Porter-Cable 9690VSK Variable Speed Router Kit with Edge Guide
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware

US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Powered by a heavy-duty 1-3/4-horsepower motor that never needs lubrication, this Porter-Cable variable-speed router kit is powerful, versatile and tough. The rocker switch is dust-sealed for added longevity. The motor is easy to remove from the base and can be used with an optional plunge base or router table. A lever release holds the proper depth in place and prevents the motor from falling out during transfer. This router runs relatively quietly, particularly at lower speeds. A soft-start feature minimizes startup reaction torque. An easy-to-use micrometer gauge, inscribed with hash marks every 1/64 inch and clear markings every 1/8 inch, provides simple, accurate depth adjustments. A machined, die-cast aluminum motor housing and base mean added strength and cooler operation. Speed is controlled with electronic precision and is fully adjustable from 10,000-27,500 rpm. Self-releasing collets make bit changes quick and easy. (There's even an accessory collet available for use with 3/8-inch bits.) The adjustable sub-base comes factory-aligned for use with a templet guide. And the built-in handles, while a bit awkward at first, certainly get the job done. All in all, a quality woodworking tool.--Carl Thress ... Read more

Features

• 1/4-inch and 1/2-inch self-releasing collets standard
• Powerful, 1-3/4HP, 11 amp motor
• Electronic variable speed from 10,000-27,500 rpm, for matching speed to material and bit
• Includes 42690 professional edge guide and case
• New "lever release" height adjustment provides ease of use whether in a table or handheld

Reviews (2)

Lever Release has alot to be desired
Lever release height adjustment dosnt buckle to well, have to play with it to get it to snap. No instructions or paper work for edge guide that was included with router. Once lever release buckle was snapped unit performed well. I see Buckle release being a problem in the future.

Porter-Cable 9690VSK
Bought this router last week.A very nice piece of equipment.Solid, well put together, everything you expect in a Porter Cable Tool.With more power than my old 690 router I haven't been able to stop it yet.The collets change in a snap, and the motor won't fall out when inverted in a table.The edge guide is a great bonus, making this router not only the most widely accepted for aftermarket accessories, but a great value as well. ... Read more

Asin: B00006411H
Subjects:  1. Porter-Cable    2. (Portercable)    3. Routers    4. Fixed-Base Routers   

DEWALT DW733 12-1/2" Portable Thickness Planer
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
list price: $718.00
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

DeWalt's sturdy four-column planer is a great addition in any workshop--and, because it's easily portable, transition to the job site is always an option. Thanks to the largest material support table of any portable planer on the market and a tight-locking cutterhead, boards feed through effortlessly with minimal snipe. We also liked how easy it is to measure precise cuts with the turret stops (set at 1/4, 1/2, and 3/4 of an inch). There's also a calibrated depth crank that adjusts 1/16 of an inch with each full rotation. Unlike other portable planers, DeWalt's provides an easy-to-read gauge of how much material each pass removes as well as the amount left over on the original board. Rather than using double-edged knives, this model takes two big M2 high-speed steel knives with single-surface cutting areas that deliver an impressive 64.1 cuts per inch. Changing knives took us a mere 10 minutes (and we were new to this design) and--better yet--they can be resharpened multiple times rather than discarded after one use. Powered by 15 amps with a no-load speed of 10,000 rpm, DeWalt's easily transported planer is a nice combination of high performance and convenience. Each planer ships with an extra set of knives, magnets, and wrenches. --Justin Paul ... Read more

Features

• Magnetic gauge holds knives in place, making changing knives easy
• Includes an extra set of knives and dust hood, an $84.99 value
• Four-column head lock secures cutterhead to eliminate snipe
• Extra long infeed and outfeed tables provide 33 inches of material support
• 15 amp motor rotates the cutterhead at 10,000 rpm, making 64 cuts per inch

Reviews (126)

If a woodchuck could chuck wood
I like this planer just fine.However I must admit that this is the only one I have ever used.I had a friend who had a maple tree fall in his yard.We went our and ripped about 40, 12" x 30" x 3" blocks with our chain saws. (without a ripping chain).The blocks were in terrible shape.I have run these through this planner and now have 40 pieces of 1" x12"x30 beautiful marbled maple.I had to run each piece through about 20- 25 times to get all the chain saw marks out.So I would guess that is about 2500 board feet of nasty rock hard maple.NO PROBLEM.This thing is like a ginsui knife,I took one of the pieces and ran it through to see how fine I could finish it, a buddy of mine needed a custom size cutting board for his kitchen cabinet.I hardly need to sand it when I was done.The one problem I had was when I bought it the screw that holds the handle on was not long enough and I stripped the hole, but it stays on with gravity just fine. I Also would like two speeds, as with most of my reviews this is my fault for not spending the money.

