DEWALT DW746 10" Woodworker's Table Saw (Saw Only)
by DeWalt
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
list price: $1,590.00 -- our price: $849.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Features

• Blade elevation crank has plenty of hand clearance to make blade-height adjustments quick and easy
• Accurate, dependable fence
• Massive cast iron trunnion provides solid arbor support
• The large, easy-access on/off switch eliminates fumbling around when you're ready to start or stop cutting operations
• Powerful and space efficient

Reviews (22)

No more table saw envy
After 7 years of use, it was finally time to upgrade my Skil portable saw.I did a lot of research into different models, including the Jet, Delta, and Powermatic.Finally I went to a woodworking show and talked to the man who literally "wrote the book" on table saws, and he recommended the DeWalt DW746.It was a little more than I wanted to spend on a saw, but he said it should be the last saw I ever buy.I ordered it and the 30" rails from Amazon, and ordered the mobile base from Tyler (Amazon had a long back order and Tyler was cheaper).

The suggestion made by someone else here to assemble the base first, then attach it to the feet while the saw was still upside down in the crate was on the money.Can't imagine trying to attach it afterwards.

* Pros:

Assembly took a few hours, and was very straightforward.

The table was very flat, and everything but the splitter was well aligned.

I had to resaw some 5/4 x 5 Poplar, and the saw never bogged down at all.Plus it made surprisingly smooth and well aligned cuts for having to flip the wood over to make 2 passes.

Dust collection works surprisingly well.I had to rig up a 2-1/2 to 4" adapter, but it removes 90% of the dust.A little dust still blows off the blade.

Very smooth running, no vibration.The internal motor and wide belt lend a lot to that.

Takes up a lot less space than most other saws, since the motor is inside the frame.

The 30" rails were flat and true.

* Cons:

Removing the guard is a pain, and it's a little hard to get at one of the nuts.

The blade that comes with it is lousy.Replaced it with a Freud and it's like night and day.

Needs a 20A line, as it occasionally trips a 15A breaker on startup.I'm going to switch it to 240v soon.Should be smoother.

The miter guage does not have any holes in it for mounting accessories and jigs.I took care of that.

The assembly instructions (as others have mentioned) could stand some improvement.The photos were not matched up with the text, and in some places the text started next to the picture then wrapped under it, making it very hard to follow.This should be a simple fix for DeWalt.

* Overall:

I'm hoping the author was correct that it will be my last saw.So far I have been very impressed with it.

Shop teacher- Great saw!
I've taught high school woodshop for 13 yrs and have used contractor saws in my home shop and 2 Unisaws in the school shop. Needing to upgrade the saw at home I researched the options. A Unisaw was my first choice but if I bought it I was short on funds for an upgrade fence (Beisemeyer) and sliding table. Looking at the hybrid saws brought me to the Jet and the Dewalt. Reviews of the Jet spoke of a quailty machine but with a few shortcomings such as the link belt for blade adjustment. The DW was newer on the market than the Jet so didn't have many reviews. I decided to purchase a recon unit from Toolking for just under 800.00.

The saw arrived in sturdy packing and there was nothing to make me believe it had been reconditioned for any reason. No sawdust, dents, dings etc. A few hours to assemble with decent directions. I had also purchased the 30" Beisemeyer commercial fence and Delta sliding table and Forrest blade. All this took me to under 1500.00 which was the entry level price for the Unisaw.

The saw has seen hundreds of feet of cherry and tiger maple. I built an entire set of kitchen cabinets with melamine boxes and cherry doors. The sliding table was easy to install on the Dewalt. I have not had one single problem or noticed any lack of power or performance.

I made some zero clearance inserts and a large side and outfeed table. The saw comes with some steel units that are rather light weight. The factory fence looks decent although I have never installed it.

My only recommendations for improvement would be to add a 4" or 6" dust port and larger handwheels for blade adjustment. All in all its a great value for the money. Lance A, Chico CA

I studied a long time before buying this saw!
My woodworking hobby outgrew my starter saw a few years ago, but circumstances did not allow me to buy a new saw until this year. Since I really wanted to take my time with this decision, I studied the market, put my hands on every saw I could, and read everything I could find on the web about table saw features. Since I work in a library, I also had access to every table saw review in most of the woodworking magazines.

Eventually I came up with the following criteria:

- I have a one car garage for a workshop, so space was a big issue. I was only looking at saws with 30" capacity to the right of the blade. I also limited my search to saws that could be pushed flat against a wall if need be. This left only hybrids and cabinet saws to consider.

- I wanted the most powerful motor I could get without having to switch to 240 volts, yet have the option to rewire the saw for 240v later if I so choose (thus eliminating 3hp saws).

- I wanted a solid fence that was accurate and DID NOT DEFLECT when locked down.

- I wanted some decent dust collection abilities.

- I wanted a quieter saw with less vibration than my old Delta contractor's saw.

- I wanted to spend less than $1000 to get the saw, yet have lots of options for upgrading/outfitting later.

