want go into the festool but found its not as easy as i thought

[Wood_Slice]

How do I say this properly. Start ONLY with one of a kind/best in category tools. Rest are just an OCD itch you cant scratch without buying them.

From a woodworking perspective the only must have Festool tools at first would have to be the Track saw (TS 55/75), Domino without a doubt, Vacuums (i prefer the CT Midi), and a sander or two (ETS EC 125-150; Rotex, etc.

Honestly, the track saw there are a ton of alternative options now closest being the Makita. Sanders wise you also have the Mirka Deros a great alternative to the ETS EC/Rotex but actually costs more than Festool.

MFT is a great secondary choice. I got mine used from Craigslist but you can also make your own via the UJK Parf Guide.

Festool has a ton more tools but honestly they have alternatives that are good. For Drill/Driver and Impact Driver I actually prefer DeWalt, have tried Milwaukee but handle is too fat. Table saw well Festool owns Sawstop now.

Router and Tables a ton of other options.

 

[vkumar]

I would say just get the  game changers that Festool offers and go with other brands for other things. 
For example in the game changer category: Domino, the sanders (start of with RO90) , the track saw (TSC55) , the holey rails
Nice to have: MFT, Vaccum, routers (1400 to start)
Once addicted: more sanders, more routers.

There is a thread here about cordless drills.  Read it and decide if you want any Festool cordless drills or just stick to your Dewalt, Makita, Milwaukee.

 

[slavi.yordanov]

1.Can I get the OSC(OSCILLATING TOOL) for sanding? I never owned any pure sander before, and I love how versatile my Dewalt 20v oscillating tool is. I use it for sanding and flush cut and many other uses. Actually, I sanded a lot with the oscillating tool , even sanded half of my deck......and made many cuts with it. plus it's cordless. But I am not sure how this "sander" holds up in the future with more advanced things.

3.For the Makita connector set, is it the Makita 198885-7?

4.The T18E with batteries is really a steal, fixed chuck is kinda sucks but I already got CXS so at least I got something to use centrotec stuff. But my real question is what is this "TPC" percussion drill? Sorry English is not my native so I may not really fully get the point, is it just like a hammer drill like PDC? or more like a different version of impact-hammer high-tech drill? It really looks like just a PDC in a T18 case. BTW I love how the Milwaukee M18 Surge feels compare to normal impact, it's like from the future.

1. I have the cordless Vecturo, but I have never tried with a sanding pad. I don't see why it wouldn't work. It's my first multi-tool, and this thing is amazing. No vibration, very powerful. The only thing I don't like is the lack of light.

3. That's the one.

4. T18E is really the same drill as a regular T18. If the fixed chuck does not bother you, it's a great deal. The TPC is the successor to the PDC. Way more versatile and stronger than the T18. I would wait for that one if I was in your position. I have a C18, and I'm going to get the TPC for sure.

As far as tools to buy, I 100% recommend getting a vacuum with a bluetooth. I have the older MINI, it collects a decent amount and is very compact. Also the cordless TSC55 is great. Coupled with bluetooth batteries and bluetooth vac, would be joy to use. The bag also works surprisingly well.

If you are looking into the Rotex 125/150, look at Bosch' offering. Pretty much the same thing at half the price. Festool sandpaper lines up with the holes, and my MINI's hose fits perfectly on the dust port. The only downside is the power cable, compared to the Rotex. I wouldn't recommend that style of sander if you are mostly doing finish sanding. I'm remodeling my house, so the aggressive removal mode is very useful for me.

So my recommendation is MINI/MIDI/CT26, TSC55 Kit with 1400LR-32 rail, Vecturo OSC18 Kit, Rotex/Bosch/ETS125/EC125 (fits 150 pad too) if you are going to sand a lot. Wait for TPC if you need a drill.

 

[mino]

Other already answered most, so just a few:

1.Can I get the OSC(OSCILLATING TOOL) for sanding? I never owned any pure sander before, and I love how versatile my Dewalt 20v oscillating tool is. I use it for sanding and flush cut and many other uses. Actually, I sanded a lot with the oscillating tool , even sanded half of my deck......and made many cuts with it. plus it's cordless. But I am not sure how this "sander" holds up in the future with more advanced things.

The OSC is a great tool but it is no proper sander. You want at least one ETS series sander. The Vecturo can take the role of a delta sander eventually.

As the saying goes. Multitools are great (special) saws, acceptable (corner) sanders and meager cutters.