Great Litte Machine!
You will be hard pressed to find a planer that will do a better job than this DW733.Set up was a snap, maybe an hour to remove from the box and double check all adjustments.If you do the basics - keep knives sharp, in and out tables adjusted properly and provide support for long pieces - this machine will give you great results.Snipe is minimal to non-existant. The dust hood & my 650cfm dust collector eliminates 95% of all chips.

Excellent Product
I bought this planer 10 months ago and just got around to using it.I am impressed!Set up was easy right out of the box.The planer makes super smooth cuts with no snipe.Dewalt has upgraded to a 3 knife model, but it is hard to see how they could improve on this one.The dust hood does a good job with my shop vac attached with very few chips ending up on the table.
The only negative I have found so far is the carrying handles.If you don't carry it level the planer can shift on the telescopic handles and pinch your hand. ... Read more

Asin: B00004OCHZ
Subjects:  1. DeWalt    2. (De Walt)    3. Planers    4. Bench-Top Planers    5. (Planners)    6. (Plainers)    7. (Surface Planers)    8. (Portable)   

Fisch TC90-100 Turning Center Wood Lathe
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
-- our price: $299.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Features

• Two-year warranty
• Heavy cast construction
• 10-inch diameter turning
• 15-inch between centers
• Accepts Easy Mount bed extension - allows up to 39 inches between centers

Reviews (4)

Highly recommended.
I wanted to buy a lathe to turn spindels for some Windsor Chairs I was planning to build.The space in my basement woodshop is limited and I did not want to invest a lot of money in a large machine.The Fisch is a great little lathe.With the bed extension, I was able to turn chair legs and arm spindels.I have built over a dozen chairs and the lathe has been excellent-very quiet and smooth operation with plenty of power.I would highly recommend this lathe as an entry level model or to anyone doing light duty turning.

A little short on Quality
After considering the other brands, I finally chose the Fisch.

What I like:
1. Access to belts for changing speeds.
2. Heavy unit
3. Price (bought it at the WW show, came with the ext bed)
4. More HP

What I DO NOT like:
1. Customer service is weak.

Nice machine for the price.

Good lathe, but shipping problems
For the money, this is a good lathe.I particularly recommended it for those who, like me, would like to try wood turning, but do not want to sink alot of money into it at first.I've used it now for a few months now, made several small bowls and other pieces, and am enjoying it.

I would also recommend that a beginning turner get a good instruction book or guideance from someone experienced.I've found that good technique is important both for good results and for safety.

If it was not for shipping and service difficulties, I would have given the product the full 5 star rating.I ordered the lathe in early January, but did not receive it until March (this despite the words that it "usually ships in 1 to 2 weeks" shown continuously on the Amazon.com product page - which was irritating).When it arrived the plastic belt cover was cracked and barely functional.I sent 2 emails to the Fisch customer service department with no response.Finally on the third try, in which I also copied several in management, they did come thru and sent me a replacement part. ... Read more

Asin: B000051WSK
Sales Rank: 12718
Subjects:  1. Lathes    2. Bench-Top Lathes    3. (Laths)    4. (Portable)   

JET 708457K / JJ-6CSX 6" Woodworking Jointer
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
list price: $679.00 -- our price: $599.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

When it comes to jointers, there aren't a lot of differences among the leaders in the market. Like other manufacturers, Jet uses heavy-duty cast iron in the fence, jointer base, and infeed/outfeed tables and offers a three-blade drum and built-in 4-inch dust port. Their design, however, features a couple of innovations that changed our "jointers are jointers" mindset. While the infeed tables in other models can only be raised or lowered with a rod or lever system, this machine's design allows you to adjust both of the feed tables by rotating smooth, industrial-style hand wheels. This feature lends itself to easier tapers and gives you more control when you need to take off precise measurements, like 1/64 of an inch, a setting that can frustrate woodworkers lifting the arms up or down on other machines. The fence glides extremely smoothly throughout its range of motion and tilts both ways, but, where other brands offer fixed stops only at 45 and 90 degrees, Jet's jointer adjusts to quickly reproduce multiple cuts at any angle you find necessary. Driven by a 4,850 rpm, 1-horsepower induction motor completely encased in a welded steel stand, this jointer comes prewired for 115-volt outlets and can be converted to run off 230-volt sources. As a final touch, Jet designed the industrial start switch with holes behind the button for locking with a readily available Master Lock to keep coworkers or family members safe from accidental injury. --Justin Paul ... Read more