Eventually I chose the DeWalt 746, and here are my observations:

The saw package arrived in relatively undamaged crating (seven days after I ordered it from Amazon), and the saw was in perfect condition. Here's a tip - I ordered this saw over the phone and was given the option to pay $25 to have the saw delivered on the ground in my shop - well worth it! Assembly was not too bad (3 hrs), but the manual could have been a bit better. In my mind it was a bit too small and the illustrations corresponding to each step of assembly were not always on the same page! This saw is heavy and the cabinet/stand is very stiff and strong. I feel that the base of this saw is a much better design than the open stand of my old Delta. The saw also runs very smoothly - it is A LOT quieter than my last saw and vibration is at a minimum. The motor is about as powerful as you can get while running 120v without popping breakers left and right (which I have read is a common problem with the 2hp motors running 120v). I have not had any problems ripping 8/4 white oak with a good sharp blade... Speaking of blades, the one that came with this saw is inferior. I will keep it just for those instances where I want to cut treated lumber for outside projects or some other such task not requiring precision or smooth cuts. I have always wanted a Biesenmeyer fence, but I read good things about the DeWalt fence on this saw and was eager to try it for myself. I am pleased to say that it is a very sturdy (and heavy) fence with some ingenious features. Most importantly this fence operates very smoothly, it does not deflect when locked down, it was easy to adjust square to the miter slot and blade, and zeroing the fence scale could not have been easier. I did have to fuss with it a bit to get the fence face set 90 degree to the table, but once I got it there it seems to hold the setting well. Dust collection on this saw is absolutely excellent. I hooked up my Fein Turbo II vacuum and basically no significant sawdust escapes. I couldn't be happier in that department. As for safety features, I like splitters and hate blade guards so I was pleased to find that the splitter/blade guard on this saw is able to be separated (I did just that). The splitter is easily adjustable and works well.

As far as downsides go... Well, as I mentioned earlier the assembly manual could have been way better and the blade that came with the saw is junk. Also (and I read this several places ahead of time) the table is not absolutely flat. Using a straightedge I found a couple of hollows in the surface. I don't think they are significant enough to throw off the accuracy of what I am doing with this saw, but be forwarned that if you use a tablesaw to cut something more intricate than tenons you may have a problem with this. Unlike other reviewers I didn't have too much of a problem with the steel extension wings that came with this saw. When installed properly are they perfectly level to the main table? Yes. Are they perfectly flat? No, but acceptible for what they are. I wanted a good saw that could be upgraded and these are good enough for temporary use. In fact there are a host of great accessories/upgrades available for this saw. I already installed a cast iron router table wing (made by Bench Dog) and soon I plan to order the DeWalt cast iron wing for the other side of the saw.

When it comes down to it, I am very pleased with this saw. The features all met or exceeded my personal needs. This is important, because I have no doubt I could have gotten a saw that performed nearly as well for a lot less money, but it would have failed to meet one or more of MY criteria. As for the price - I bought mine at a time when the saw was on sale and the mobile base was included (see my separate review of the mobile base). The sale price coupled with Amazon's ongoing deal of 25 dollars off any order over 199 gave me this saw at more than a seventy dollar discount. If your needs are similar to mine, then take a close look at this saw. I highly recommend it!
... Read more

Asin: B0000302Q9
Sales Rank: 3481
Subjects:  1. DeWalt    2. (De Walt)    3. Saws    4. Table Saws    5. Stationary Table Saws    6. (Tablesaws)   

ExcaliburEXSLT40 Sliding Table Attachment with 49" Crosscut Capacity
by Excalibur
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
list price: $619.00 -- our price: $599.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Features

• Lifetime warranty
• Fits any saw with a solid cast-iron table top
• Pre-drilled to also fit virtually all 1- to 14-inch table saws
• Flip stop lets the operator choose the necessary measurement
• Can be used on the left or right side

Reviews (7)

Great quality and workmanship.
I just returned from a wood show and saw this sliding table in action.This sliding table tracks straight and level.But most impressive is how strong it is.I put two, 200 pound friends on this table and then moved the table back and forth.The table slid effortlessly, like no one was on the table.It was unbelievable.That's 400 pounds of material moving back and forth.JET makes a sliding table that will attach to most table saws but it is bulky and heavy.This thing is realatively light.The miter is excellent, easy to adjust and very easy to remove.I found that all the functions were well thought out and easy to use.For example:the frame of the sliding table is designed so that when you slide the table towards the rear there are no crossmembers in your way.Meaning that you can move your body inside the front of the table.Thus you don't find yourself leaning over the table as you push the material through.It's attention to detail like this that you will find throughout the design of this table.I would highly recommend this sliding table.

if you have the patiecne...
this thing is a PAIN to adjust, if you are not willing to put in a good day of frustration don't buy it.... but once you do it and you really crank down on the allen bolts it seems to stay put.i set mine up over two years ago and with tons of use it still is right on.
the plastic knobs that are used for moving the fence around are trash... you can find metal replacemnts through some woodworking supply stores (stuff like this can really piss you off when it breaks off while your in the middle of a project)
i pretty much don't use the 49" capacity as it is a pain to move the fence around and change all the adjustments... you can go up to around 34" if you lower the blade and then raise it up through the material, i believe 28"is the real max...
adding a micro adjust stop to the fence would be a nice touch. it is hard to move those 32nd etc...
for all it's short comings i can say i would be lost with out it. it has allowed me to take on some huge projects that would have not been possible crosscutting with a skill saw or what have you.... i don'tconsider it to be expensive, when you start looking into "real" sliding table setups and good panel saws your talking thousands....
i give it 3 stars, a mark that takes in the hassles and cheap knobs and compares it to a powermatic sliding table that costs over $10,000.....

Excalibur Sliding Table
I was looking for a precision attachment for my table saw to cut sheet goods and long stock. The excalibur table is marketed as such a product. Unfortunately, I was very dissappointed. It was an exercise in frustration and futility to properly adjust the unit and once I though I had it, it didn't take much to knock it out of alignment. Sad to say I believe this is a way overpriced piece of equipment (I almost want to say junk)and I believe your money can be better spent elsewhere. I have some ideas of how to correct this but it will require putting more effort than I care to spend on something that cost this much. I wish it was more like my Biesmeyer fence that was able to produce accurate cuts with hardly any difficulty at all. ... Read more

Asin: B000051XIY
Sales Rank: 2744
Subjects:  1. Saws    2. Table Saws    3. Outfeed Tables    4. (Tablesaws)   

ExcaliburEXBC-10Overarm Blade Cover
by Excalibur
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
list price: $389.00 -- our price: $379.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Features

• Blade cover hood to be positioned 34 to 66 inches away from the column
• Controls airborne dust
• Compatible with most table saws
• Blade cover hood positioned 34 to 66 inches away from the column
• Ready for connection to 4-inch dust port

Reviews (11)

Great unit, horrible instructions.
Fantastic unit.Very well built and effective in dust removal.Wonderful advantage in being able to swing the arm out of the way and/or easily remove it if necessary.Only draw back is the lack of instrucitons.No explination of what screws, bolts, nuts go where and with what.Only one diagram for cross member assembly nothing else.Would highly recommend this to others.Not impossible to figure out what goes where but a disapointment in slowing down assembly time.

