Thanks,
That was a good review, and covered the reasons why I was looking at the DeWalt, as well as the reasons I
have not purchased one yet. Still thinking. The $499 prices I quoted were from ToolCrib (Amazon.com) as they
are offering the DeWalt (with stand) for $499, as well as the Bosch with stand, and rear (off bearing) extension
for $499. So the prices are coming down. A plus for the Bosch was an
electronic start-up, to bring the saw blade up to speed without the harsh kick as referred to in the review.
The Bosch had a larger table top than the DeWalt. A sled would likely be good for them both.
But the Bosch didn't have the neat fence that the DeWalt had.
So many decisions. Maybe I will look into the used market.
If you really want to buy a saw, take a look at used saws. However, from your post it sounds like you won't be using the saw very much and it might make more sense to find someone who owns a saw who'll do you a favor and cut up some stock for you.
I've purchased most of my woodshop tools used and have yet to have a problem where the tools had hidden defects. Most hobby sized tools don't get a lot of use and they are often put up for sale when the owner switches hobbies or decides that he wants to upgrade. Another advantage to the used route is that you generally don't lose anything when you decide to sell the tool.
I've also purchased used tools and they have performed well. Look for ones from hobby users as pointed out previously; not professionals since they can be used very hard on job sites and may not show it. Many retirees buy tools and hardly use them. And ususally very good quality too. Expect to pay about half list price.
Along the same lines as what Andy is saying, A friend and I have an agreement. We keep a list of tools that we have, and whoever is first to have a requirement for a tool not on the list goes and buys it. However, this only works well with people who share the same respect for tools as you.
<font color="blue">If you really want to buy a saw, take a look at used saws. However, from your post it sounds like you won't be using the saw very much and it might make more sense to find someone who owns a saw who'll do you a favor and cut up some stock for you. </font color>
I picked up the American Woodworker magazine with the table saw review in it. After reading the review, I read the rest of the magazine & thought to myself, hmm I could do that. I'll try to keep this post on topic so see my new post Woodworking: for Love or Money?
I talked to the wife about the $600 Ridgid saw. She said "Do a cost benifit analysis" I said, I drive two hours and borrow my dad's to get us thru this project. But that gets old fast.
Well, got an email from the wife and I quote "Maybe we should just suck it up and buy the saw (but I'm still thinking about it)". Hmmm sounds encouraging. [img]/forums/images/icons/smile.gif[/img]
Going to look at the Jet & Delta contracters models tonight. I've checked out the Ridgid at the Depot, but nobody there can answer any questions [img]/forums/images/icons/frown.gif[/img]
Got the <font color="green">Green Light</font color> from the CFO last night. Will be picking up the Jet 10" Contractor at Woodworkers Warehouse tonight.
Comparing the Jet & Delta side by side, the Jet's fence was a little sturdier. Jet was also $50 cheaper ($550). Plus Jet has the $100 new equipment/$50 accessory rebate special. Both saws had steel wings in that price range. It would cost about $200 to step up to the cast iron. Maybe someday if my woodworking aspirations take off.
Thanks for all the advice. Armed with good information, my job of getting approval from the CFO is easier.
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