Features

• Built-in ledge for cutting rabbets
• 1 hp, single-phase, 115/230-volt motor
• 46-inch cast-iron bed with precision-machined finish ensures accuracy
• Fence tilt two ways and features 90- and 45-degree positive stops
• Easy-to-use handwheels accurately adjust the infeed and outfeed tables

Reviews (36)

Great Jointer (Out of the Box)
I use mine almost every day on heart pine. You can tell the machine is obviously made tough, just by looking at it. Ran smoothly and did a great job. However, I wore my blades out and had to replace them. Still did a great job but now it vibrated, so I bought good Amana blades for the next replacement. Still it vibrated. I am not sure, but I have a hunch that the Jet people spin-balanced the drum AFTER the blades were clamped in the head, so now when you replace the blades it will always be out of balance no matter how good your replacement blades are.
What do I have to do to get this thing running smoothly again, remove the drum and get it rebalanced ?

Excellent machine
Picked one up a couple months ago.

Everything was right on.Assembled it according to the instructions and it cut like a dream.I tested it out with some scraps of oak I got at my wood supplier.Great finish and perfectly straight after running them through a couple times.

Machine has little vibration.Not too loud.Plenty of power.

Like every machine that has the typical 'fan belt', the vibration can be reduced with a link belt, along with a reduction in noise.Hearing protection is a must with any wood cutting operation, just as important as safety glasses.

I went a long time without a jointer and have greatly increased the quality of my work with it.If you are looking to add a nice piece of equipment to your shop to help you produce better results, I would recommend this jointer.

This machine has all the right features.First thing to do is coat the fence and table surfaces with Slip-It or a non-silicon wax.It's a night and day difference when the wood easily glides across the table and when you have to force it.

For a 6" jointer it was the Jet or the Delta.For me, the Jet had the edge with the hand crank adjustment of the infeed and outfeed tables.

Update:Did some rabbiting cuts with it and it worked great.Seemed alot easier and safer than using a router.Finish on the cuts was excellent.Hogged out about 1/4" in a single pass in hard maple with no problem.

Hope this helped.

Perfect jointer for the home shop
After doing considerable research on jointers, I knew that I wanted to purchase an excellent one for the money.My requirements were that it had to come from a reputable manufacturer, be reliable, solid, and powerful.

My research led me to this Jet jointer and I haven't been disappointed since.When you power it up, the silky smooth hum of the motor belies it power.It seems to be saying, "time to rock."Dust collection is very efficient, the supports are dead-flat, and the motor is incredibly powerful.I mean I face jointed 5.5" 8/4 hard maple on this puppy...

Everything about this machine is just right:the feel, the look, the reliability.There are some things that can't be expressed in words.So if you have access to one, give it a try.Or just save yourself the time and just buy it. ... Read more

Asin: B00006ANS5
Subjects:  1. Jointers    2. Stationary Jointers   

Delta SA446 Shopmaster 4" Belt & 6" Disc Sander
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware (01 October, 2002)
list price: $138.47 -- our price: $109.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

A versatile all-in-one machine, this 4-inch belt sander lies horizontally for edge- and face-sanding without the runaway effort of a handheld belt sander, thanks to the sturdy, adjustable, and removable backstop. Or position the belt vertically (or at any angle between 0 and 90 degrees) for contour, bevel, and chamfer sanding--the tables on both sanders tilt to 45 degrees. Use the miter gauge, and you're able to sand in compound angles. The belt sands 2,000 surface feet per minute, and the disc rotates at 3,100 rpm for serious stock removal. A die-cast aluminum base offers stability at a remarkably spare 33 pounds. Predrilled base holes make mounting a simple task. Delta even provided a built-in 2-1/4-inch dust port for connection to a shop vacuum to keep your workshop air clean. Sure, handheld sanders have their place in a woodworker's shop, but add this to your collection and you won't know how you ever got along without it. --Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• 2-year limited warranty on machines, parts, and accessories
• Tilting table has a miter gauge slot and can be used with either the belt or disc unit
• Belt unit can be used vertically or horizontally for a variety of applications
• Belt tensioning lever and tracking control knob provide easy belt replacement and adjustment
• Built-in 2-1/4-inch dust port for use with a vacuum or dust collector

Reviews (9)

Excellent Value and great for small Projects
I definitely agree with some of the other reviews that this sander is a great value and that its excellent for small projects or as a hobby. I have my own shop and it fits perfectly in for doing the job. Shop around though for the best price. The sander is a great value based on its functionality. And that the belt can be used either vertically or horizantally is definitely a plus. Also replacement belts and disks are well stocked everywhere. Its much esier than some brand that uses a special size or type thats unique to that particular machine. A+++++

Motor Burnout
Purchased this sander and used it for light sanding only on small parts. Not many hours of use in two years when the warranty ran out. But so did the motor. It costs more for a motor than the whole sander sobe aware that this is what I would consider a throw away tool.

