Replies

1. 
   nikkiwood | Feb 06, 2007 09:04am | #1

   I had a barrel grip for years, and always thought I had made the wrong choice.

   A couple of years ago, I bought a second saw -- this one a top handle model.

   For me, at least, I was wrong. I find the barrel grip much easier to manuever, especially around curves.

   ********************************************************
   "It is what we learn after we think we know it all, that counts."

   John Wooden 1910-

2. 
   SARGEgrinder47 | Feb 06, 2007 07:18pm | #2

   I have the barrel grip and wouldn't replace with anything but a barrel grip. Some prefer the top handle. I think it comes down to results you have achieved if you have used both and what feels more comfortable to you in your hand. I would handle both before you buy.

   What I've found personally is the barrel grip has a lower center of gravity and you're controlling hand is closer to the stock giving me much more precise control of the saw's cutting action. That is just what I personally experienced after using both. Experiences will vary.

   Regards...

   Sarge.. jt

3. 
   mike_b | Feb 06, 2007 09:02pm | #3

   KLJ,

   I've owned the top handle model for about 20 years and have always wished I had bought the barrel grip. The top handle is OK, but I agree with others who have mentioned greater control as an advantage of the barrel grip design. Unfortunately, Bosch makes a very good saw, and mine just won't die, so I guess I'm a top grip kind of guy for the foreseeable future.

   Mike

4. 
   merlvern | Feb 06, 2007 09:12pm | #4

   for me it just "feels" better to have your hand closer to the work pc.....feels more stable and you have more control. also, less likely to rock back and forth when pushing thru the piece.

5. 
   PADDYDAHAT | Feb 07, 2007 01:22am | #5

   Ken, no contest, the barrel gives ya control, control, control. You will find that it gets warm when over loaded in hickory or hard maple, still cuts great, just take a break and cool her off. I have used both types. A 1950's barrel of all alunimium case with exposed brushes* till I wore through the sole plate, rivited angle to repair but it was not firm enough. Bought a big time big amp, scrolling variable speed top handle and swore every time I used it, broke blades and lost the cut line. Bought the Bosch barrel 4/5 years ago and it's a joy to use. All the best, Paddy

    

   *ps. for the "old guys" Remember when all the corded tools were built solid? Metal cases, replace the bearings/brushes for under $10, cut 6" off the cord, refit it and go back to work! Now ya need an appointment with an engineer and special driver bits to open the case? So much for progress but they do work well. pfh

6. 
   stantheman | Feb 07, 2007 01:27am | #6

   barrel grip hard to handle if you have small hands. 

7. 
   geilerzimmermann | Feb 07, 2007 02:51am | #7

   Definitly more precise control with a barrel grip

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