2.I have to admit the jigsaw was my most useless tool, not sure if there any difference with Festool. And this is the big concern stop me from buying the pro finish pack. Was originally thought about may be useful to make the deep cut with it but I don't think I really NEED it in the beginning.

One generally needs *some* jigsaw. But it is a "spare budget" tool for a hobbyist. Keep your cheap one and it should be fine. Once you have a proper plunge saw on hand, you will be able to judge yourself how much you want/need a better jigsaw.
Ah, and do not think of a jigsaw as "a tool to make deeper cuts". It *can* do these technically, but is the least suited for them out of all "saw" tool types. Jigsaw is really just for odd tasks once in a while like a hole for sink tubing etc. *)

5.The MFT DIY is a great idea because I was so worried about that unstable table, but the build-in rail is looking kinda essential.

You will want a guide square and a parallel guides set eventually. I did not mention it as it is something you can add easily and get by without if required.
Do not invest in a super-precision dog-base system on an MFT. It has its beauty but is valuable more for production-style usage. Parallel guides like the TSO ones are more universal and more accurate at the cost of a bit more setup time which is a non-issue for a hobbyist.

One last, if you do not have a good router, make sure to get one sooner rather than later in your buying order. Router is the most versatile tool in a wood shop. heck, I would say getting one before a plunge saw even as one can get sheets cut to size externally but offloading router tasks is a much more tricky proposition.

*) Yes, the Trion / PS300 is a beast which can actually cut straight, but still no "deep cutting tool" or a tracksaw alternate.

 

[DeformedTree]

One generally needs *some* jigsaw. But it is a "spare budget" tool for a hobbyist. Keep your cheap one and it should be fine. Once you have a proper plunge saw on hand, you will be able to judge yourself how much you want/need a better jigsaw.
Ah, and do not think of a jigsaw as "a tool to make deeper cuts". It *can* do these technically, but is the least suited for them out of all "saw" tool types. Jigsaw is really just for odd tasks once in a while like a hole for sink tubing etc. *)

Jigsaw is a tool of last resort.  Oscillating tools have made jigsaws even less used.  Jigsaws have a place, but they are a generally awful tool. Nothing will convince me that a different brand/model will ever make them suddenly work right.  I try to find a way to avoid them.  Plunge saws, routers, etc. There is usually a better way.

 

[mino]

Jigsaw is a tool of last resort.  Oscillating tools have made jigsaws even less used.  Jigsaws have a place, but they are a generally awful tool. Nothing will convince me that a different brand/model will ever make them suddenly work right.  I try to find a way to avoid them.  Plunge saws, routers, etc. There is usually a better way.

Nah, they are a great tool ... of last resort.  [big grin]

I hate the Carvex when I need to use it ... well, less then I hated my $30 "Chinasaw".

The only thing related to jigsaws I do hate more is to not have (one) around when there is a need for (one). Happens to me about once in a month. Annoying. [cool]

 

[AlexThePalex]

My jigsaw is one of my most used tools and definitely the most used saw.

It is not a precision tool and certainly not to be used for fine carpentry or furniture making, but when you're building or remodelling a house it is exactly the right tool for the job as there are plenty of rough cuts to be made.

 

[ChuckS]

How important is a jigsaw in my shop?

I own a B&D jigsaw from Walmart or the like. So go figure if I'd be willing to spend my money on a Carvex (I've used it briefly). Like Birdhunter, I think the best jigsaw in the market is still only marginally better than mine in terms of cutting results. I cut most curves on the band saw or scrollsaw.

However, it's still an essential tool since you can bring the tool to the work when it's too awkward to do otherwise, say, with a 6-foot plank. It's in the same category as cordless drills for me -- indispensable, but I wouldn't reach deep into my pocket to acquire them. 

 

[DeformedTree]

My jigsaw is one of my most used tools and definitely the most used saw.

It is not a precision tool and certainly not to be used for fine carpentry or furniture making, but when you're building or remodelling a house it is exactly the right tool for the job as there are plenty of rough cuts to be made.

Are Saw Zaws (reciprocating saws) popular over there?  Milwaukee M18 Hack Zaw is an absolutely wonderful tool when you are remodeling.

I own more than one jig saw, they get some use, but over time, other tools have become a better answer.  Obviously, when you need to make non-round holes in the middle of things, jigsaws are the main tool, but I've found myself other tools more and more.  They need to create a plunging jigsaw.