Dust free!
I was somewhat reserved in my expectations after reading the manufacturers' literature.There is very good visibility while making cuts, and maybe a teaspoon of dust has slipped past the dust collector/hood.Really sweet!The only drawback was the manufacturer's assembly instructions, count on figuring it out yourself.

The maual creates its own vacuum.
I run a professional woodworking shop and recently purchased one of these. The main reason was to have a saw guard that could be removed for special processes (i.e. dados and rabbets) with a minimal amount of lost time and reinstalled afterward. This guard perfectly fits the bill; throw the lever and the entire arm sings out of the way. When installed with the Merlin splitter the amount of lost time for the tool-less removal and replacement is less then 15 seconds! The same proces with the stock guard would take about 3 minutes. Do this 20 times and I just lost a carpenter for an hour. The second selling point is the use of the arm as a dust collection duct.
However there is one HUGE problem, the manual is a complete and total waste of the paper that it is printed on. It is worse than some of the manuals that I have seen for items manufactured in Asia. The grammer and punctuation is fine. It just could not be more vague if it was printed with clear ink on acetate.
Installing the boom channel or whatever they call it was what would cause one to say "Third time is a charm." It took three attempts to put the arm in the proper position. That is absurd. It would be easy for the manufacturer to give a simple formula relative to the distance of the fully raised blade from the back of the table to the pin on the channel (on my pre-2002 Powermatic 66 the distance from the rear of the table to the pin is 13.75" ergo distance from back of blade to rear of table plus 7"). Instead, they tell you to hold the arm above the blade to give you an idea as to where the channel should mount. Also my 13.75" distance is when the top of the pin is flush with the top of the table.
Sarcastically speaking, the manual sucks so much that one would not need an external dust collection hook up.
A minor problem. The support arms are too long as someone else noted. They need to be redrilled. I had to move the holes in 1.25". Not a big problem. We have drills in the shop.
Other than those problems the overall quality is very good. The arm is quite solid and so far everyone in the shop is happy. ... Read more

Asin: B000051XJ0
Sales Rank: 2203
Subjects:  1. Saws    2. Table Saws    3. Table Saw Attachments    4. (Tablesaws)   

JessEm 02001 Rout-R-Lift
by JessEm
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
list price: $298.00 -- our price: $215.00
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Features

• Insert plate dimensions: 11-3/4 x 14-3/4 x 3/16 thick
• Insert plate is machined with a 3-5/8 dia. TAB-LOC™ centerhole.
• Built in plate leveling system for a perfect fit flush to the tabletop.
• Includes a 1-1/2 insert ring with a wrench, starting pin and hex key wrench.

Reviews (8)

Great product... poor support and very weak documentation.
The rout-r-lift is an excellent product that can be difficult to setup. Too bad because Jessem will lose customers this way.

The template this company provides is an mdf template which is okay. It's just a template anyway. But, what I really needed was detailed instructions, a kit, something. I had just spent over $200.00 on the lift, the least Jessem could do was help me successfully install it. Jessem really needs to put a kit together, or a brief pamphlet inside the rout-r-lift box that provides detailed instructions, a list of tools and template part number information to make it a little easier for some of us who are "less than mechanically inclined". And, how about making the information available on the web site. This is one company that thinks sharing information with customers will cost them money. Pretty archaic thinking. Jessem, this is an opportunity to increase revenues.

I spent considerable time building a router table and a nice table top which I didn't want to ruin. Jessem's instructions for installing the rout-r-lift were so weak that I had tosearch on Google for good detailed installation instructions.

Having said all this, the Rout-r-lift is well engineered and works as advertised. Now that I've successfully installed the first one, I'd do it again. It's a nice product.

no manuals
The Jess Em Mast-R-Lift arrived with out any manuals or supporting documents. The templatewas also ordered and is nothing more than a 16 X 19 in. by 3/4 in. thick MDF board with a hole in it without instructions. The $9.90 cost for the template is excessive as a 4 X 8 foot sheet of MDF can be purchased for less money.
The use of the template requires the hole to be cut with a 1/2 inch bit with a with a 3/4 inch bearing, none of which are supplied by the vendor.

If you have or are considering the Porter Cable 7518...
If you have or are considering the Porter Cable 7518 model, JessEm makes the MAST-R-LIFT which works great. Rockler has it if you can't find it here and there are adapters to fit other models. If you intend to use the 7518 only in a router table, then buy the MAST-R-LIFT and only the motor unit of the 7518. It'll save you some $$. Didn't know you could do that. You may get other router vendors via a replacement motor unit. If you're buying a 3+ HP router, that motor is going to be very heavy. Now some router lifts are L shaped and the motor gets strapped on the side. Over time you may not get the consistent support needed for heavy routers. The MAST-R-LIFT is H shaped--giving two vertical bars of support and balanced consistent support. The only bad thing, is I think these units (for their price) should include a template and instructions to route the supporting hole. You might also consider getting an external on/off switch. Also in your table design, plan access to that variable speed switch too. A motorized drive is a luxury and would have to be carefully stepped to get fine adjustments. The crank works great. I did find the plastic inserts a little stiff, but you can touch them up with a Dremel tool if need be. One last point. Always remove the crank handle before you change bits. I didn't do this once, and got a bad cut on my knuckle. ... Read more

