Being a recent convert to the Festool sect, how many of you are still using a table saw from time to time? I purchased the TS55, MFT3, and the Kapex. I am wondering how does the rail work out for small rips? Say something in the 3"x 12" range. I realize I could set this smaller piece next to a bigger one to support the rail. I have not plugged mine in yet yo try this because I am still debateing on going with the TS77. I don't think I woud mind getting rid of the table saw because of the bulk. Whats your thoughts?
Table saw's
- Thread starter Tony M
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Michael Kellough
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- Jan 23, 2007
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This is a very common question, I've even asked it before.
I think the simple answer is, depends on what you do/want/like.
I'm not sure anyone can argue that a TS is better for multiple rips on boards whose length don't tax your abilities to cut them. With my setup any rip less then 60" is done on my TS. I also prefer to cut dado's and rabets on the TS for drawers and similar items. Bevel cuts might also be an issue. Maybe.
Other people will tell you they now use their TS to collect tools and dust. I still use mine.
Steve
I think the simple answer is, depends on what you do/want/like.
I'm not sure anyone can argue that a TS is better for multiple rips on boards whose length don't tax your abilities to cut them. With my setup any rip less then 60" is done on my TS. I also prefer to cut dado's and rabets on the TS for drawers and similar items. Bevel cuts might also be an issue. Maybe.
Other people will tell you they now use their TS to collect tools and dust. I still use mine.
Steve
builderbob
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I have the ts55 and i still use the table saw for smaller rips...it just works for me.
Bob
Bob
I do find that my Festools do away with the need for a large table saw. You could go with a high quality small table saw that can very easily be stowed out of the way when not needed. For me I use a Shopsmith. I have used it for many years prior to having any Festools. I have found that the Shopsmith and Festool complement each other perfectly, at least for me. I just couldn't imagine not having a table saw, planer, jointer, router table, bandsaw... for the more complex projects. Since I am space challenged this is the system that works for me and gives me all I need. If I had the space I would rather have dedicated machines as well as Festool.
Brad Evans
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- Jan 27, 2007
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- 75
My table saw is just too convenient to use on many things. Plus, it doesn't go out of square if bumped. Would never give it up.
Jim Becker
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- Jan 16, 2007
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I have a slider and while I almost worship my Festool gear, I'd not give up my TS.
The bottom line is that this issue is totally dependent on what you do and how you like to do it.
The bottom line is that this issue is totally dependent on what you do and how you like to do it.
Loren Hedahl
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- Jan 16, 2007
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Once I got my TS55 with several rails, MFT 1080 table and CT22 vac I found that I seldom used my contractor style table saw. So I gave it and a bunch of miscellaneous tools to my son-in-law who was very happy to get them.
The only problem I had was cutting thin strips of ash hardwood that I use for trim. It was too narrow to clamp using the clamps to prevent the wood from moving while I was making the cut.
Then I ran across a DeWalt 745 bench saw display model that I was able to buy for $250. With a half a day dialing in all the adjustments and installing a better quality blade I'm getting cuts as smooth as I did with the contractors saw. The miter gage is worthless but I don't use it for crosscutting anyway. The rip fence is smooth and accurate enough that you don't need a tape measure to set it. With a vacuum hooked up to the dust port the dust pickup is very good. Also it stores under the bench. So I'm very happy.
The only problem I had was cutting thin strips of ash hardwood that I use for trim. It was too narrow to clamp using the clamps to prevent the wood from moving while I was making the cut.
Then I ran across a DeWalt 745 bench saw display model that I was able to buy for $250. With a half a day dialing in all the adjustments and installing a better quality blade I'm getting cuts as smooth as I did with the contractors saw. The miter gage is worthless but I don't use it for crosscutting anyway. The rip fence is smooth and accurate enough that you don't need a tape measure to set it. With a vacuum hooked up to the dust port the dust pickup is very good. Also it stores under the bench. So I'm very happy.
