I have been a woodworking hobbyist and DIYer for about 5 years. When I started out I bought a Sears Craftsman TS that has performed just fine except that it is more difficult to adjust than higher quality saws. The fence is a little squirelly, it’s nearly impossible to guage blade angle, etc. etc. Lately I’ve been wondering if I should upgrade, but I am worried about the power. I only paid about $500 for my saw new, but it consistently outperforms my buddy’s Jet contractor’s saw when it comes to power, for example cutting a 45 degree bevel in white oak. His saw bogs down and burns wood and mine doesn’t. It has nothing to do with the blade – my blade is dull and dirty (I know, I know). My saw is rated at 3hp, and his (and most other non-cabinet saws that I can afford) is rated at 1.5hp. Now, I had heard a rumor that Sears fudged their numbers a little to come up with the 3hp, but it definitely has more power. I’m worried about “upgrading” to a better saw and finding that it is underpowered and wasn’t worth the money. Any thoughts?
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Replies
Your saw has a 1 1/2 hp motor Sears rates their motors on the starting amps. This is NOT the proper way to rate a motor. It's a sales gimmic. Ask me how I know.
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The burning suggests that your buddies saw may not be set up correctly. If your saw has a cast iron top there may be hope for for it. I too struggled with a craftsman saw for years. (I use the term 'struggled' loosly. It was more like fight. It was a real vcocabulary builder. To bad the new words can't be used in mixed company) Needless to say, when I got my PowreMatic 66 I though I was in heaven. I realise that you are not searching for a new saw at the moment, when you are, there is nothing like using one of the best.
Thanks for your replies. Now that I am looking at other table saws I have another question. I really like the left tilt blade on my Craftsman saw. I've been looking at the Delta Platinum Edition contractor's saw, but it looks like it has a right tilt blade. Is that an option or do I have to go to a cabinet saw to get it? I don't really have the funds OR the space for a cabinet saw, as nice as they look.
Jet makes Left Tilt CS as does powermatic.
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