Asin: B00002266P
Sales Rank: 7556
Subjects:  1. Routers    2. Tables    3. (Routertables)   

Incra TSIII-32 32" Ultra Based Table Saw Fence Positioner (Sawtooth Rack Based)
by Incra
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
list price: $444.95 -- our price: $349.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Features

• INCRA precision on both sides of the blade
• Sawtooth Rack based Automatic Positioning Control for the Table Saw
• 36" heavy duty Rip Fence stays PERFECTLY parallel at ALL settings.
• Heavy duty rail system for three point fence clamping
• Extra-long carriage, 32" positioning range

Reviews (10)

Amazon.com dipslays horrible customer service - again
I can't offer a review on the tool, but I feel that I should give anyone considering purchasing this item a "head's up" on what I have experienced.Bottom line up front: order it from Tool Crib's phone order catalogue.You will get it for the same price, but you will deal with people who have a clue about what they sell.I ordered this fence system nearly a month ago, and to the best of my knowledge, it ships in three packages: one for the Ultra Jig, one for the center mount and fence, and one for the fence rails.So far, after five e-mails to Amazon'z virtually non-responsive customer service department and two phone calls (incidentally, the Amazon customer service number is 800-201-7575 - although they do their best to hide that from you)I have recieved two shipments of the center mount and fence package and one of the Ultra Jig.I have not received the fence rails.However, Amazon insists that it sent me three separate shipments of the entire product in response to my complaints - SO THEY ARE NOW EXPECTING ME TO RETURN TWO COMPLETE PRODUCTS WHEN I HAVE YET TO RECEIVE ONE IN ITS ENTIRETY!

Calls and e-mails to Amazon are fruitless - I can't seem to get them to understand that the product comes in three separate and distinct boxes, let alone actually ship the three boxes.My last call came yielded an admission from the rep that he had no idea what I was talking about and he'd "be lucky to know a hammer from a screwdriver".Tool Crib can't help me because I placed the order on-line; on-line orders are handled by Amazon.Thus, my suggestion: place the order over the phone with Tool Crib, that way, the people who handle your order will know what they are talking about.Otherwise you could be like me: owing Amazon lots of money as a result of their incompetence and ignorance for an order you never received.

I will update my review with my opinion on the fence if and when this situation is resolved.

THIEVES: Make sure this is what you really want......
I purchased this on April 11th.About 30 minutes later I needed to cancel the order.I found a cheaper price locally.They indicated i could not cancel the order but I could refuse shipment, and they would credit my card.That was almost 2 months ago.They have not credited my card and refuse to give me a phone number where I can speak with a CSR.No more Amazon for me.....To bad I likedthis place.Sometimes principal can be a pain.

Yeah, it's pretty nice
Anyone researching this fence has probably already read numerous positive reviews and user comments about this system about Incra in general.
I've found them to be largely true, but the system has some issues, too:
Yep, it DOES take up a lot of precious floor-space.This is especially compounded by moving the rails further to the right to extend rip capacity.
My fence is not flat.I read a ~.020" bow (proud in the center behind the carriage) with my dial caliper over the length of the fence.I expect I could grind this down, or shim out via a sub-fence.
The rails are LONG, and supporting them, while not required, seems prudent.This is especially true if you're dropping a router in an extension wing.
The "hairline" cursor on my positioner is not a hairline - it's tough reading that little scale, too - I think I could easily lock down 1/32" off and not realize it (this could be my vision, though).
I noticed that clamping the positioner in seems to move the fence a little.Not a big deal but it makes initial set-up a little hit-or-miss.
This is a modular product, so the terminology gets confusing.You're looking at a TSIII fence "system" - it includes the Ultra positioner, rails, a mounting plate, fence, and carriage.To Incra's credit, these items are all offered seperately, but this makes it a little more confusing.Some of these parts are identical to the router-table based systems (the positioner, the carriage, e.g.).It seems a little redundant to buy a TS AND a RT system since they share these components.
The knob to clamp down the front of the fence seems a little cheesy, and the back of the fence is clamped down with a (supplied) Allen wrench driver.Just seems odd compared to conventional systems.

Obviously these are picky little issues - it's a clever design, it's very modular (adding extension tables/ accesories is a breeze), manuals and packaging are the best I've seen, it can serve double-duty as a RT fence, etc.With many more words I could convey:the system is really flexible and will allow you to come up with a configuration that will suit your work needs/style.

I'm saying nothing about accuracy here because I think that's been covered well elsewhere.

The fence seems to remain square to the slots / blade, but it just feels unlikely that this is true when you use it.The center mount, friction from dragging hold downs, and general "flimsyness" of the system (in it's unlocked state - when locked, it's very secure) make me feel like the fence is skewing all over the place.

I know this is mixed bag for a review but when I was researching, I could find nothing other than "perfect"... ... Read more

Asin: B0000639X0
Sales Rank: 7725
Subjects:  1. Fences    2. Table Saw Fences    3. (Tablesaws)   

Incra WF37 Wonder Fence
by Incra
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
-- our price: $249.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Features

• Also makes a great upgrade to your Incra Jig Ultra or TS-III Table Saw Fence
• Split fence design allows both fence offset and gap adjustment
• All critical surfaces machined perfectly flat
• Attaches to any router or shaper table up to 37" wide with included clamps
• Includes hi-rise fence cap for vertical panel raising and tall boards

Reviews (4)

High Learning Curve - But Worth It
After using the Bench Dog fence for a while, I felt an urge for something with a bit more precision.Not that the Bench Dog was a bad fence, but I'm a sucker for accuracy, and the Incra Jig Ultra combined with the Wonder Fence offer solid, repeatable adjustments.After looking everything over at the store I decided to spend the admittedly steep price of admission.