 

[Ron B]

Are Saw Zaws (reciprocating saws) popular over there?  Milwaukee M18 Hack Zaw is an absolutely wonderful tool when you are remodeling.

I found another use for battery reciprocating saws last fall. I had to dig some long trench lines in my backyard that is heavily wooded so I hit lots of roots.  In the past I would use a grub hoe (pioneer tool) to hack out the roots.  This time I just used the battery operated reciprocating saw to cut the roots.  The blade is disposable  so I did not mind getting it in the dirt.  I tend to have two types of tools-junk beater tools that I don't mind doing grubby work with, and then my quality tools.  I have to hid my good chisels because I caught my wife once digging a hole in the yard with one of my wood chisels.  There are those tools you loan out, and those you hide.   

 

[DeformedTree]

yes,  saw zaws outside are something not enough folks know about.  Tree trimming, root cutting when digging, they are great for.

 

[FestitaMakool]

Recipro saws, tiger saws, demolition saws, are more or less mandatory over here.
Me, it’s one of the problem solvers I wouldn’t be without. Even cutting porous concrete blocks at a reasonably accuracy. I’ve got two, on 12V and 18V. The smaller 12V accepts jig saw blades  [cool] - extremely useful when used in tight corners - only alternative would be the air powered ones, mainly used in body shops. Jig saws have all a much too long tail.. I always look for the ones with shortest bodies.
Want to cut better, straighter cuts with your jig saw? - try the thickest blade you can fit your saw. Festool’s are generally thicker than most. And when looking at Mafell’s really good blades, the others seems like shims in comparison.

 

[Cheese]

My jigsaw is one of my most used tools and definitely the most used saw.

It is not a precision tool and certainly not to be used for fine carpentry or furniture making, but when you're building or remodelling a house it is exactly the right tool for the job as there are plenty of rough cuts to be made.

Boy that's interesting Alex...in the States I'd say for home repair/remodeling the Sawzall is by far the most used saw. Studs, floors, joists, walls, pipes, conduit, 4x4's, 6x6's, cast iron pipe, window & door openings, replacing wood siding, aluminum & steel angle, small trees, small tree roots, I even put a stainless blade on one and cut a coconut in half.

Here are a couple of battery powered ones from the shop but I also have a corded Super Sawzall. I always keep a cordless Sawzall in the garage for yard chores or removing the odd muffler/tailpipe exhaust system.

[attachimg=1]

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[attachimg=3]

 

[DeformedTree]

Keep a couple of these scattered about the house.  Better than a swiss army knife.

 

[Crazyraceguy]

By the title of the thread, I was expecting something very different. (Availability)

I would say that this is very much a case of "it depends" upon what you actually do with tools.
A re-modeler, cabinetmaker, DIYer, etc all have different needs.
I work in the custom department of a large cabinet shop, so I need to be ready for nearly anything. My start with Festool was with the things that are essentially exclusive to them. The DF500 Domino was first and still is one of my most used tools. Next came the RO90, for it's versatility. After that I got a CXS to replace the Bosch pocket driver and drill. I sold off several of the Bosch 12v line at that time, including a dedicated right-angle drill/driver. This bought the CXS which could do all of the same things.
After that the ETS EC 125 sort of replaced a pneumatic palm style sander.
At that point, I was pretty well set because it seemed that I had everything else covered with other brands of tools. Then came the dreaded shop fire, destroying everything. This was the opportunity to re-evaluate. It's easier to justify different alternatives when you have nothing versus the idea of up-grading. Moving to a temporary facility with a lot more space had an influence too.
At that time I added a TS55 and built a cutting table, since I had the room to make it work. I replaced all of the previous router collection (other brands) and the OF1400 that I had just bought the day before the fire and never got to even use. I had a Makita Jigsaw before and was never really happy with it, so PS420. I like it much better. It's not an everyday tool, but I certainly don't see it as useless as some of the others had said. The RO125 was just an expansion that I got tying to improve dust collection while sanding and the OF1010 kind of an indulgence.
I'm hesitant to get a Vecturo because I'm not already in the battery platform and don't really "need" it that badly. I had a Fein Multimaster before and used it some, but not as much as I though I would.
So, for me, at a bare minimum starting point, Domino, RO, TS55, Parf system and dogs.
It's very much a YMMV thing though. Lots of people don't see the point/need of the Domino, but I would have a hard time functioning without one. And after doing this work for more than 15 years without a track saw, it would be hard to do without that now too.

