TS55 or HKC55

[priseconstruction]

I think I already know the answer to this but I'm asking the experts anyways.  I'm trying to decide between the two saws mentioned above. I will be using it for both general construction cutting 2x material and using for finishing work as well trimming doors ext. 

Thanks guys

 

[Brice Burrell]

First welcome to the FOG!

If you expect to use the saw hard I'd recommend the corded version.  The cordless has decent power and run time for only using one 18v battery.  However, the cordless doesn't have the same speed and a little less torque than the corded. 

 

[ear3]

Are you going to be doing a lot of site work? Not sure the HKC is better than the ts55 as an all around saw unless you foresee a bunch of situations where you need to work away from the miter saw.

 

[Holmz]

Reno and Brice's words seem wise...

If you are anywhere near a woodcraft or other Festool sales place, then having a fondle of the tools on some scraps of wood that you bring... Well that could be an ideal way to get a sense of what works best for your needs... Which I suspect may be the HKC, but I dunno.

 

[demographic]

I have both and since I bought my HKC I use that way more than my TS55.
For cutting doors down its ideal used with my 1400 guiderail but if I'm ripping loads of pipe boxing for instance I use the TS55 connected to my extractor.

I do general carpentry from concrete formwork through to finish carpentry and barfitting so its quite varied.

For me the HKC is more of a game changer.

 

[DanielOB]

When work with tss you have to mark the cut with a pencil, line up the rail and cut. For studs work you will not make it. Hkc is much faster with acceptable accuracy and to most picky guys. [cool]