Replies

1. 
   Ricks503 | Aug 13, 2005 11:48pm | #1

   If you catch the sales and use the craftsman club discount, the craftsman is probably the best bet - I do not have one, but have seen a number of posts in Knots that are favorable.  Get the model number ( I do not remember it off the top of my head) and do a search here and in knots on it and you will get a number of hits.

    

   Also, you do not mention what your price range is. That could make a differance in the responses you get.  Also, depending on where you live, used cabinet saws might be available - look for those. and if you are neart a city with an active craigs list you might want to keep an out there for a good used one  http://www.craigslist.com

   Another needed piece of info would be how much space you have.  You might need to look into having your tools on mobile bases to make you shop usable.

   edit: 

   check out the Craftsman 22124 question down below in the TABLESAW section

   Please give use a bit more info so we can respond with more appropriate info.  You might try posting this question in Knots as well - some people check one or the other but not both, while other do check posts forums.

   1 - measure the board twice, 2 - cut it once, 3 - measure the space where it is supposed to go        4 - get a new board and go back to step 1

   
   

   ---

   Edited 8/13/2005 4:51 pm ET by Ricks503

1. 
   grizz | Aug 14, 2005 12:54am | #2

   Thank you, I had never heard of the Craiglist before, very helpful. As far as a budget I would Like to be in the $1500 range

1. 
   CJH | Aug 14, 2005 02:21am | #3

   Is that $1500 for the saw or for your startup shop?Regardless, if you have 220V service to your shop or can run it to your shop will also influence the opinions you get.I'm in the same boat as you and find the Craftsman 922124 and the Dewalt 746 to be overpriced. The CM does go on sale, however, and you can get reconditioned Dewalts. For the full price of either I'd rather throw in a bit more money, get a full cabinet saw and deal with the 220V issue.

2. 
   Knotscott | Aug 14, 2005 02:41am | #4

   For serious hobby work and a good long term investment, I'd suggest with sticking to a full size cast iron saw that's either a standard contractor saw, hybrid, or maybe even a full cabinet saw. All have cast iron tables and trunnions, standard miter slots, standard 27" depth, belt driven induction motors, and all should handle the vast majority of your needs. Aside from the basic design differences of the given style, most of the bigger differences are features and circumstances. The fence and miter gauge are among the more important features IMO, but even the best stock miter gauge may leave you wanting an aftermarket upgrade eventually. The Biesemeyer fence is considered the industry by many, and there are many good copies of it in use.

   I sold my GI contractor saw for a 22124 and have been very happy with the added features and stability of the 22124. The GI was a nice contractor saw, but I was interested in the features of the 22124 and newer hybrids. GI and Delta also have new hybrids that I'd suggest researching...full cabinets, Biesemeyer fences, etc. ~ $850-$950.

   Grizzly, Shop Fox, GI, Jet, Delta and Bridgewood all make very nice 3hp cabinet saws for ~ $1000-$1500.

   You'll do fine with any of the major brands over $500. If you're careful, you can get what you pay for with improved fences, and added features. A good used saw can be a great way to get more saw for less money. Let us know how you make out!

   http://www.epinions.com/content_184778395268

   Edit update: FYI - The 22124 is on sale to Craftsman Club members for $855 from 8/17 thru 8/23.

   
   

   ---

   Edited 8/15/2005 2:41 pm ET by scotty

1. 
   Walker1 | Aug 14, 2005 10:16am | #5

               Oh man,  You lost Knott Scott, how annoying 

                                                        Walker1

1. 
   Knotscott | Aug 14, 2005 02:01pm | #6

   Well....if that's the worst thing that happens this week, it's a pretty good week! (LOL!) ...probably my fault anyway. You'll still get the same bad advice! Now that I'm back in, maybe I can figure out how to change it! At the risk of a hijack....anyone have a hint?Edit: ...:( ...just answered my own question. From the FAQ:
   How do I change my Screen Name?
   Once a Screen Name is created, it cannot be changed.

   Edited 8/14/2005 7:13 am ET by scotty

3. 
   sedna | Aug 15, 2005 03:16am | #7

   I would sure go for a good cabinet saw, in this price range you can expect to find a good used one (such as a Delta Unisaw). Then you have one good saw for life and you will be very happy with it. Go 3 HP and 220 V.
   Good luck
   Sedna

4. 
   Denman | Aug 24, 2005 07:48am | #8

   I always thought that the cornerstone of the shop (tool wise) was the bandsaw! Oh well.. do yourself a major favour and get the best.........my personal choice is the 3 HP General 350 which operates on 240 volts/ Solid cast iron table top, trunions, Baldor motor..you name it, this one is very hard to beat. Second choice would be the Powermatic. There is no doubt that these cabinet saws are far superior to and hybrid  or contractor's saw. I regularly cut 3 inch rock maple and no bogging down. That's performance! The accuracy is first-rate and with the sliding table accessory, I can accurately cut sheet goods, repeatable dadoes and cross cuts that are right on the mark.

   Goood luck!