Replies

1. 
   john_c2 | Dec 19, 2022 09:35am | #1

   I got the PCS. I just couldn't justify the extra size, cost, and capacity of the ICS.

   I did get the ICS mobile base. It's far superior to the PCS mobile base.

1. 
   CharlesElkins | Dec 19, 2022 03:26pm | #4

   Same here. Sometimes I wish I had gotten the ICS (isn't bigger always better?) but then I remember how well my PCS works and come to my senses.

2. FWW Editor
   mpekovich | Dec 19, 2022 10:16am | #2

   I've used each, and they're both great saws. I happen to own the ICS because I do a lot of stock prep for classes and spend a fair amount of time at the saw, but for most home shops I think the PCS is a good solution.

3. 
   99devine | Dec 19, 2022 01:22pm | #3

   I'm a hobbyist, and I've owned a PCS for over four years. I graduated from a Sears 10-inch contractor's saw, which I'd owned since the mid-1980s. Aside from the obvious safety benefits (my Sears didn't even have a riving knife, among other things), the PCS is a delight. I don't think the average hobbyist would require the greater power of the ICS. I can't say enough how happy I am with my PCS, so I won't prolong this comment.

4. 
   DRBWWing | Dec 20, 2022 09:31am | #5

   ICS is an industrial application. 5HP is not needed for a hobbyist shop.

5. 
   MJY65 | Dec 20, 2022 10:07am | #6

   I've had my PCS for about 7 years and never found it lacking for power.

6. 
   mattk41 | Dec 20, 2022 11:59am | #7

   Had a PCS 3hp for about 12 years, great saw! I have used the ICS version elsewhere too, and the biggest difference IMHO is the amount of table in front of the blade...that makes a VERY big difference. And if I knew then what I know now, id have bought the ICS. For instance, a x-cut sled sized to process ~24" cabinet sides --an avg sized sled w/ a beefy rear fence--only give you a few inches miter-slot/runner engagement before the work piece engages the blade. And such a sled, loaded with the work piece will need to be supported level with your arms until you have advanced into the cut and the sled base is fully supported by the table.

   Another maybe less noted difference, is that the switch box/motor cover/electrical cable is located on the left (PCS) vs the right (ICS). If you have a floor receptacle or one mounted under an outfeed table or a "middle of the room" arrangement...no issues. But, many woodworkers, in order to preserve their infeed runway, outfeed clearance and pass-way space along the left side of the table tend orient their saws so that the right end of saw rails are close to a wall/receptacle...and in that case it means the PCS's cord has to cross behind (or heaven forbid) in front of the saws cabinet to reach its power source.

   My saw was originally set up w/ 52" fence rails/table, but I recently converted it to 36". And I have the mobile base --its been helpful on occasion when setting up my shop (and then moving to a new one). But, unless you are planning to move the saw around a lot (like sharing your shop with a car?) it's not that heavy a tool...a few plastic furniture glides would work just fine. My advice would be to save the money on the base, longer rails, tables etc and get more cast iron in the depth of the table.