As a newbie, I don't know if this has been asked but I will post anyway and maybe you can direct me to previous posts. The wife just gave me the green light to spend around $1500 for a table saw (Sawstop) that I thought I really wanted but am now unsure after researching Festools plunge saws. I am looking for the most versatile saw for handyman projects(35%) & furniture building(65%). I realize a table saw can use dados but I could rout those if needed. Wanted some input from owners and what they would do with $1500? Thanks.
Table saw or TS 75 & Dust Extractor??
- Thread starter dutch2001
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erock
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Dutch,
This would be a personal preference. But I would get the TS over a table saw. It takes up lest space in the garage.
If you feel the need for a table saw, then maybe look at a smaller portable one that wouldn't take a lot of space like
the sawstop would. I gave my table saw away and have had no regrets. I haven't used a table saw in over two years.
But you will find, each guy has his personal choice. I know guys on here will tell you to get a table saw, so it's really
up to you on what you need. If this is going to be your first Festool purchase, be carefull, you're gonna want more
[tongue]
And, when the wife gives me the green light for big purchases, I like to take some of that money
and buy her something as well, so she forgets the fact I just spent around $1500. [wink]
Eric
This would be a personal preference. But I would get the TS over a table saw. It takes up lest space in the garage.
If you feel the need for a table saw, then maybe look at a smaller portable one that wouldn't take a lot of space like
the sawstop would. I gave my table saw away and have had no regrets. I haven't used a table saw in over two years.
But you will find, each guy has his personal choice. I know guys on here will tell you to get a table saw, so it's really
up to you on what you need. If this is going to be your first Festool purchase, be carefull, you're gonna want more
[tongue]
And, when the wife gives me the green light for big purchases, I like to take some of that money
and buy her something as well, so she forgets the fact I just spent around $1500. [wink]
Eric
AlexThePalex
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I wouldn't want to be without either one of them. They both have their strengths.
Track saw is not a replacement for table saw and vice versa, although there is significant overlap in functionality. It is very awkward to use track saw on small or narrow work pieces despite all the contraptions people come up with. On the other hand it is awesome on large stock, cutting at odd angles for grain matching (I build furniture) and it doubles as a jointer for me. And since you mentioned SawStop it is very safe too.
Ideally I would prefer a small bench top saw such as DW745 and a track saw.
Ideally I would prefer a small bench top saw such as DW745 and a track saw.
[welcome]
I would get the TS75 and MFT/3 package, clamping elements and quick clamps or TS75 and CT package. You can save a little buy buying a package. If you already have a work bench and/or shop vac you could could use what you have and get a TS75 package with either the MFT/3 or CT, and save for future purchases.
Or, If you could save a little more and get the TS75, MFT/3, CT and clamps, that would be ideal (this is what I did.) Trust me, once you start buying Festools you will not want to stop.
Without a table saw you will want the extra cutting capacity of the TS75 to build furniture. The only negative with the track saws is cutting small pieces, and as you said you can make dados with a router.
Another thing to consider is guide rails. The TS75 comes with a 75" (1900mm) rail and the MFT/3 has a 42" (1080) rail. If you're cutting down sheet goods you will need a longer rail like the 118" (3000mm) rail or you can connect two rails together with 2 rail connectors.
Sorry for the long reply, but there are a lot of things to consider that may not be obvious.
Enjoy,
Daniel
I would get the TS75 and MFT/3 package, clamping elements and quick clamps or TS75 and CT package. You can save a little buy buying a package. If you already have a work bench and/or shop vac you could could use what you have and get a TS75 package with either the MFT/3 or CT, and save for future purchases.
Or, If you could save a little more and get the TS75, MFT/3, CT and clamps, that would be ideal (this is what I did.) Trust me, once you start buying Festools you will not want to stop.
Without a table saw you will want the extra cutting capacity of the TS75 to build furniture. The only negative with the track saws is cutting small pieces, and as you said you can make dados with a router.