I'm not sure where the other reviewer's complaint comes from.Out of the box, without the LS extender, the Wonder Fence uses edge clamps, much like the Bench Dog.And it is ever bit as rigid as that fence as well.In the solo configuration the fence offer the kind of micrometer adjustments that one is used to in metal machining hardware.The two sides of the split fence can be adjusted independently, (depth and gap) which turns the average router table into a jointing and shaping station as well.The hi-rise fence cap works perfectly for panel raising and vertical milling as well.

The real power of this fence becomes apparent when it is used with the Incra Jig Ultra with the LS-positioner.Now you can move the fence in 1/32" increments with 1000th of inch adjustments.This is a spooky level of accuracy in woodwork.

The biggest drawback is the learning curve.Once you want the Incra set up to do more than be a simple fence, you have to learn how to use it, and everywhere you turn there are things to turn.Incra may have a talent for high-end accuracy, but as manual writers they are only so-so.Expect to put in some learning and experiment time.Then expect to go crazy making exotic joints.

[Part VI of 'How to Build a Really Expensive Router Table']

Flimsy, won't hold up to feed pressure.
I returned this fence. Using the words "Heavy Duty" in the description by Incra?... must be a joke. I would give it zero stars and a Mr. Yuck if that were an option. I am a box maker, using fairly small stock, even so, I found this fence to be very inadequate in it's ability to stay in place ("flat, square, and on 1 plane) when feeding stock against the cutter. This is a serious issue, considering Incra touts the extreme accuracy and incremental measuring capability of this fence to the finest degree.(All of which becomes totally useless if the thing won't stay flat or square under pressure.) You can put a 64th incremental measuring tape sticker on anything...doesn't mean it'll be accurate.
If you need very accurate surfaces, don't waste your time on this fence. If you don't need extreme accuracy, use a jointed 2 x 6 (which , by the way, I have had better results with, than the Incra.) #-(

Ps: I purchased this and returned it the same week in 2002. Perhaps it has been improved since then. Looks the same to me though.

Flimsy, won't hold up to feed pressure.
I returned this fence. I would give it zero stars and a Mr. Yuck if that were an option. I am a box maker, using fairly small stock, even so, I found this fence to be very inadequate in it's ability to stay in place when feeding stock against the cutter. This is a serious issue, considering Incra touts the extreme accuracy and incremental measuring capability of this fence to the finest degree.(All of which becomes totally useless if the thing won't stay flat or square under pressure.) You can put a 64th incremental measuring tape sticker on anything...doesn't mean it'll be accurate.
If you need very accurate surfaces, don't waste your time on this fence. If you don't need extreme accuracy, use a jointed 2 x 6 (which , by the way, I have had better results with, than the Incra.) #-( ... Read more

Asin: B0000639WZ
Sales Rank: 18653
Subjects:  1. Fences    2. Table Saw Fences    3. (Tablesaws)   

JET DC-650 / 708640 115 Volt, 1 HP, 650 CFM, Dust Collector
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
list price: $429.00 -- our price: $249.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Unveil this secret weapon with the flick of a switch and establish a strong beachhead against dust in your home or shop. Powered by a 1-horsepower, 115-volt induction motor, Jet's 650 cfm dust collector comes with 2.67-cubic-foot bags that grab particles 30 microns and larger. The 9-3/4-inch steel blower wheel is stout enough to handle larger particle-producing applications. The entire unit sits conveniently on easy-to-roll casters, so moving it around the shop is no problem. A unique feature separating Jet's dust collectors from the competition is how easily the lower bag can be removed and reattached. There's a handy flexible metal band that snaps quickly into place--which is a hundred times easier than wrestling with cinch straps. The machine stands only 66 inches tall and is ideal for small shops. There's only one dust port; you have to set up to larger models for two ports. A great carpenter once referred to sawdust as "the indomitable scourge silently mounting in woodshops nationwide." Well, now there's something you can do about it. --Justin Paul ... Read more

Features

• One-year limited warranty
• 1 hp, single-phase, 115-volt motor
• Single-stage design
• Compact size: 27 by 14 by 57 inches
• Bag diameter: 14 inches

Reviews (26)

Great addition to my shop
After setting up the dc650, I couldn't believe i waited so long to get one. I was using a 6HP shop vac, and I figured that would be good enough for my tools. Bad idea... i ended up with a lot of saw dust clogs in my planer, band saw, and especially planer (dw 735 -- an awesome machine) which instantly clogged the shop vac pipes. this dust collector is significantly quiter and far stronger. using 4" is also much nicer than the 2" shop vac tubes.

Note that the unit doesn't come with any tubing ... you'll want to buy some lengths of 4" tubing (not dryer vent tubing get dust collector tubing, preferably clear so you can make sure there are no clogs) and some 4" hose clamps. For my set up, i've put in a variety of hard 4" pipes (sewer pvc) and then put in blast gates, t's, etc and various reducers to hook up to all of my equipment. since my shop space is limited, i move the dust collector around to hook up in to my hard runs or machines directly. my areas is way cleaner and my tools are way happier. get one!

JET DC-650/708640
I bought this Dust Collector just about a year ago. First, I found it almost inpossible to get the standard 30 micron filters to snap in place. On advice from another owner on this forum I purchased a set of 5 micron bags from Penn State Industries to cut down on dust escaping through the filter bags. These bags although they were advertised to fit the DC 650, by the time you got them in place and sealed with the spring loaded 20" retaining clips you end up with bunched up pleats which allow dust to escape through. The DC 650 does work well to collect the saw dust produced while sanding on my Powermatic 2442 lathe but I think there are better designed collectors out there that for a few more dollars wouldn't have these design deficiencies.