 

[afish]

Im sort of the same as crazy race guy.  I typically only buy Festool products for the items I cant get elsewhere. Mainly a Domino, conturo, LR32, MFK, and sanders. Track saw too if you dont have one I use the Makita one but I have used the Festool one and liked it. I like the Festool sanders except if I ever needed a rotex type sander I would get the Bosh GET-75 or 55 otherwise the ETS, DTS, are my go to sanders, I'm starting to think about adding the LS too.  I will be getting the new planex2 at some point as well if it ever gets to the US. Otherwise you will most likely catch me with a dewalt in my hands.  I will say the newer cordless Dewalt barrel grip jigsaw is awesome.  Best jigsaw I have ever had I like everything about it.  Even though I have never used the Festool one it would be a hard sell to get me to stop using the Dewalt one. I know some rave about the cordless drills but Im not convinced been using a cordless everyday for 30 years so I have been accustomed to the unrefined workings of the middle class drills I guess.  Its all about your needs and whats missing.  I cant think of one dewalt tool I have that I would trade for a festool version other than the sanders. The Dewalt sanders feel big and clunky now and never get used. I keep the cordless random orbit in my go bag just incase and the Festool stays back at the shop.   

Oh if you think its tough now just wait until you go to try and buy some.  Just about everything is sold out everywhere. I think you will have plenty of time to sort it out.

 

[Gerald Yang]

I am not that concerned about the cost because I am just hobbyist, which mean I am not making money with it , so the return will not be that important.  but I still got a budget for starting . the T18E with two batteries seems like a sweet deal and I can use the batteries for TSC 55 tracksaw. I got a old router other brand sitting around so I can use it for now. at least I can use T18E and track saw to get everything started, but I need to but a 55"track at least.
So maybe T18E set + TSC55 + a rail lr32 and maybe an OSC use as sander/saw will be good enough for me? I really love my dewalt oscillating tool, but I already sold it.
from here i think I can just make my own MFT table juse just my old router or a drill guide.

and future upgrade will be the vac(cuz I have a ridgid Vac) upgrade, the domino, and waiting the TPC drill and cordless router

 

[mino]

from here i think I can just make my own MFT table juse just my old router or a drill guide.

I did exactly so and cannot be happier.

I have taken my old Narex (OF1010 motor in a simpler housing) and dedicated it to the LR32 by permanently screwing it in. Love it.
No hassle moving it around and refitting, etc.

IMO modifying the plate to accept your old router is a very valid approach. If you get a better/other router in future, you can dedicate your old one to the LR32 system so you avoid the hassle re-calibrating it all the time.

One thing you will want is a set of the dowel/drill bits like these:https://www.festoolcanada.com/acces...28f-64fc9013b387&excludeInactiveProducts=True

The Festool ones use the European 8 mm shank, so if you have only 1/4" in your existing router, you may need to get these from CMT or other vendor.

 

[afish]

I would not buy a MFT but I dont do much site work the only benifit is they are more portable but there are portable options out there for DIY.  I built my own 4x8 MFT and it worked great.  At first I used parf MK2 but having done that I would not repurchase it.  For my needs a stiff piece of 8020 for a fence and the dashboard track hinge on a DIY MFT is the way to go.  As long as your hinge is square to the fence the dog holes only need to be close.  I like the MFT bench for clamping but Im not a fan of dogs for cutting.  I got way better cuts with a fence and track hinge.

Make sur you you get the holy rail its the same price or only a few dollars more. truthfully I dont understand why festool doesnt just make all the rails holy.

 

[Crazyraceguy]

I will say the newer cordless Dewalt barrel grip jigsaw is awesome.  Best jigsaw I have ever had I like everything about it.  Even though I have never used the Festool one it would be a hard sell to get me to stop using the Dewalt one.
  I cant think of one dewalt tool I have that I would trade for a festool version other than the sanders. The Dewalt sanders feel big and clunky now and never get used. 

One of the guys at work has one and he loves it too. He got it after asking my advice about barrel grip saws in general, because that's what my  Carvex is.

I have always used pneumatic sanders because of the form factor. I just don't like the tall feeling of electrics. When the ETS EC came along basically in that shape, I was sold. The Rotex sanders are so completely different that they take some getting used to anyway. I use them two-handed, more like a grinder or buffer.