GOOD VALUE
I recently purchased this product.I found the manual to be well thought out and easy to follow.Assembly was straight forward and easy.The unit seems to be fairly well constructed for its size and intended purpose.My only complaint is with the belt which has an overlap seam and can cause considerable thumping in some applications.I would definately reccommend this product for small projects.However, be sure to check everyone's price, as I found one seller to have a price considerably below everyone elses. ... Read more

Asin: B00006JZZY
Subjects:  1. Sanders    2. Disc Sanders   

JET JDP-17MF / 354169 Drill Press
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
list price: $579.00 -- our price: $399.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

A staple in the professional woodshop, a drill press should be able to perform grunt work, yet quickly adjust for precision applications. Jet's 16-1/2-inch model does just that. Made of cast-iron and heavy-gauge steel components, this press spins bits up to 5/8 of an inch with 16 speeds from 200 to 3,630 rpm. A 3/4-horsepower induction motor drives the belts, and, for your convenience, it can run off either 115-volt outlets (for which it comes prewired) or 230-volt sources. The large 13-3/4-inch worktable glides easily with rack-and-pinion adjustment and tilts 45 degrees right or left to accommodate your needs. Two features we like are the positive depth stop on the left side, which quickly adjusts and locks in place via three nuts, and the built-in lamp, a nice touch some competitors don't offer. Changing belt position is a snap after flipping open the hinged metal cover, and, to personalize the press for your comfort and peace of mind, you can adjust the tension on the spindle return spring, as well as lock out the start button to protect others in your absence. This industrial-style drill press is a tool any professional or serious home woodworker can depend on. --Justin Paul ... Read more

Features

• Cast-iron construction with heavy-gauge steel components
• 16 speeds from 200 to 3,630 rpm
• Large 13-3/4-inch worktable tilts 45 degrees right or left with rack-and-pinion adjustment
• Easy-to-set positive depth stop for repetitive tasks

Reviews (37)

Very Good Drill Press
I chose this drill press after reading a lot of reviews comparing Jet, Delta, Ridgid, etc., both here and in forums, magazines, etc., and the Jet received higher marks on average (all had reviews that ranged from excellent to poor, so one has to obtain some sort of weighted average).I also checked out the Ridgid and the Jet at local stores, and both looked and felt good (lowering quill, manually turning spindle, raising table).The Jet had a larger "swing," longer quill travel, and a larger motor (3/4 hp vs. 1/2 hp) than the Ridgid, though the Ridgid was cheaper.Also, one local store that carries very high quality power tools only stocked Jet drill presses, an indication that the owner is putting his reputation behind them.

Assembly was easy and was completed without a hitch.Putting a straight 3/8" rod into the chuck, I checked that the table was square to the rod and that runout was minimal (I forget the measurements, but runout was very small).

I have had this drill press for 3 months now, and it is working well.At first use, there was some vibration at almost all speeds, so I checked that the pullies were aligned vertically (coplanar), which they were, and that the motor was not vibrating (it was smooth when removed and run on the bench).I then purchased a 5' link belt, which nicely made the two ~29" belts required, and the vibration was reduced to a minimal level (passes nickel test even when starting).The vibration was not really excessive before the link belts, but enough to make me less than ecstatic with my purchase.With the link belts, I'm very happy with the drill press.

The lowest speed of 200 rpm is very handy for larger Forstner bits and hole saws.The built-in light is nice (I had no bulb trouble that others noted), as is the chuck key holder, a small item but very convenient.

My only complaint is that the rack and gear system for changing the table height has some areas where it wants to bind a bit and then "jump."However, I crank slowly, and when I feel resistance, I back off and ease through it.Unlike some reviewers's units, my rack is straight and flush with the support, and slides smoothly (when rotating the table to either side), though problems that others have noted with the racks have helped by alerting me to swing the table slowly, watching the rack ends as they slide.

Overall a nice drill press that I hope will last until my son or one of my daughters inherits it from me.

Many problems right out of box
I bought the Jet because, like many others, I was impressed with the good things other reviewers had to say about its overall value. The motor is more than powerful enough, the construction seems sturdy, and the range of speeds is impressive.