Another thing to consider is guide rails. The TS75 comes with a 75" (1900mm) rail and the MFT/3 has a 42" (1080) rail. If you're cutting down sheet goods you will need a longer rail like the 118" (3000mm) rail or you can connect two rails together with 2 rail connectors.
Sorry for the long reply, but there are a lot of things to consider that may not be obvious.
Enjoy,
Daniel
you know - a TS75 and a MFT would work really well.
Dado's are possible, they just take many cuts - the issue is more narrow rips (i/e 2x4 into 2x2 or smaller). You can do this on the MFT with some trickery, but the longer and narrower the rip the more difficult.
However, if you add in a router table, a bandsaw, and a thickness planer (or hand tools) I dont think you will feel limited by the Festools.
Its a bit of a backhanded compliment really: their nice, safer then most table saws, their portable, but they are different tools. I'm not sure if (for the work you describe) you already have a permanent shop or good DC if they are really very good value.
FYI, I actually prefer the TS55 vs the 75, I find the 75 to be very heavy for 90% of the work I do. Also 2'' cutting depth is IMO more then enough for most 90degree cuts for furniture. Where I have wanted the depth of the 75 has only been in 45 degree cuts in 1+'' thick material. Everywhere else I enjoy the lighter weight of the TS55
Dado's are possible, they just take many cuts - the issue is more narrow rips (i/e 2x4 into 2x2 or smaller). You can do this on the MFT with some trickery, but the longer and narrower the rip the more difficult.
However, if you add in a router table, a bandsaw, and a thickness planer (or hand tools) I dont think you will feel limited by the Festools.
Its a bit of a backhanded compliment really: their nice, safer then most table saws, their portable, but they are different tools. I'm not sure if (for the work you describe) you already have a permanent shop or good DC if they are really very good value.
FYI, I actually prefer the TS55 vs the 75, I find the 75 to be very heavy for 90% of the work I do. Also 2'' cutting depth is IMO more then enough for most 90degree cuts for furniture. Where I have wanted the depth of the 75 has only been in 45 degree cuts in 1+'' thick material. Everywhere else I enjoy the lighter weight of the TS55
Aren't Sawstop table saws a lot more than $1500?
I sold my table saw and bought the TS75, MFT/3 and CT26. I already had a small bandsaw for ripping and I use a router for dados. Works great. Don't miss the table saw at all and I have a lot more room in my very small shop.
I sold my table saw and bought the TS75, MFT/3 and CT26. I already had a small bandsaw for ripping and I use a router for dados. Works great. Don't miss the table saw at all and I have a lot more room in my very small shop.
leakyroof
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Try the Festool track saw system first. It's easier for you to store and use for many versatile tasks since the guide rails can also be used by other tools. Get an MFT and a Dust Extractor along with the saw that you buy. As noted, the TS75 HAS the power and blade size to do more than the TS55, but at a cost of weight. If you mainly work with 5/4 or 4/4 stock, you'll probably feel it's overkill for the most part.
If the Festool system doesn't work out for you, the resale value is generally very good compared to a used table saw and the smaller tools are much easier to ship in a box if needed.
If the Festool system doesn't work out for you, the resale value is generally very good compared to a used table saw and the smaller tools are much easier to ship in a box if needed.
Blackberry
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I do 95% of my work in the shop, cabinets and furniture. I have a unisaw and a TS55. I use the table saw all the time and don't believe I could do without it. I use the TS55 as my panel saw to break down sheet goods. Both are great.
The track saw is a fun and interesting tool to learn to use. Its a lot different form a table saw. If you are cutting plywood or other panel products mostly, its great, and effective.
And far safer in terms of fingers and kickbacks and in most cases dust collection.
You might specify exactly what kind of work you intend to do, and how much space you have, to get more specific answers.
For instance a table saw will have at least an 18 foot footprint if you want to rip 4x8 panels- 8 feet in front and in back of the blade, plus you...
