What would you do? VAC SYS or multiple smaller tools

[online421]

I have about $1500 USD credit instore for my next Festool toy.

I already have:
Domino XL, used almost everyday,
HK55, rarely used.
OF1010, used as often as the Domino
LEX3, this is pneumatic sander, I dont have an electric sander, dont mind to have one, I dont want to switch on the compressor to do some light sanding
and CT36.

The Vac Sys seems to be a valuable equipment to add to the workshop, I do domino and sanding a lot at the moment I have to make do with what I have.  Life can go on without the VAC Sys. but so are a lot of things can go on without a Festool....

Would you get a Sys Vac if you are in my situation? or would you get the following instead:
1. new electric sander with battery, RTSC/ETSC range.
2. MFS400
3. remainder credit spend on accessories such as clamps, domino, connectors.

 

[Mario Turcot]

If your main activity is sanding, get a sander you will enjoy using first.

The VAC-SYS for sanding is fantastic. I don't have a bench vise nor an MFT table yet so I decided to go with the VAC-SYS. After less then two months I have no regret, love it.

I just bought the narrow cup for small piece and holding material is no more a problem. Initially I bought the single base unit but acquire a second base a month later. Wish I knew, I would have save $100  [sad]

 

[tjbnwi]

Vac Sys, it will be another used every day tool.

Tom

 

[infer]

If you have space for a dedicated cart for the vac sys then I recommend one. If tight on space the stiff hoses and non removable release foot pedal become a chore. Lately I have mine mounted on a wall for vertical clamping glue ups for sanding. Extremely tight on space.

 

[Cheese]

I'd approach it a bit differently.

If I had $1500 to spend, I'd purchase Festool 203148 for $990. That's a clamping module, vacuum pump & a foot valve. That's enough to get you set up with a single head clamping system and see how well you like it . The standard vacuum cup that comes with this unit is capable of holding up to 66#.

The other $500 can be spent on the sander of your choice. Personally I'd go for the ETS EC 125 and also purchase a 150mm pad to use with it OR a cordless ETSC 125.

I have both and they are my go-to sanders for 90% of all tasks. The ETSC sander is significantly less aggressive than the ETS EC. 

 

[denovo]

VAC SYS hands down. 

You will use it daily and wish you had bought it earlier as it saves a ton of time and frustration.  Everyone who has borrowed mine goes out and buys there own after returning it.

 

[simonh]

Another vote for the VAC SYS.

 

[online421]

Vac Sys it is then.

We dont have similar promotion here, so it is $1580 USD after tax for the Vac Sys.

 

[mschmidt10k]

+1 on the Vac Sys. I love mine and use it constantly.

 

[cpw]

If you don't have an MFT, I might consider one of those plus clamping elements and some dogs instead of the VAC-SYS.

I have both, and use the MFT more.  But the VAC-SYS is faster; I think just not quite as versatile.

 

[jeh]

If those are your choices then the VAC SYS. I have seen it, want it, but not pulled the trigger yet. Need to prioritize funds to make it happened. The Mafell MF26cc put a hurting on my wallet, but it's usefulness for me helped me get over the initial sticker shock.

 

[TomGadwa1]

The VAC-SYS is a great system!!! The set price which includes two clamping modules, pump, hoses and foot release has now had the price reduced to where it is a fantastic bargain. You will not be disappointed!!

 

[harry_]

The Vac SYS is quite likely the most under rated tool in the catalog. I don't think I could be happier with the purchase.

 

[Laminator]

I can not imagine going back to working without this tool. 

 

[MrToolJunkie]

+1 on the vac sys. Awesome tool. Scored a recon and it looked brand new.

 

[rst]

Buy the module/modules without the pump.  Any HVAC pump will work...vacuum is vacuum, no matter how created.  Just change out the inlet connectors to standard Miltons.  I started out making vac jigs 30 some years ago using my Sears vac, went from there to using the inlet on my air compressor and graduated to a surplus HVAC pump that I bought for $15.000 20 years ago, I think the price  was because the unit is 220v.  I still use that pump.  It has worked my jigs, the Virutex units that I bought before the Festools that I use now.

 

[TomGadwa1]

I recommend getting the full blown set which includes both clamping modules and hoses, coupling etc. Look at it this way with the price reduction they are pretty much giving the vacuum pump for no charge. Compared to what I invested. The other nice thing about this vacuum unit is the gauge that displays the quality of gripping one has. Green indicates a solid grip and one can safely process the work piece. If the gauge is in the red it is not safe to process the work piece. I hope this helps!

 

[Scorpion]

Honestly?  No, I would not recommend A Vac Sys. Of all of the Festool tools I’ve purchased, it’s the one I can do without.  If say the only caveat to that statement is if you have space to leave it set up full time.  My biggest problem with it is setup.  When I could use it, I usually can manage without it and do so saving the time it takes to set it up.  When I do set it up, it’s a nice to have. 

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

 

[Laminator]

Good point Scorpian about having it set up at all times, as I would hate to break it down and pack it up daily.  I have it set up (all the time) at the end of a 10' work bench and it is the Conturos best friend.

 

[simonh]

I know it's expensive but I use the Festool MFT table adapter.  I don't have room for a permanent setup but I found the flip to feature on the adaptor to be invaluable. When the table is full of tools and other clutter I just push aside enough to get the VacSys up and because its higher than the table I can keep on working. It's also invaluable for things like high gloss/flat matt furniture panels where you don't want to be scraping them around on a workbench.  I find with most Festool kit that I usually end up buying all the optional extras and in this case the different size vacuum pods all have their uses when working on varying projects.