Replies

1. 
   hammer1 | Mar 09, 2006 04:54am | #1

   I wouldn't make a big deal out of it, Jerry. Many of us started with anything we could get our hands on. As soon as you buy the ultimate saw, they'll improve and modify the model. If you purchase something that you don't like, you can always sell it and try again. It may be a good idea to find a used saw, learn how to use it and upgrade when the time is right. A portable model may be a good choice for your situation. Something like a Bosch, Makita, even a Ridgid will get you started without breaking the bank.

   Beat it to fit / Paint it to match

2. 
   AntzyClancy | Mar 09, 2006 10:48pm | #2

   Given you space limitations, I would stick with hand tools and small projects.  A sturdy bench should be your first priority.  IMHO.

   Good luck,

   Todd

3. 
   bones | Mar 10, 2006 01:12am | #3

   Hey, I started out in an apartment. I had a couple of my dad's hand tools, and an old skil worm drive saw.  I was poor as Jobes turkey. I bought a lowes brand tabletop table saw.   The fence stunk, but I managed to make do. It took a lot of set up time and I had to always do test cuts to make sure it was in alingment.  I then bought my first house and the only space I had was a corner of a basement. It was maybe 12x12. I bought a Sears RAS, then a  Shopsmith (still have it for now). The shop smith is nice and compact and on wheels, and was multiple machines in one. Once again, a lot of set up time switching in between, but at the end of the day, it did the job.  When I managed to move to a house with a two car garage and my financial situation improved, I started buying individual pieces again.  I have a Grizzly tablesaw and 17" bandsaw that I like a lot that run on 220, but I could use the shopsmith again. It's just nice to set the fence and know that if the tape says 7" it will cut at 7". 

   Look at your space and be realistic. What is your power supply like in the shed? If you can only get 110, then your options are a little less, but still very doable.  Also think about what you want to make in your shop.  My first project was a step stool. Boy did the folks in the apartment below me get ticked.  I guess what I'm trying to say is look at your budget, space, and power. and go from there.  Just my two cents worth. 

4. 
   zorrosdens | Mar 10, 2006 01:49am | #4

   The Rigid is a very nice and strong setup as is the Bosch on the newer stand.... they will fold and go against the wall when not being used or use the table for just that.  If you want to go bit more try the powermatic contractors saw with the besmyier fence....very nice, but won't fold up, probably not for you.

   If you want to go less expensive the Makita 10" mentioned is great, if a bit noisier, but a very good and the lightest pro portable going.  You can build a table and outfeed, or more compact, get the Rigid support stand...it's the best IMO.   Good Luck deciding aand then enjoying the feel of building something with a machine involved. 

5. 
   forestgirl | Mar 10, 2006 08:30pm | #5

   Ditto to the direction zorrosdens is sending you in.  A quality portable saw used by contractors everywhere every day.

   forestgirl -- you can take the girl out of the forest, but you can't take the forest out of the girl ;-) 
   

1. 
   Jerrycee11 | Mar 10, 2006 10:43pm | #6

   Thanks to all who responded to my plea.  You have all been very helpful.  I will take your advise into consideration and depending on my finances will be going out to purchase my first table saw.

   Thank to all again,

   Jerry