2020 Version Erika 85 - Thoughts/Impressions
Mar 15, 2020 18:08:08 GMT -5
lincoln, aas, and 2 more like this
Post by MrToolJunkie on Mar 15, 2020 18:08:08 GMT -5
I wanted to create a new thread on the new version of the Erika 85 and share some of my thoughts as I start to learn about this tool. Other experienced users, please chime in with your thoughts as well. There is just not a ton of information out there on this new model of saw, so I hope this will help prospective purchasers and generate some forum discussion.
OK - just got my Erika 85 set-up today and I had a chance to get the sliding table set up, plug, and run it through its paces.
Here is what I like so far:
What I need to learn or rethink in my process:
It is going to take practice for me to get used to it - there is definitely a learning curve and a need to think through each process and complete a set of tasks before moving to the next one or else lose efficiency in re-configuring the machine.
So far I have really liked using it in its basic configuration - since I happened to get mine second hand (although almost brand new), it came with most of the accessories. If I were buying it new, I might suggest prospective buyers try it in its basic form, maybe add the longer extension fence and drop stop as the first accessory for repeat crosscuts with the MFA and pull function and then build it out over time with additional accessories as the need evolves.
More to come...
OK - just got my Erika 85 set-up today and I had a chance to get the sliding table set up, plug, and run it through its paces.
Here is what I like so far:
- This is probably the most precise cutting machine I have used to date - cuts are absolutely spot on and no scoring on rips or crosscuts - amazing quality.
- This thing is ultra smooth - I could probably stand a dime on edge while running and it would not fall over - simply amazing.
- Love the pull function - did not realize how much I like this until using it - awesome.
- The light is not super bright, but it turns on when you touch the machine or activate it with vibration - it is a good indicator that there is power to the saw, which is probably its main intent vs. illuminating a cut line.
- MFA is very precise
- Sliding table is very smooth and precise once dialed in - not sure how useful this will be to me over time, but it is nice to know I have it if/when the need arises.
- Love the bevel - ultra precise, fast and controllable - awesome!
- Plenty of power and did I mention how smooth it is?
- Adaptable and flexible saw - configurable to the task at hand - which is nice to be able to do.
What I need to learn or rethink in my process:
- Not fast to switch between functions - i.e. ripping and cross-cutting - especially if adding the extension rails to take advantage of the stop and longer fence.
- No way to install the MFA if the sliding table installed - yes - not a huge thing, but I found I needed to make some cuts without the sliding table today for more stability/accuracy and I had to remove the slider to do so easily. Maybe I just use the right side of the machine, but it is more intuitive to use the MFA on the left in this operation.
- Dust collection from under the saw is great. The top hose is OK - my Festool Vac migh not have enough suction to effectively capture all the dust and chips.
- Tightening the MFA with the little knobs works, but I did struggle getting them tight a couple of times - might just need to be that they will loosen up a little after use or I need to swap them out with some after-market alternatives - time will tell.
It is going to take practice for me to get used to it - there is definitely a learning curve and a need to think through each process and complete a set of tasks before moving to the next one or else lose efficiency in re-configuring the machine.
So far I have really liked using it in its basic configuration - since I happened to get mine second hand (although almost brand new), it came with most of the accessories. If I were buying it new, I might suggest prospective buyers try it in its basic form, maybe add the longer extension fence and drop stop as the first accessory for repeat crosscuts with the MFA and pull function and then build it out over time with additional accessories as the need evolves.
More to come...