Please help the new guy pick a saw

[Cheese]

1. Woodworking for me, at this point, is more about the process of learning a craft and the self growth that comes with that. Sorry if that sounds a little hokey, but at this point in my life I need to keep that perspective. 

2. I will be purchasing a Delta 36-725 table saw for all the reasons stated above.  This forum has also justified the track saw, which was my original intent.  Was there enough of a reason to step up into the TS-55/75 and MFT?  The resounding answer is yes!

1. No hokeyness in that attitude, actually that's a great attribute. Never too old to learn, when you quit learning, you quit living.

2. Good for you... [thumbs up]...the only reason I leaned towards a track saw is because I thought it was an either/or type of decision. Had I known you had the finances and the space to support both methods, I'd have recommended both. That's the best way to go, as I also have both and I know that just having one or the other is a serious compromise & PITA.

In the future think about a good bandsaw. I easily use my bandsaw as much as I use my table saw. [big grin]

 

[WarnerConstCo.]

And a 14" radial arm saw, old dewalt is the way to go. And a big bandsaw, 36" or so, maybe a 30" jointer

 

[seandoh]

In the future think about a good bandsaw. I easily use my bandsaw as much as I use my table saw. [big grin]
[/quote]

Thanks, Cheese!
Looking back, my original post was a little ambiguous, I am learning the ways of forum speak along with woodworking! 

A bandsaw and joiner or planer (still educating myself on the differences in these lines) are next on the list.  There are so many aspects of this endeavor that intrigue me, breaking down large pieces of lumber into workable dimensions definitley hits a few fun buttons for me.  The entire process - from raw wood to applying the finishing applications has my full attention right now, I am too new to be jaded about any step of it.  Hopefully by selecting the right tools I will keep that mindset.
When the timing is right I will be posting here and at lumberjocks.com for advice.  This thread has shown me the value of seeking help through the internet. 
Along those lines, I must say that compared to forums in my other interest (read: firearms), the woodworkinig community is a much happier and healthier forum for sharing.  Thanks...sean

 

[ccarrolladams]

Seandoh,
[welcome] to The FOG!!!

Please let me add my thoughts about saws:

There is a learning curve to track saws such as the TS55 REQ, and it really helps to receive some coaching. However, using a track saw to accurately cut sheet material is far easier than learning all the tricks and safety considerations of a table saw.

You mention only having a single parking spot as your shop space. Frankly that is not enough space to rip a 4x8' sheet on a table saw. That is enough space to do so using a track saw.

For solid lumber a powerful table saw is a huge help, but for the purpose you do not need as large a table nor all the space to move a full sheet.

When milling solid lumber having a sliding table saw, a bandsaw and a miter saw is important. There are combination machine which convert from jointer to thickness planer to save space. But even in a DIY situation using the combo is frustrating. Usually you need to joint on side and edge. Then you thickness plane the other side and edge. Next you might still to re-joint a side, edge or both. Remember there is an art to using a jointer and planer, best learned from being coached.

 

[MrToolJunkie]

You can use lots of saws to cut wood. Heck, even a hand panel saw will allow you to size material - just with more effort. I use my track saw set up for most cuts these days and I have a large cabinet saw at my disposal. Yes, the table saw is more efficient for lots of ripping and in a production type setting it would be a necessity. But for a hobby where you are not trying to beat the clock, I think you can get great results safely with a track saw. It might require more jigging and layout, but it can be done. I have made numerous tables, bookcases, frames, cabinets, etc... and all without turning on my cabinet saw. I do think that a jointer, planer (or combo) and a bandsaw are the 2-3 most critical tools for solid wood furniture making. A good bandsaw will not take up a huge amount of space, but it will allow you to rip narrow pieces and rough wood, cut curves, all kinds of joints and resaw in one machine. With the right blade, set-up and practice you can even get a piece of rough stock square and flat using a bandsaw. I have a Hammer J/P combination and I find that it does a great job in  a small space -- having 12 inches of capacity on a jointer is huge and I do not find it to be a big deal to change between functions. Again, if you are in a production setting it makes sense to have two different machines for each application. But in a hobby, taking a minute to switch functions is not that big of a deal.