Replies

1. 
   Knotscott | Jul 22, 2012 11:15am | #1

   Eric - With good alignment and good blade selection, a full size saw like the PCB270TS that has a belt drive 1hp to 2hp induction motor is generally capable of very good work for a hobbyist.  IMHO that particular model doesn't represent the best in that price range....the fence isn't one of the better examples, but it also has a plastic elevation gear that is a problem waiting to show itself. Some folks  are getting good service from that saw, but since there are other viable choices in that class, I'd look to something like the Steel City 35990C, Ridgid R4512, or Craftsman 21833.  Note that some of the R4512's and nearly identical Cman 21833 have had an alignment problem.....some go out of alignment when the blade is raised or lowered.  They've fixed most of those issues, but be sure the one you get isn't plagued with that problem....the advantage of buying new is that you can exchange or return it if there's a problem.  

   A good full size used contractor saw or hybrid is also a viable option of the right deal comes along.  A $600 budget should buy a nice saw.....maybe even a used 3hp cabinet saw.  Note that any saw with a motor larger than a "true" 2hp should be run on a 220v circuit.   

   Here's a link to a good article about choosing a table saw. 

2. 
   RalphBarker | Jul 22, 2012 11:43am | #2

   Lineage

   One thing to think about in your quest for a new table saw is "lineage" - that is, the history of the manufacturer and where their expertice lies. The "old" Porter Cable developed its reputation by making quality electric hand tools - routers, sanders, drills, etc. They left floor machines to their associate, and occasionally sister company, Delta. Both companies have gone through a series of corporate acquisitions, and both were acquired by Black & Decker a few years back. During that time, shortly before B&D was purchased by Stanley Works, B&D started shifting product lines between its subsidiaries, including DeWalt. Apparently, B&D wanted DeWalt to be the "pro" line, and pushed Porter Cable toward the consumer-grade end of the spectrum. Since then, Delta has been sold off, and is, once again, a stand-alone company.

   I've casually looked at the Porter Cable TS at Lowes. Like many tools these days, it is an "import" machine of generic design. It is probably OK for many users, but is obviously at the "light" end of the spectrum in terms of power and durability. For a new machine in that price range, you might also look at the Bosch saws. I don't have any personal experience with them, either, but the build quality seems to be a little higher.

   For the same kind of money, one can often find an old, used Delta Unisaw or Powermatic that only needs a little TLC to restore it to good condition. That, of course, depends on your geographic location, and the local vibrancy of the used market, not to mention your ability to transport a machine, once found.

   In my opinion, a 3hp saw is probably the ideal for light to moderate work. Folks who frequently cut 8/4 hardwoods would probably opt for a 5hp machine, though. That said, I've "gotten by" with a 1 1/2hp 9" (yep, 9" not 10") Delta contractor saw for more than 40 years. For a new saw with more power, you might also consider the Grizzly Industrial line. http://www.grizzly.com/index.aspx  They seem to have a fairly good reputation for "imported" machines, and offer 3hp cabinet saws in the $1200 range.

   Ultimately, the choice is a personal one. But there is something to be said for saving for the machine that you know you'll eventually want.

3. 
   wericha | Jul 22, 2012 07:38pm | #3

   One thing you didn't mention is looking at used saws.  Watch Craigslist for bargains.  In the last few weeks I've seen at least 3 unisaws for less than $500.  A good quality saw will cost you about as much as most of the offerings from the big box stores, but you'll have so much more saw.

4. 
   Knotscott | Jul 23, 2012 07:34am | #4

   Still with us Eric?

5. 
   eao2012 | Jul 23, 2012 07:20pm | #5

   Thanks for all the useful advice! I will certainly look at some conctactor grade saws seeing that they are more in my price range. I've looked on craigslist but because East Texas is so isolated, there's not too many good offers out there :-/ I actually talked to a friend of mine on Sunday and he says that he just bought a Grizzly table saw for a little over 600 and apparently it does well cutting through all types of hardwoods and is quite precise! 

   I am a big fan of Bosch but the only Bosch table saw that I have found is the portable, work-site saw and I would be somewhat uneasy about purchasing a table saw with the types of supports that it has..what do ya'll think?

1. 
   Knotscott | Jul 23, 2012 09:48pm | #6

   IMHO the Bosch is top of the heap for portables, but as good as it is, you'd be giving up a lot when compared to a decent full size stationary saw.  If you don't need the portability, there's really no advantage in getting one'.   

   I don't believe Grizzly has any new stationary saws for near the $600 mark, though they do have a couple near $800, plus s/h.  

1. 
   eao2012 | Jul 24, 2012 12:59am | #7

   Yea, I will not be moving it around any at all so I guess I will just be looking for a stationary one. Hopefully I'll find one that I like soon so I can get to work! haha

   Thanks for all the help guys :)

2. 
   RalphBarker | Jul 24, 2012 10:39am | #8

   portable vs. fixed base

   I think this question goes back to how and on what you'll be using the saw. The size of the table (plus extensions) matters, as does the length of the arbor (e.g. will it take a full-width dado set?).

   But, if you'll be working on relative3ly small pieces, the Bosch work-site saw might be OK. It can always be put on a heavy fixed base or bench for greater stability. A stepped bench can also work for this purpose, where the surface of the bench is even with the surface of the saw. Leveling bolts on the bottom of the saw will allow fine tuning.

   Ultimately, however, there's nothing like a big old (cast iron) table. Take a look at this beauty:  http://forums.delphiforums.com/n/mb/message.asp?webtag=burl&msg=794.23

3. 
   wericha | Jul 24, 2012 01:54pm | #9

   Depending on how deep in East Texas you are, a trip to Dallas could save you serious money.  The saws I mentioned have all been in the Dallas area.

   I'd certainly look at the Grizzly saws, I've heard a lot of good reviews.

6. 
   ndmatt | Aug 01, 2012 12:54pm | #10

   I've got the Bosch 4100 Table Saw and I can tell you it's a great performer.  Like you mentioned, the base isn't ideal for a workshop.  I solved that by making my own base for it.  This killed two birds with one stone because I can keep all my spare blades, jigs, hold downs etc stored on the base.

   I equipped mine with a thin kerf blade and it's done everything I need it to.  It's also built for dust collection so that's a breeze.

   My only gripe is that the miter gauge slots are slightly wider that 3/4".  You'll have to make your own miter gauges to use that feature.

   Matt

7. 
   Mcfarmer | Aug 01, 2012 02:20pm | #11

   Most of the high school shops are getting rid of Unisaws and Powermatic cabinet saws for the Sawstops. The retailers selling the Sawstops are giving $150 trade in for the Unisaws. Might check a few schools in the area. Two of our local schools did that, I don't need another saw so I let them go. They generally have good fences, the one I was most tempted by  had a Vega.