Post by Tom Gensmer on Jan 1, 2014 19:34:55 GMT -5
Ok gang, in this thread I'd like some input on what real or imagined differences, challenges or advantages users will encounter when transitioning from a western-style table saw to a Erika saw.
First of all, I'd like to first define what I mean by "western-style" table saw. By this, I mean to say, any portable, bench top table saw produced in the last 10 years in North America by such manufacturers as DeWalt, Makita, Bosch etc…., or stationary cabinet saws such as the ubiquitous Delta Unisaw or Powermatic PM66.
Features common to most western-style saws include:
One or more "T-tracks" recessed into the table surface. Usually, these tracks are 3/4" wide, 3/8" deep, with a "T" shape at the bottom to trap certain jigs. These T-tracks are used to allow for sliding miter jigs, or for affixing jigs such as feather boards.
Throat Plates: Most Western saws utilize a removable, replaceable "throat plate". Removal of the throat plate allows for access to the blade and spindle for blades changes. Typically, there are various throat plates available for a given saw that serve different functions, including Zero-Clearance throat plates and Dado throat plates.
Most newer saw have a modular blade guard system that allows for tool less removal and adjustment of the blade guard or riving knife.
Most bench top saws allow for attachment to either a folding "snap stand", or a rolling job site cart.
Most job site saws now allow for expanded ripping capacity, frequently out to 24". (I imagine that most Mafell users utilize a track saw to break down large sheet goods, so I'm going to go out a limb here and say most of us would be just fine with a more limited rip capacity).
Most saws feature a 2" dust port in the lower rear of the saw. The newest DeWalt saws also feature over-the-blade dust extraction.
Most table saws feature a front console that allows for adjustment to blade depth, power switch, and bevel adjustment.
What other features do you think are common to many Western Style table saws? I will edit this top entry with additional features.
First of all, I'd like to first define what I mean by "western-style" table saw. By this, I mean to say, any portable, bench top table saw produced in the last 10 years in North America by such manufacturers as DeWalt, Makita, Bosch etc…., or stationary cabinet saws such as the ubiquitous Delta Unisaw or Powermatic PM66.
Features common to most western-style saws include:
One or more "T-tracks" recessed into the table surface. Usually, these tracks are 3/4" wide, 3/8" deep, with a "T" shape at the bottom to trap certain jigs. These T-tracks are used to allow for sliding miter jigs, or for affixing jigs such as feather boards.
Throat Plates: Most Western saws utilize a removable, replaceable "throat plate". Removal of the throat plate allows for access to the blade and spindle for blades changes. Typically, there are various throat plates available for a given saw that serve different functions, including Zero-Clearance throat plates and Dado throat plates.
Most newer saw have a modular blade guard system that allows for tool less removal and adjustment of the blade guard or riving knife.
Most bench top saws allow for attachment to either a folding "snap stand", or a rolling job site cart.
Most job site saws now allow for expanded ripping capacity, frequently out to 24". (I imagine that most Mafell users utilize a track saw to break down large sheet goods, so I'm going to go out a limb here and say most of us would be just fine with a more limited rip capacity).
Most saws feature a 2" dust port in the lower rear of the saw. The newest DeWalt saws also feature over-the-blade dust extraction.
Most table saws feature a front console that allows for adjustment to blade depth, power switch, and bevel adjustment.
What other features do you think are common to many Western Style table saws? I will edit this top entry with additional features.