Replies

1. 
   JJV | Feb 16, 2007 12:23am | #1

   I have that setup too.  I would assume that with a good blade you'd get good cuts but I don't think it will be perfect.  I use mine for rough cuts or framing lumber.  It's a really nice cordless saw, but it's just that-a cordless saw.  I wouldn't expect to break down sheet stock for a kitchen's worth of cabinets with it.

   What are you using now for these ultra-clean cuts you get in sheet goods?

   I'm using the stock blade but I would think any 6 1/2" blade from a decent blade mfr. would be pretty good.  I haven't even looked into it so I'm not sure who to recommend.  I would check the really good blade folks-I know Ridge Carbide makes a staggering number of blades, and they may have something.

    

   Maybe someday I'll know a little something.

1. 
   EBrandt | Feb 16, 2007 12:57am | #3

   Hi JJV-

   I suspect the 5800rpm of a 7-1/4 sidewinder is what makes a difference compared to the 3700 rpm of the 6-1/2 cordless.

   As for what I'm using now for my 'ultra clean cuts' in sheet goods... well, once the full sheet is broken down, the forrest hi-at on my TS does a great job...

   Right now for cutting the full sheets, I have some plywood carbide blade from a big box store (Oldham maybe?, < $10 anyhow) on my corded sidewinder. With a shop-made guide it does a passable job on plywood and a very nearly passable job on melamine. I'd just like to get that passable/nearly passable results from the cordless. Dunno if that's wishful thinking or not.

   I suspect my workflow probably won't change much when top quality is the utmost concern - cut the full sheet apart to 1" oversize pieces, then trim to exact size on the TS. I have no desire to muscle a full sheet thru the TS.

   E.

1. 
   JJV | Feb 16, 2007 01:07am | #4

   Gotcha.  I thought you were saying you got finish cuts with your circ saw-my bad. 

   Well, I think it will be fine for the occasional trim cut, esp. if you're finishing on the TS with a  Forrest.

   Of course, if you want to go there, you can always get an EZ Guide or a Festool saw...  :-)

    

   Maybe someday I'll know a little something.

   Edited 2/16/2007 9:26 am ET by JJV

1. 
   EBrandt | Feb 16, 2007 01:46am | #5

   festool...

   ...from what I have read that sounds like something that could be quite addictive. Its best that I stay away from things like that... I already have several other shop related addictions, the demons of which I battle on a far too regular basis.

   thanks for the advice just the same...maybe I'll go check them out...

   E.

2. 
   BruceS | Feb 16, 2007 12:37am | #2

   Not knowing where you live.  I would let that new battery warm up to room temperature before charging it. (24 hours)

   Work Safe,  Count to 10 when your done for the day !!

   Bruce S.