Most people on the clock need a table saw to make fast repeat cuts, to cut long narrow stock easily, etc.
I'm doing jobs for clients these days and am getting by pretty well with just the TS55 and MFT.
Some cuts are fast like a table saw, others take some time and figuring out, not too big a deal for me.
I started out with a MFT replacement top and qwas dogs as a cheap way to get some MFT cross cut and clamping functionality. You might consider this if you're on a budget. Can always get the full MFT later, or build a custom bench integrating the MFT top.
And far safer in terms of fingers and kickbacks and in most cases dust collection.
You might specify exactly what kind of work you intend to do, and how much space you have, to get more specific answers.
For instance a table saw will have at least an 18 foot footprint if you want to rip 4x8 panels- 8 feet in front and in back of the blade, plus you...
Most people on the clock need a table saw to make fast repeat cuts, to cut long narrow stock easily, etc.
I'm doing jobs for clients these days and am getting by pretty well with just the TS55 and MFT.
Some cuts are fast like a table saw, others take some time and figuring out, not too big a deal for me.
I started out with a MFT replacement top and qwas dogs as a cheap way to get some MFT cross cut and clamping functionality. You might consider this if you're on a budget. Can always get the full MFT later, or build a custom bench integrating the MFT top.
3PedalMINI
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Go with the TS75 & CT dc. Then grab a portable table saw like a bosch. I have this combo(well TS55) and its the best of both worlds. I use my 55 far more then my Table Saw.
Dutch,
I would recommend that you think of a track saw as a tool for cutting sheet goods and a table saw as a tool for cutting pieces of furniture to final size.
Based on your projected needs I would buy the Saw Stop table saw first, you can always use a skill saw and straight edge to cut sheet goods if needed.
I build mostly furniture and despite having a sliding table for my table saw, I will eventually replace my Porter Cable trim saw and straight edge for a Festool Track Saw but, I will never be without my Table Saw since it's an every day use tool.
JackO
I would recommend that you think of a track saw as a tool for cutting sheet goods and a table saw as a tool for cutting pieces of furniture to final size.
Based on your projected needs I would buy the Saw Stop table saw first, you can always use a skill saw and straight edge to cut sheet goods if needed.
I build mostly furniture and despite having a sliding table for my table saw, I will eventually replace my Porter Cable trim saw and straight edge for a Festool Track Saw but, I will never be without my Table Saw since it's an every day use tool.
JackO
Hi dutch,
Welcome to the FOG ! [smile]
Ideal is to have both. I don't have a table saw, so I can tell you that it is possible to do just about everything with the Festool saws. A good cutting table set will be important to make that work. Sometimes a little creativity with jigs.
The Festool saws excel at sheet goods, and straightline ripping solid wood and are capable of most other tasks.
A table saw excells at repetitive cuts and small parts, and narrow stock cutting. Space will be a consideration when cutting sheets goods and long boards on a table saw.
Here is one thread you might find useful http://festoolownersgroup.com/festool-tools-accessories/can-a-plunge-cut-saw-truly-replace-a-table-saw/
Also keep in mind you can try the track saw for 30 days.
Seth
Welcome to the FOG ! [smile]
Ideal is to have both. I don't have a table saw, so I can tell you that it is possible to do just about everything with the Festool saws. A good cutting table set will be important to make that work. Sometimes a little creativity with jigs.
The Festool saws excel at sheet goods, and straightline ripping solid wood and are capable of most other tasks.
A table saw excells at repetitive cuts and small parts, and narrow stock cutting. Space will be a consideration when cutting sheets goods and long boards on a table saw.
Here is one thread you might find useful http://festoolownersgroup.com/festool-tools-accessories/can-a-plunge-cut-saw-truly-replace-a-table-saw/
Also keep in mind you can try the track saw for 30 days.