Now let me tell you about my ordeal with this drill press. When it arrived (1 day late) via ABF, the box was absolutely mutilated. The driver noted the damage to the box, and that there was no visible damage--which was true enough. In spite of the box's condition, the pieces inside seemed to be undamaged. Assembly took only about an hour. Everything fit together nicely, except the rack, which is bowed so that there is about 1/2 in of space between it and the support post. The cast iron base is heavy and sturdy, but mine is warped--no matter where I place it, I have to shim one corner to keep it from rocking. The motor is quiet, but the motor-mount is bent. The whole motor assembly sits about 7 degrees off plumb. Naturally this is a little disconcerting. I had no trouble mounting the arbor and chuck to the quill, but the run out is so severe (over 1/32 in.) that I get oblong holes. And talk about rattle! This thing rattles in more places than I can count! From top to bottom! Forget about the `nickel test', I can't even get a wrench to stay put on the table--it dances right over the edge.

In short, this drill press is 100% unusable.

I assume poor handling during shipping caused most of the problems I have experienced, but judging by other reviews, maybe not all.

I'm more than disappointed. I hope cases like this are rare.

UPDATE 1:
I have been on the phone with tech support for over an hour. The rep I spoke with was very patient and understanding and he didn't dismiss my frustration. After some time talking about the problems, he sent me off to do a little troubleshooting on my own. When I called him back with the results, he advised me to send the whole thing back to Amazon.

UPDATE 2:
The replacement arrived in much better condition than the first. The belts are still terrible, but otherwise this machine seems to be trouble free.

There was quite a lot of confusion about returning the defective unit, and in the end, I had to wait for the 'threatening letter' from Amazon before I could get a phone number to call and sort it out.

Final thoughts:
I have purchased several other items from Jet, and I'm sure I will again in the future. I do wish quality control was a little more effective.

Great Drill Press - Amazon Stinks Though
This drill press is very nice.The description isn't as thorough as it could be on the site.It has plenty of speeds and the quality of the work that comes off of it is very nice.
Be careful when ordering.Amazon claims free shipping and in stock.I had to wait 2 weeks - and they charged me an addl. $9.95 for shipping.Wouldn't have been a big deal except I needed it for business.And they strung me along week by week instead of being up front about the delay.
Also having the same shipping and availability problems with a bandsaw I ordered from Amazon that same day.Had to cancel and order from a different supplier. ... Read more

Asin: B00004T9L0
Subjects:  1. Drill Presses    2. Stationary Drill Presses    3. (Drils)   

Porter-Cable CPF6025VP6 HP, 25-Gallon Oilless Vertical Air Compressor
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
list price: $449.99 -- our price: $399.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Features

• One-year warranty
• High-pressure technology provides the equivalent of a 32-gallon air supply
• Tank pressure is maintained between 110 and 135 PSI for more usable air
• High-flow regulator for more efficient operation of pneumatic tools
• Provides 8.3 SCFM at 40 PSI and 5.8 SCFM at 90 PSI

Reviews (4)

Last Porter Cable Tool I Purchase
I am in the process of priming/painting moulding in my garage to be nailed up in the house I just built. Had a similar Craftsman that lasted me about 8 yrs and just broke. So, this time I ordered this one from Tool Crib. It lasted a total of 4 months before breaking down yesterday. It is still under the warranty so I phoned Porter Cable. They said I have to take it to a certain nearest service center which happens to be a 4 hr drive from where I live. Or, I can ship it to them if I pay the shipping. So, I ended up driving to the nearest town today to buy a new compressor of a different brand. Pretty darn poor service. What do I expect you might ask? I expect them to let me take the brand new thing to any near by place that can fix it and have the bill sent to them! I have purchased a lot of Porter Cable tools while building this house but that compressor was the last one!

Some problems, poor service policy, impressive specs
I just bought one of these units. When I unpacked it and bolted the wheels on, I discovered that the bracket which holds the wheels on had been welded onto the tank crooked. As a result it stood at an angle, resting on only one of the rubber feet. The other one was about a half inch off of the ground. I was able to correct the problem by re-drilling one of the wheel mounting holes. Hopefully rest of the tank was welded with a bit more care.

Be warned, the Porter Cable service policy as stated in the manual is essentially: Don't return a defective unit to the retailer. Call Porter Cable to find the nearest service center. You pay the shipping(not cheap on a 130 pound compressor).