Great Collector For The Small Shop
I've had mine for years and it works great. I use primarily at the Miter Saw since that's the only tool in my shop that is stationary. For any small shop it works great. This used to be my DC for my basement shop before I moved into the garage. The only problem I had with it was on my belt/disc sander. It didn't pick up the dust that well but the there was roughly 25 feet of hose and PVC to go thru. Not the DC's fault. Overall, I'd recommend it for any small shop ... Read more

Asin: B0000223LM
Subjects:  1. Vacuums    2. Dust Collectors    3. (Vacumes)    4. (Vaccuums)    5. (Vaccums)    6. (Vacums)   

JET AFS-1000B / 708620B Air Filtration System
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
list price: $400.00 -- our price: $249.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

A good filtration system is as important as any tool in your shop, and the Jet AFS-1000 is a pretty inspired machine. Like other systems on the market, Jet's uses a two-filter process: an outer filter removes particles up to 5 microns in size and an inner, three-pocket filter traps particles as small as 1 micron. The electrostatic outer filter easily withstands three or four washings, and the inner filter can be blown clean easily with compressed air. On the power end, Jet's three-speed, 1/6-horsepower motor filters to 1044 cfm on high speed. The outer filter is well sealed and provides efficient intake. However, what really sets the AFS-1000 apart from most filtration systems is its remote control and timer features. Since these systems are most effective when placed high or hung from the ceiling, being able to control all of the unit's functions via remote control is a feature we quickly decided we wouldn't want to live without. The timer, which can also be set via remote, affords you the option to set it and forget it. --Justin Paul ... Read more

Features

• Comes with an electrostatic filter that is electronically charged to attract many more dust particles than other standard filters
• Filters 98% of all particles 5 microns in size and 85% of all particles 1 micron in size
• Runs quietly
• Includes a remote control for convenience
• Comes complete with eyebolts to either hang the machine from the ceiling or to sit on on a workbench

Reviews (77)

Good Machine, Horible Customer Service
Over the past three months, I have purchased 4 Jet woodworking machines including this one, to the tune of almost $2400.Until recently, I was planning to purchase a Jet Planer Molder and Performax Drumsander, but based on my recent experience with the WHM Tool Group, who makes this equipment, I am having second thoughts.Although I am for the most part happy with the machines I've purchased, when I was assembling my table saw, the fence that came with the saw did not match the one in the instructions, and I had to spend a considerable amount of time on hold with the WHM customer service department to find out how to mount it to the saw.I can live with that, but as I began to use the saw I discovered that although two arbor wrenches are required to change the saw blade, only one came with the saw. Although I don't think it is too much to ask that they throw in two $6 wrenches with a $1500 saw, I thought, I'd just order one from the WHM website.There I found that the Shipping for the $6 wrench would be $19.99.I sent a note to WHM regarding this requesting a reply, and did not receive one.When I called a week later, I was curtly told that the saw comes with only one wrench.When I asked why it would cost $20 to send a $6 wrench that would fit in a standard letter sized envelope, I was told that they do not ship via U.S Mail, and that was the end of the conversation.I ordered the wrench to the tune of $26.70, and was surprised again to find that it was back ordered with no expected date of delivery. I sent a copy of this rating to WHM tool group to give them a chance to respond, but again have received no response almost a week later.For what ever it's worth, if customer service is important to you and you don't want to have to purchase things that should come with the tool and then be charged three times the value of the item for shipping and handling you might want to consider another brand.

No way to review when new unit fuse blows
Just purchasd the unit based upon all of the favorable reviews. Maybe I'm in the minority but when connecting the power and hitting "ON"...poof, the fuse trips. I reset the fuse, try again, and...poof, the fuse blows. The third try was not a charm. Based upon a new unit doing this, I have to rate it 1 star. Perhaps I will spend a little more and by the USA-made JDS.

Good investment with many applications
Solid construction and performance all around; the unit is intended for ceiling mount but is just portable enough for my purposes. Considering the many favorable customer reviews here, I'm not alone in endorsing the AFS-1000B and have no regrets having purchased one. ... Read more

Asin: B00004R9LO
Subjects:  1. Vacuums    2. Dust Collectors    3. Air Cleaners    4. (Vacumes)    5. (Vaccuums)    6. (Vaccums)    7. (Vacums)   

JET JBM-5 / 708580 Benchtop Mortiser
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
list price: $499.00 -- our price: $249.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

For you furniture makers out there who find yourselves spending more time than you'd like setting up the mortising attachment on your drill press (then taking it off, again), JET's affordable benchtop mortiser ought to be a welcome addition to your woodshop's tool collection. Designed to take up to 1/2-inch chisel bits, JET's benchtop mortiser runs off a 1/2-horsepower induction motor. At only 44 pounds, the tool is sturdy but also easily maneuvered, plus it reverses on its base to allow for mortising in long stock. The 4-3/4-inch head stroke is great. Bits are easy to change. Just flip open the steel door on either side (these doors are made of flimsy plastic on some of the competition's models) to gain easy access to the chuck. And, thanks to the 4-inch chuck key, there's little chance of banging or scraping your knuckles while switching bits (a small touch, perhaps, but a nice one). We also like the quick-setting depth stop on this tool--as well as the removable toggle switch that keeps less-experienced (or child-size) hands out of harm's way. The mortiser's feed handle adjusts, too, so you can choose the most comfortable position for each application--another nice touch. Set on a heavy-duty cast-iron base with four predrilled mounting holes, this dependable machine allows any woodworker, from the beginner to the expert, to create fantastic-looking mortise-and-tenon joints. --Justin Paul ... Read more

Features

• Safety toggle switch
• 1/2 hp, 115-volt, 1,725 rpm motor
• 1/2-inch chisel capacity
• 4-3/4-inch head stroke
• Rack-and-pinion head for raising and lowering