Seth
Birdhunter
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I can't imagine doing without a table saw and a circular saw. I replaced my 20 year old Unisaw with a Sawstop Industrial table saw this year. My goal is to never make use of the instant stop feature, but it's there if I screw up. I have the TS55 and track that I use mainly for breaking down sheets of plywood. For precision cuts, especially with jigs, I use the table saw. It's 800 pounds of steel/cast iron and that's hard to beat for precision. The TS55 with the MFT augmented with QWAS dogs is highly useful, but not as a replacement for a table saw.
Kev
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Table saws are great if you have the space for them and if they're modern enough to support good DC. Portable table saws can be a challenge when it comes to precision (depending on the one you choose), but do give you some flexibility.
Festool keeps it's table saw solutions from the US at the moment, but the TS in a CMS or the PRECISIO format are a good solution - just waiting for their green light.
Personally I'd look to a band saw before a table saw (preceding both with a TS and an MFT) ... then hopefully the CMS TS modules will be released in the US [big grin]
Festool keeps it's table saw solutions from the US at the moment, but the TS in a CMS or the PRECISIO format are a good solution - just waiting for their green light.
Personally I'd look to a band saw before a table saw (preceding both with a TS and an MFT) ... then hopefully the CMS TS modules will be released in the US [big grin]
So let's say you needed to trim down a thin molding so it doesn't stand proud of another molding and you lose shadow lines..Like Cove for example underneath Pine nosing. Or let's say you needed to Champher some plinths..How would a TS saw adress this?
I vote Table saw first, especially if it's a saw stop your after. But..You could also compromise and get a Bosch table saw, which is great with ZCI and Forrest Blade and some dust collection attached. THEN..You could still have $1000 leftover to spring for a TS55R with a guide rail. And STILL have a few shekels leftover to put towards the table or a CT.
Yes, you can have it all and get awesome results from the combo I just mentioned. The TS saws are amazing, but you WILL want a table saw regardless. Confused yet?
I vote Table saw first, especially if it's a saw stop your after. But..You could also compromise and get a Bosch table saw, which is great with ZCI and Forrest Blade and some dust collection attached. THEN..You could still have $1000 leftover to spring for a TS55R with a guide rail. And STILL have a few shekels leftover to put towards the table or a CT.
Yes, you can have it all and get awesome results from the combo I just mentioned. The TS saws are amazing, but you WILL want a table saw regardless. Confused yet?
I don't think you should compromise with your Table Saw purchase since it will be the most used machine in your shop "if" your building furniture.
I think you should think long term and realize that you most likely won't be replacing these machines unless you come into a windfall of money and buy the best long term solution.
When you have another opportunity to purchase you can think about your next big purchase which in my opinion should ne a long bed wide Jointer and then a good quality Bandsaw.
Jack
I think you should think long term and realize that you most likely won't be replacing these machines unless you come into a windfall of money and buy the best long term solution.
When you have another opportunity to purchase you can think about your next big purchase which in my opinion should ne a long bed wide Jointer and then a good quality Bandsaw.
Jack
sancho57
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Depends what your doing. Building cabinets, TS 75 hands down. But now if your getting into things like jewelrey boxes etc, a table saw, if you have a small space TS 75.
Even festool recognizes the need for a table saw they make a saw module for the CMS and a table saw Prescio. Unfortunately you cant get them in North America.
Personally I am selling my table saw and my other stationary tools. I hardly ever use them anymore. I havent turned my table saw/ jointer, drill press on in quite a while.
I still might get a bench top table saw or if I go to Europe get me the CMS saw module for the TS 55. It will save me a lot of room in the shop.
Even festool recognizes the need for a table saw they make a saw module for the CMS and a table saw Prescio. Unfortunately you cant get them in North America.
Personally I am selling my table saw and my other stationary tools. I hardly ever use them anymore. I havent turned my table saw/ jointer, drill press on in quite a while.
I still might get a bench top table saw or if I go to Europe get me the CMS saw module for the TS 55. It will save me a lot of room in the shop.
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