The SCFM spec is impressive, more so than similarly priced units. I have not used the unit much yet but expect it to serve well in the light-duty role for which I bought it.

great compressor
great compressor, easy to move around and use. .... ... Read more

Asin: B00004Z06E
Sales Rank: 10517
Subjects:  1. Porter-Cable    2. (Portercable)    3. Air Compressors    4. Oil-less Compressors    5. Stacked    6. (Compresors)    7. (Compressers)   

Forrest WW10407125 Woodworker II 10", 40-Tooth Blade for Table Saws (1/8" Kerf)
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
list price: $156.00 -- our price: $99.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Features

• No more cutting 1/16-inch oversize to allow for resurfacing
• 10-inch by 40-tooth, 1/8-inch kerf
• One blade does rip, combo, and crosscut
• No more scratchy saw cuts
• No more second-step finishing

Reviews (71)

Your Own Shredder!
Very sharp and long living blade!
Cut woods, trees and heads(animals)!

There's a reason that this blade averages 5 stars
There's nothing out there like this blade.Don't get me wrong, Freud, Old Ham, etc., make good blades, it's just that this one is exceptional.I've also bought their chopsaw blade and just like the WoodWorker II, it's fantastic!Worth every penny.

Forrest saw blades
I have several Forrest blade products, including the Woodworker I and II, (10 inch) and the 12" chopmaster, along with their Dado set (8 inch), and their blade dampener.The blades ALL are the best I have ever owned, and have replaced such blades as the Freud 40 tooth combination and Freud 80 tooth Teflon coated blade I used to use for super smooth cuts. The Woodworker blades in the table saw and the radial arm saw both give cuts as good as the best Freud blades while being easier to use. The table saw blade allows for a faster feed rate with less burning, and the Radial arm saw blade is safer to use because it does not try to grab and walk through the wood.The 12 inch blade on my Dewalt sliding compound miter saw is a dream. I can cut slivers off of oak that you can almost read through and are glass smooth, and the saw is completely controllable. The quality of cut, longevity of the cutting edge (haven't sharpened any of the blades in 15 years of light to moderate use) and ease of machining make these blades well worth much more than they cost. The Dado head, while expensive, is unequalled for cutting absolutely smooth flat-bottomed dadoes and rabbets (adjustable wobble dados are quick and cheap, but the results are not nearly good enough for fine furniture work.) ... Read more

Asin: B0000223VQ
Sales Rank: 225
Subjects:  1. Blades    2. Table Saw Blades    3. 10-inch Blades    4. (Tablesaws)   

Hitachi C10FCD 10" Dual Bevel Compound Miter Saw
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
list price: $537.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

The Hitachi C10FCD 10-inch dual bevel compound miter saw is a workhorse on wood. Quick and accurate, this saw makes perfect miter cuts, bevel cuts, and compound cuts in wood, plywood, color board, soft fabric board, hard board, and aluminum sash. A 13 amp, single-phase AC 60 Hz motor delivers 3,800 rpm of no load speed to the carbide-tipped blade, while overload protection keeps the tool from overheating even on the most difficult jobs. Among its features, Hitachi has included a couple that any woodworker will appreciate: namely a soft-start and electronic feedback power control that combine to reduce recoil and help the saw maintain its rpm throughout the cut. The motor housing bevels both right and left of center, for added versatility, while the onboard miter and bevel scales are both accurate and easy to read. Positive stops are provided for the most common miter cuts, and both scales allow the saw to be tightened in place at any angle for better precision cutting. The Hitachi dual bevel compound miter saw attaches securely to any workbench and is light enough (28.7 pounds) to take with you to the job site. Detailed instructions include a multi-page chart of bevel and miter cut settings for virtually any crown molding cut, another definite plus.--Carl Thress ... Read more

Features

• Saw bevels right and left 45 degrees
• 13 amp motor delivers no load speed of 3,800 rpm
• Soft start reduces recoil, for smoother, more accurate cuts
• Overload protection keeps the tool from overheating
• Switch lock ensures safe operation

Reviews (6)

A waste. Not much of a paper weight either.
Bought this when it came out from a source other than Amazon.This is one of most poorly put together saws it's been my displeasure to use, much less own.
To begin w/ the bevel locking lever and 90 deg. flip stop - when you use them you WILL lose knuckle flesh on these even after you've wrestled the lever around the dust bag.Everything is sloppy as far as the bevel fuction, part of the purpose for buying this saw ya know?Just a really bad set of design flaws. Also, 3 different times I've had a major failure in the table rotating mechanism.Hitachi uses 3 stainless steel "glides"(for lack of the actual part name) as the areas the table rotates against, tese are super thin guage and have tabs that seat them in the main body that the table rotates on.3 times, about 2 wks apart one of hese pieces somehow unseated, got caught, jammed and crushed while in the rotating of the table and in order to free the tool up - of course in the field - it took an uncomfortable, and audibly unpleasant amount of force to dislodge the table from it's position.As a result, the aluminum surfaces on either side were so severly grooved that it would cost more to repair it than to buy another one.This thing I'm describing is easier to see than to describe but because it's the entire other primary fuction of a miter saw, it's just a little important.
Beyond that ... as long as you simply want to cut 90 deg, it's a beautiful unit.Very light, and the start up and accuracy is dead on.JUST DON'T MOVE ANYTHING!
Lastly, the repair service I just recently tried to have fix this thing said that Hitachi lists it as consumer grade.It shows and it's a shame they're marketing this piece of junk at the price it sells for.
Much as I hate to say it, I think the Delta's new dual bevel miter is a better more rugged tool.