Reviews (59)

Good Machine, Horible Customer Service
Over the past three months, I have purchased 4 Jet woodworking machines, including this one to the tune of almost $2400.Until recently, I was planning to purchase a Jet Planer Molder and Performax Drumsander, but based on my recent experience with the WHM Tool Group, who makes this equipment, I am having second thoughts.Although I am for the most part happy with the machines I've purchased, when I was assembling my table saw, the fence that came with the saw did not match the one in the instructions, and I had to spend a considerable amount of time on hold with the WHM customer service department to find out how to mount it to the saw.I can live with that, but as I began to use the saw I discovered that although two arbor wrenches are required to change the saw blade, only one came with the saw. Although I don't think it is too much to ask that they throw in two $6 wrenches with a $1500 saw, I thought, I'd just order one from the WHM website.There I found that the Shipping for the $6 wrench would be $19.99.I sent a note to WHM regarding this requesting a reply, and did not receive one.When I called a week later, I was curtly told that the saw comes with only one wrench.When I asked why it would cost $20 to send a $6 wrench that would fit in a standard letter sized envelope, I was told that they do not ship via U.S Mail, and that was the end of the conversation.I ordered the wrench to the tune of $26.70, and was surprised again to find that it was back ordered with no expected date of delivery. I sent a copy of this rating to WHM tool group to give them a chance to respond, but again have received no response almost a week later.For what ever it's worth, if customer service is important to you and you don't want to have to purchase things that should come with the tool and then be charged three times the value of the item for shipping and handling you might want to consider another brand.

Good Machine For the Money
You cant really go wrong here with this mortise machine.I read all the reviews prior to buying this machine about the shipping damage and was holding my breath hopeing mine would make it in one piece but I have to say the packing could use some work.The cast iron base was cracked about 4 inches when it arrived.I called Jet and they sent one out UPS ground right away with no problems.The only other problem I found with the machine is the fence is not straight.Its off about 3/16 inch or better on alignment due to the hole not being bored straight through the body of the machine during manufacture.I cut some really nice mortise joints through some red oak and the machine works very good.The bits that came with it are very sharp and seem to function great.Would have gave it 5 stars if not for the fence problem.All in all not bad for the price.

good for the hobbyist
I've built several projects with this mortiser over the past year.It has done a great job.The stop mechanism works great, it's sturdy, and the chisels that come with it are plenty sharp.I've built about 4 tables with this machine, and I am currently building a cabinetmaker's bench, which requires me to bore mortises about 3 inches deep.Since I am using poplar for my base it didn't bog down the motor like maple would, however, the base wasn't wide enough to accomodate the large legs.No biggie:Rockler sells an extension table for this model that I am considering buying.

I wish they would have included mounting hardware (like my Delta drill press), so that I could mount it without any further trips to the hardware store. ... Read more

Asin: B0000223M4
Subjects:  1. Drill Presses    2. Mortisers    3. (Drils)    4. (Mortise)    5. (Mortising Machines)   

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 (35)

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.

Great Jointer And Tough As Nails
Have had mine for over 5 years and still runs like a top. I take it out to jobsites often and even after being knocked around and all over it still purrs like a kitten. In fact it once fell out of my truck and the only thing that happened was I broke the outfeed table adjustment wheel ( not that I ever move it ) and a couple of scratches. The only tinkering I have to do with it is when I change the knives. Other than that, turn it on and go! ... Read more

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

DEWALT DW733 12-1/2" Portable Thickness Planer
by DeWalt
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)   

DEWALT DW788S 20" Variable Speed Scroll Saw with Stand and Light
by DeWalt
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
list price: $968.00
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

When it comes to cutting intricate curves, DeWalt's 20-inch scroll saw delivers precision operation quietly and easily. In fact, everything about the saw is designed for convenience. The on/off switch and speed control, as well as the flexible dust-blowing arm, sit on the upper portion of the front arm, inches away from where you're working, so you don't have to reach around the tool to make adjustments. The wide, teardrop-shaped cast-iron table provides plenty of support for materials and bevels 45 degrees each way, great for tackling tricky inlays and shadow boxes. DeWalt placed the pivot points right up front, rather than in the back, which seems to reduce blade vibration. As with many DeWalt saws, this scroll saw doesn't require tools to change the cutting blades, which means it takes you less time and effort to make those drop-in cuts. --Justin Paul ... Read more

Features

• Double parallel-link arm design dramatically reduces vibration and noise
• On-off switch, electronic variable speed located on the front upper arm
• Oversize, cast iron table, bevels 45 degree left and right
• 2 inch depth of cut
• Tool-free blade changing

Reviews (19)

DELAYED 6 TIMES!WILL NOT SHIP IN 1 TO 2 WEEKS!
I hear that this item is awesome however I have not received it yet.I placed the order on Dec 15th and it has been delayed 6 times.Today my order form says it will ship on Feb. 28th unless they delay it again.Do yourself a favor and order this item somewhere else.

