Replies

1. 
   belizewoodworker | Sep 03, 2005 04:47am | #1

   I suggest that you do some searches of messages on this site as there is a huge amount of great advice available. I was looking for information about hand planes, particularly lie-neilsen and found all the information after a search with just lie-nielsen in the search box.
   I started my workshop about a year ago and a good heavy table saw was my first big purchase, a Delta Unisaw.
   As far a quality, price is inevitably a guide. I would not buy any tools without handling them first. If you are near a 'Woodcraft' store you will get lots of good advice and they stock lots of quality tools.
   The Taunton magazine reviewing tools is good too.
   recently there have been many questions along similar lines, just browse this site and then ask more specific questions.
   Good luck.

2. 
   mike4244 | Sep 03, 2005 04:53am | #2

   Because  you are on a limited budget and want quality tools, used machinery may be the answer. I would not buy used saws or other large machinery from a shop that is still in business. Many times the machine was crap to begin with, or needs extensive work. This being said, if the price is right for a particular machine and you can replace bearings,etc, then it could be a good buy.

   Many times a good machine can be gotten from individuals that are upgrading to a larger machine.Yard sales may get you smaller tools like drills,routers, handtools.

   A friend bought a Porter Cable router with all three bases,standard,plunge and D handle at a garage sale for $35.00.All it needed was brushes. Check your local newspaper  for tool and machinery sales.

   mike

1. 
   qtsam2 | Sep 03, 2005 05:06am | #3

   Thank you. Let me try this a different way. I was thinking of getting ryobi table saw and possibly their joiner to start. I could get the table saw for like 150$ and the joiner for 100$ at home depot. Not that I am some huge Ryobi fan but I was also considering their 2 hp router as well for 100$. On the box of the router it has a top choice or tool award from i think popular woodworking. I know these aren't top of the line but are they good starters?

1. 
   WillGeorge | Sep 03, 2005 05:35am | #4

   ryobi table saw .. I HAD one! For the money it worked GREAT!I sided at least two houses and made many cabinets with that so called 'piece of junk'I have heard in here.. NO it is not a cabinet saw BUT I did not buy a Cabinet saw!I have several Ryobi routers that I have had for several years that work 'just fine' and I usually use my big-box EL-Cheepo bits in them!I USE to have the money to buy the GOOD stuff but never 'HAD' to...Junk is junk BUT some Junk works OK!

1. 
   qtsam2 | Sep 03, 2005 05:49am | #5

   that makes me feel alot better because after 1) looking around 2) how much I can afford 3) at this point in what I want to use it for I feel confident buying these three tools NEW for 350$ total. Thanks!

1. 
   WillGeorge | Sep 03, 2005 06:01am | #6

   HAY! Just me so don't get mad if ya not satisfied.. I just was!Good luck with your project..And NOTHING WRONG with good tools! Just for many things a little less will work if you are determined to 'do it right'..Get the good stuff when ya really LOVE woodworkin'!

2. 
   Walker1 | Sep 03, 2005 06:18am | #8

       I think Ryobi makes decent economical tools. I know a lot of tradesmen that use them professionally, and don't hesitate to buy  Ryobi again. It's hard to argue with that.

                                                                    Walker1 

3. 
   PlaneWood | Sep 03, 2005 06:07am | #7

   Well you know, a few good hand saws, a few good planes, some chisels, a drill, a sander (or scraper) and you'd be on your way.  Yeah, I know these tools would be slow, but that's how you learn the mechanics and learn how to work with wood.  (and learn how to take care of your tools)  Save your money to purchase the wood!

   PlaneWood by Mike_in_Katy (maker of fine sawdust!)
   PlaneWood