Another Cabinet Saw question-powermatic 66 vs. newer steel city?
drlehnig
| Posted in Power Tools and Machinery on
I have found myself trying to make a final decision on a new table saw. I had it narrowed down to a mid 90’s powermatic 66 with 50″fence used for 1K. I was completly set on the saw. Until today when a friend called and wants to sell his 3 year old steel city 3hp cabinet saw for 500 (with 50″ fence and mobile base). I am still leaning towards the powermatic but want others opinion on which saw is the better choice. I am a hobist and spend about 15-20 hours a week in my shop.
I understand that SC is a new company without the reputation of PM but it is half the price and I could put 500 towards blades and wood. Any input would be appreciated.
-dustin
Replies
The positive for the steel city is that it may have a riving knife. Otherwise everything favors the Powermatic
thanks
I came down to the same decision and went with the powermatic. It is sititing in my garage right now, waiting for the electrician to instal 240v.
There's no comparison in quality between a USA made Powermatic from the 90's and and any "so called" cabinet saw being built today. If you look inside the saws, you will see the major difference. The trunnion castings on the Powermatic tools of that era are much beefier. The machining of parts is more accurate, and because of this, the 66 operates more smoothly, and with less vibration.
That 66 comes from the era when Powermatic was polishing their tops to a mirror shine. Besides looking great, this also meant that the tops were flatter than what you find being sold today, as well. This will show dividends in your joinery, when your angles, tenons, etc.....cut on the saw are accurate.
Jeff
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