Great saw
This saw is a smooth operating unit solid quiet and no vibration--only problem i had was w/ the switch it got clogged w/ saw dust--so I just took it apart and blew out the dust simple as that
buy it and no other you'll be happy

Getting repaired a hassle "low quality now made in Tawian"
It had it for 5 weeks before it just quit completely. I brought to the local Dewalt repair center per Dewalts service center recommendation. After waiting 2 weeks for it to be repaired, I called them and they said they had to send it off to the factory and it would be another week. After another week they said it would be another week so I called Dewalt to ask how long it should take and they said it was between me and the service center. I asked if they would call and find out what was going on and they said no. I asked what a resonable time frame for repair was and they said 2 to 3 weeks but it was up to the service center if they would issue a new one to me. I got the number to the factory and they said another week. I notice on the box it says made in Tawian and not Canada, so I am guessing even if I don't get it for another few weeks I mightg as well wait since they will all have problems because of low production quality in Tawian. Every tool I have ever bought from them in the last two years except my router has quit working, I think I will quit buying thier products. ... Read more

Asin: B000022314
Subjects:  1. DeWalt    2. (De Walt)    3. Saws    4. Scroll Saws    5. (Scrollsaws)   

Porta-Nails 421P Pneumatic Floor Nailer Kit
by Porta-Nails
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware (28 January, 2003)
list price: $598.00 -- our price: $569.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Features

• Holds up to 200 two-inch face and angle Porta-Nails
• Both angle and face nails
• Consumes 4.5CFM at 90PSI
• Oil-less system
• Mallet activated for greater impact

Reviews (15)

Fantastic Nailer
I couldn't have been happier with this nailer!I bought it to put a hard maple floor in my house, and it worked great.It is very heavy duty and is rugged enough for daily construction work.The big benefit to this nailer is that it can face nail.That saves a huge amount of time by not having to face nail by hand.

The one problem I had with the nailer was caused by not paying attention when it ran out of nails.If you hit the button on top of the nailer without any nails in the nailer, there is a chance of the spring which holds the nails in place getting jammed.I had to use pliers to get this unjammed.This is more my fault than the tool's, but be aware of this so you don't let the tool run out of nails.

I bought this tool when I put in my floor because it is cheaper for me to buy the tool and then sell it than it is to rent a second rate nailer for as long as it took me to finish my house (1500 square feet in 6 months).This is a great nailer.

Porta-Nails 421P Pneumatic Floor Nailer Kit
Did a lot of on-line research and this nailer did both face and grove nailing for the best price.I received the product within a few days after ordering. I've never used any pneumatic powered tools or done any flooring before so had help from a friend who had some experince.We put down about 700 sq ft of 3/4" thick plank hardwood flooring.Nail gun was very easy to use and didn't jam once.My friend thought the nails used in this nailer would leave to big of a hole during face nailing, so he used a brad nailer for the strips up against the walls and manually hammered in nails into the groves for the first couple rows until pneumatic nailer could be used.The web site for Porta-Nails had a very good video clip showing the operation of the nailer and really sold me to buy this particular nailer.

you get what you pay for
this is a great nailer vs. hand nailing.i've installed many floors with this nailer and it has proven & paid for itself many times over.the only thing to be careful for is that you MUST not nail over joists.i sheared the driver on the first job that i did.unfortunately, you must mark your joists, but it's a small price to pay...just be careful.the driver is approx. $40 directly from pni. ... Read more

Asin: B00005A1J6
Sales Rank: 1944
Subjects:  1. Air Tools    2. Nailers    3. Specialty Nailers    4. (Nail Guns)    5. (Nailguns)   

Freud SD5088" Super Dado Set with Anti-Kickback Design
by Freud
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
list price: $337.50 -- our price: $199.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Freud's 8-inch Super Dado set produces some of the smoothest square-bottom grooves and rabbets possible. Stacked dado sets like this one are more accurate and reliable than wobble dados, which leave a rounded bottom in the groove and can cause splintering and chipping. Freud's Super Dado set is especially good at producing smooth, chip-free results in plywoods and veneers. It features Freud's unique kickback-reducing design for safe dadoing even when used in a radial-arm saw. The set includes two outside blades, six four-wing chippers, and a set of shims, and it stores in a handy protective case. It adjusts in 1/32-inch increments, and even finer increments using the included shims. This Freud set is among the best-manufactured and well-designed dado sets available. --Brian Trinen ... Read more

Features

• Covered by Freud's limited lifetime warranty
• Thick micrograin carbide tips
• Kickback reducing design
• Chip-free, flat-bottom cuts in plywood and laminates
• Includes storage case and shim set

Reviews (123)

Freud is top shelf in my book
Excellent tool with superb craftsmanship.Freud is top quality in my book.

I recommend paying extra for better
I used to do all of my ratteting and dado cutting with various size straight/rabbet router bits and a homemade jig/guide fence system.I figured I'd bite the bullet and buy a dado blade.After doing some research and getting over the sticker shock of the average $200-$250 price range for most dado sets, I figured that I go for the SD208 for only $90.I figured that since it is from Freud, it can't be all that bad, no matter how much cheaper it is than the other models.Overall, I think the SD208 is a good buy COMPARED to all of the other dado sets and their prices of 2-3 times more than the SD208.More specifically, here are my thoughts:

POSITIVE:

1) The storage/carrying case is great.Durable plastic with an arbor-like post to mount the blades on.

2)Price.As I said, this blade is a comparatively good deal compared to other sets in the $200-$250 price range.

3)Shims are included.From what I've been told, some sets don't include shims.I can't verify that, but this set does indeed include shims.I believe there are 5-7 differenly sized shims.

NEGATIVES

1)My biggest gripe with this set is that the bottom of the cuts are far from being flat.Whether using the outerblades by themselves, or using them with different configurations of chippers, each cut bottom has multiple ridges/blade marks.

2)Shims aren't size labeled.Freud gives a great little chart showing what size chippers and shims are needed for differentcuts.However, the shims aren't labeled at all.They are merely blank circular cuts of metal.However, as any woodworker knows, you should always run your own test cuts for any job...so I'm in no way livid with Freud.It would just be a little nicety if they could label the shims.

As I said, I think the SD208 set is comparatively a great blade for its price, when viewd against other sets.However, I would recommend not skimping on price and upgraded to one of the higher-end Freuds or a Forrest set.

Try to get it sharpened
I run a small woodworking shop and I purchased the Dial-A-Width Dado.I think it is a great dado, but it has a -12 degree grind on it.Every sharpening shop in Denver cannot sharpen it without buying an expen