So Far So Good
I had been comparing Compund Miter Saws for awhile now and debated between the DeWalt 12" Dual Bevel and this Hitachi.I could not justify the additional $180 to go with the 12" DeWalt.What I like about this saw is the soft start feature.This is a must, especially for a light saw (only weighs 33 lbs.).I do not like the fence height at only 1.5", however for what I use it for, I don't think it will be a problem.I was willing to sacrifice this to get the soft start feature.On a side note, the extension wings and horizontal vise assemblies are NOT included and are an extra $25 each.I thought they were included since the technical data section and the picture displayed through this web site led me to believe this.

Nearly Perfect
As an avid wood worker I had problems with my 12" dewalt compound Mitre saw and gave it to my Grandfather and began searching for a new one. I'm the type of person that reads a ton of review and recommendations on a product before I purchase a new tool. This is what I chose. It is hands down the most quiet saw I found, which is important to a woodworker with his shop in the basement. The fact that if bevels left and right saves a lot of time. And after checking for square out of the box. I was as close to perftect as any chop saw I've used.5 Stars Hitachi has made another great product! ... Read more

Asin: B0000223KR
Subjects:  1. Saws    2. Miter Saws    3. (Mitre Saws)    4. (Mitersaws)    5. (Mitresaws)   

Dremel 1680Variable Speed Scroll Saw
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
list price: $169.99 -- our price: $179.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Features

• Reset button protects motor from overheating
• Variable speed of 500 to 1,600 strokes per minute
• Electronic feedback control
• Extended 12-by-16-inch cast-iron table evenly supports workpieces
• An extra-smooth finish provides effortless workpiece manipulation

Reviews (19)

If only it would get here
I'd love to say how the product works but it has not arrived !!!
It has been on order since Nov 16,2004 and you still say you can get 1 day delivery or usually ships in 24 hours !!! Now I do not have a Christmas present for my husband and I thought I ordered it in PLENTY OF TIME !!!!
update:today is 12-30-04. It says my order shipped on 12-21 but UPS says they never got it. I am cancelling this order and returning the items I did get. I am so dissapointed.

Good Saw- Bad Motor
Bought this tool over a year ago but only used it for a total of about 30 hours before the motor "burned out".The tool is solidly built, blade changes are easy, and overall I was quite happy with all aspects of the tool until, of course the motor went.Called the Dremel people, it's out of warranty and to get it fixed is cost prohibitive so I'll have to buy a new saw.If I had confidence that this event was a fluke I would buy another Dremel 1680, but another reviewer had a burned out motor with very little time on the saw.It's a shame because other than the motor this 4 star tool, alas a great saw with no motor is a $149.00 paper weight.I think I have to drop 3 bills on a Dewalt 20".

The good, the bad, but nothing ugly
After looking at the various scroll saws available, I chose this one because of the 90 degrees of table angles available (only the Craftsman also has that feature) and the fast angle settings which lock into the metal positioning plate which make returning to various settings very quick.I also had excellent experiences with Dremel products in the past.

The only problem experienced so far was the similar "clanking" sound another reviewer mentioned, but I was able to fix that by removing the two screws which hold the motor cover in place, adjusting the holes and re-installing it so the weight on the motor shaft no longer hit the inside of the cover.

I also agree with one of the other reviewers that the switches are tiresome after a while because they are so small and somewhat difficult to operate under the rubberized dust covers.

The "free" stand went together easily, and by not fully tightening all the bolts on the stand I was able to align all the holes before fully tightening down the saw.I did have to add two washers to two of the mounting holes on the top because the metal wanted to bent when tightening the saw to the stand.

The light is bright enough for me as it is not the only light I use near the saw, and it doesn't get too hot to work around.It does however get in the way at times when working with larger pieces if the table is at an extreme angle, but this is normally not an issue.

