here with some beforehand research on the track saw.

When paired with the MFT, would you qualify the as better than a regular (not kapex) miter saw for trim/casework?  I realize there is probably some setup time involved with the MFT, definitely moreso than a simple miter saw.  I have a simple 10" DeWalt miter currently.  I'm a weekend remodeler and small time furniture maker and cabinet maker for myself.  Just trying to get some info up front.  Space in my garage is limited so i was thinking this setup could greatly increase the usage of my space, allowing me to put the miter saw up unless something specific comes up for me to use it for.  Thanks for the help!

 

[stphnlwlsh]

This might help in determining what the MFT/3 can do.

Festool MFT/3 Portable Workbench - Setup and Applications

 

[peter halle]

First, welcome to the FOG!

If you watch the video you will notice that when using the MFT to make cuts the rail is resting on the work.  For narrow trim you might need to put other pieces under the rail to prevent sag.  That alone in my mind reduces the effectiveness of using the MFT/3 for trim.  Add in the ability to quickly adjust any miter saw by a smudge and the MFT/3 falls quickly aside for what you are asking about.

But, if you get to the point of cutting flat stock and wider stock (>11.25") then you enter MFT/3 territory.  And of course the clamping capabilities of the Multi-Function table can't be touched by a miter saw.

I use my MFT all the time with my Kapex on top and swap usage based on what is best for the situation.

Peter

 

[cluesifer]

Pete, thanks for the info.  I had watched the video before, but not having firsthand usage of the tool, didn't realize about the rails deflecting when only a small piece of stock was being cut.  As much as I would like, a Kapex probably can't be included in the budget at this point.  With all the plywood I will be cutting up, a track saw is certainly in my future, I'm just not as sure about the MFT. 

 

[peter halle]

I might be a moderator, but I have taken years to build up my Festool collection.

My thoughts to you:

The track saw is the no brainer.  I experienced and have seen so many here have the  [doh] [doh] moment once they got one.

If you will be making crosscuts longer than what your existing miter saw will do and the material then you have the reason to get the MFT/3 to a much higher capacity than just using it as a clamping table.

The Kapex is sweet - but it comes at a price, and that can be a budget buster, so for a weekend remodeler it might be lower on my list.

The Festool system approach really starts kicking in after the building blocks of the first couple tools are in place.  For you the TS-55, the MFT/3 and a dust extractor might be that initial step.  With the TS-55 and MFT/3 you can do a package deal and save some $$.  Because you typically use the dust collector wide open for maximum dust collection on the track saw you could delay the Festool CT and combine that with the next tool to get a package deal which I would envision to be a sander.

Other guys here will have other thoughts.  If any of us can be of help, just ask here!

Peter

 

[skids]

Hi guys, as the title says, new guy here with some beforehand research on the track saw.

When paired with the MFT, would you qualify the as better than a regular (not kapex) miter saw for trim/casework?  I realize there is probably some setup time involved with the MFT, definitely moreso than a simple miter saw.  I have a simple 10" DeWalt miter currently.  I'm a weekend remodeler and small time furniture maker and cabinet maker for myself.  Just trying to get some info up front.  Space in my garage is limited so i was thinking this setup could greatly increase the usage of my space, allowing me to put the miter saw up unless something specific comes up for me to use it for.  Thanks for the help!

I wouldn't...If I am understanding you correctly comparing the MFT/3 and TS55 with a miter saw is not a comparison. The track can't fit the gap of a miter saw IMO. For trim work the track saw and table are good for ripping down sheet goods, underlayment, MDF for mantels and various cased openings, boxes and glue ups work as well. And lots of other things your mind can think up, but miter saw set up it is not.