All in all the saw works fine, and has been reliable.Next time I would spend the few extra dollars and buy the new Delta which is much heavier for less vibration, and has even easier blade changing and tension setting adjustments, both of which I feel are more important features. ... Read more

Asin: B0000302YQ
Sales Rank: 3510
Subjects:  1. Dremel    2. (Dremmel)    3. Saws    4. Scroll Saws    5. (Scrollsaws)   

Delta 36-426 Limited Edition 10" Contractors Saw
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
list price: $1,192.81
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Features

• 1-1/2 hp induction motor for smooth power and long performance
• Includes cast iron wing, industrial carbide tipped blade and laminated table board
• Finely milled cast-iron table with multi-position 30" Unifence system
• Two year limited warranty on machines, parts and accessories

Reviews (13)

a good machine for its class
Let's assume you are a typical dollar-minded woodworker who can't pull the trigger and justify the cost of a unisaw or powermatic 66.If that is the case, 3 stars is unfair because for a contractor's saw class, this machine is very good.It's a step above the typical bench-top machine.I have owned the 10" Contractor's saw for 2 years and have been happy with it's performance after putting it through the paces, BUT, the cantilevered motor design does pull the blade's angle off parallel with the fence when rotated for angle cuts.It's just the nature of the beast with these saws.Also, the motor will protest when ripping hard or thick materials;1 1/2 horses can't quite cut the mustard, so watch your feed rate.Dust collection is fair, you will need to fabricate a tray at the box bottom for a 4" connection to catch the flyings; there isn't much you can do about the open frame in the rear where the motor is located.Unifence vs Biesemyer?I have used both, personal preference is definitely the unifence.Set it up square once, it will stay that way.Don't even think about buying the saw with the stamped steel extension wing, you'll hate it.I have the cast wings, and it's worth the slight cost increase.
It's a great job saw, general purpose machine for a weekend woodworker.Don't expect it to approach the performance of a saw that costs $700 more.You get what you pay for, in this case: if you want the performace, bite the bullet and buy a cabinet saw.For the projects I do, it will be worth selling my contractor's saw and upgrading to a cabinet saw.

Great Table Saw! Worth every penny.
I bought this saw about 3 months ago and wanted to wait until I used it for a while to write a review.

This saw was an upgrade from an old skil direct drive benchtop table saw, and what an upgrade it is.

The only thing I would recomend is trying to buy it with the 52 inch fence if you can find it.I bought it with the 30 inch fence it comes with, and the fence works great, I just found I often wanted to do longer cuts.I just upgraded to the 52 inch rail, which cost me about $...well worth the money, but if you can get the saw with the bigger fence originally, it is even cheaper.

I have cut some pretty good size stock, up to 2 inch hardwood with absolutely no problems at all, and tons of sheet goods including 1" MDF.

The fence is great for cutting sheet goods, and I LOVE the sliding cutoff ability for the fence.I find it so much more accurate and easy to use the scale, than to have to clamp a cutoff block to the fence.

Assembly took me about 5 hours, it was pretty straight forward and I did not have any problems at all, the instructions were easy to follow.

All the adjustments are easy to make, to make sure everything is square and true.

I would highly recomend this saw to anyone looking for a great saw, without breaking into the cabinet saw price range.

From this point on, I will have a hard time not buying a Delta when looking for power tools.

Great Table Saw - Amazon Delivers - Some Issues
First - I love using Amazon.comProducts have always been delivered on schedule and arrived in one piece. The only problem I had this time was with the shipping company.They called the day before delivery and said they would need help taking the saw parts off the truck due to the weight of the items (the only send one person).Being the non-confrontational sucker I am, I greed to their request and helped the delivery person.Luckily I can still lift heavy things.

As far as the saw.....I am new to the woodworking world and this is my first table saw.Prior to my Delta, I used a circular saw and jigsaw to do all my cuts, so using the table saw was heavenly.My cuts have improved dramatically and I have created some fairly decent pieces in a lot less time.The unifence is one of man's greatest accomplishments.The saw has good solid construction and has little vibration during operation.

Setup was bit of a hassle.The instructions are a bit hazy. Definitely read ahead to see where they are taking you.When installing the wing and unifence, the separate instructions booklets are in conflict.

I had no problem leveling, aligning and calibrating the saw.By my shaky standards, the saw cuts are dead-on.The only real downside is dust collection.The open drop pan allows the dust to move freely about.I am looking into a better enclosure system to corral the dust.

Overall, I am a happy guy and hope to use this saw for years to come.I will buy more Delta products as my woodworking enthusiasm grows. ... Read more

Asin: B00005Q7CZ
Sales Rank: 16942
Subjects:  1. Saws    2. Table Saws    3. Stationary Table Saws    4. (Tablesaws)