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Post by MrToolJunkie on Nov 7, 2014 0:49:05 GMT -5
Hi everyone,
Getting ready to pull the trigger. I need help determining which of these saws to get. It is $230 difference between the two saws. So, which would you get and why? Consider that I am buying this primarily as a ripping tool to help me break down large timber. Most of my work is in a shop. I have a very well equipped shop with access to all the major stationary equipment, including a large cabinet saw and Kapex miter saw.
The main advantages to the KSS80 obviously is the track and being able to quickly cross-cut 90 degrees and various angles wider than the SCMS and faster than using a sled on the cabinet saw. Aside from that, there is no tool case, which I prefer to keep my tools in for transport and storage. Now, I am a member of another forum and can get easy access to free Sortimo boxes so I can get an L-Boxx 4, but no insert - I would have to make something or use foam or something - so I can get part way there with a different color box and make-shift insert.
The K85 is less money and includes the case and insert. Using the angle fence seems like a pretty good alternative and most of my cuts with this saw I anticipate needing to be at 90 degrees, so the need to cut lots of different repeatable angles is probably not as big of a factor.
However, this is a make it and live with it decision since the bases are different so I want to make sure I do not make a costly mistake here. I would rather not spend the money if I do not have to, but at this price point it is not a deal breaker either and I would rather spend it if that functionality is something I will eventually need.
I know those of you with the KSS system love it, and I have no doubt it is awesome, but I do not want to buy for the sake of buying and do not want have regrets if I do not get it.
So - what you do if you were making the choice and why? Member muuiska had some great thoughts on his rationale and I agree with where he was coming from.
Appreciate the help in advance!
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Post by jonathan on Nov 7, 2014 4:57:56 GMT -5
I wouldn't skimp on an extra $230. When you're already spending a large amount on this tool, you'll want to get everything out of it, and the KSS rail is a huge part of this tool's functionality and appeal.
I'm sure the KSS rail will find more uses than you initially think, and you'll be happy you got the full package that allows you to utilize the tool to it's full potential.
Just my thouths but I've personally always regretted it when I went for the cheapest solution. Although I completely understand the price tag of acquiring Mafell tools is a tough pill to swallow  |
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Post by wrightwoodwork on Nov 7, 2014 5:25:03 GMT -5
Think I agree with that as well. I know I would properly go for the kss version simply because the cost savings in purchase are not really enough. Once you start using you will simply see how it improves your work flow. At work just doing a silly porch roof I don't need bevals or squares. I simply guessed the plum cut to start with. Checked it looked right against where it was to go. Which it was. From that I know both my seat cut and plumb cut angles. I can then simply cut them all too the right size and angle then put them together mark where the birds mouth is one and cut the plumb cut of the birds mouths in one go this keeps them all in line and gives me the point where the seat cut will be and cut make the cut and just finish the tiny bit the saw dont cut
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Post by MrToolJunkie on Nov 7, 2014 18:20:56 GMT -5
Took everyone's sage advice and placed an order today for the KSS80 and goodies. I am out of town all of next week on vacation so will get it when I return. Now I have something to look forward to even after my vacation.
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Post by wrightwoodwork on Nov 7, 2014 18:39:52 GMT -5
Early Christmas present to yourself then. I don't think you'll regret it, look forward to some vids of it in action
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Post by MrToolJunkie on Nov 7, 2014 18:42:02 GMT -5
Thanks...Super excited. I decided to hold off on the angle fence for the time being since I am not planning on using it for sheet goods, just solid timber and the cross-cut rail will accommodate most of those cuts in solid timber. Got all the blades and a 1.6 rail to go with the 1.6 I already have. Figured that should get me by for awhile.
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Post by thedude306 on Nov 8, 2014 11:01:33 GMT -5
Very nice Scott! Great purchase. I am hoping the dollar rebounds a little to help with my purchase.
I think you will be REALLY happy with the KSS system. Congrats again.
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Post by MrToolJunkie on Nov 8, 2014 11:50:41 GMT -5
Thanks, Brad. Looking forward to it - been researching it for awhile. Something like this is better to take your time and make sure it is the right tool before spending the money. Probably did more research on this one than any other tool purchase, LOL. Hope you can get your purchases this year - I know that they would come in handy for your house build. If i were in similar shoes I would just factor them into the cost of the house and get them in spite of the dollar, but that is just me.
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Post by 7 on Nov 9, 2014 0:37:37 GMT -5
I have been busy and couldn't respond before your purchase with my opinion between the kss & K. I think you made the right choice. The kss rails install and remove so fast & easy. It's nice to stay working at the same table moving the saw instead of the larger peices of wood.
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Post by woodie on Nov 9, 2014 13:36:10 GMT -5
Congrats on the saw, you're going to love it! Sorry I wasn't able to chime in on questions. Work's been crazy and keeping up with family obligations... ahh the excuses could go on and on. Sadly I just haven't had much time to post  . |
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Post by MrToolJunkie on Nov 15, 2014 11:48:57 GMT -5
Thanks guys. Arrives on Monday and I cannot wait. I also ordered a 1.1 rail for shorter cuts and flexibility. More new is supposedly the Silver Edition saw, do the special color scheme...guess it does not really matter.
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Post by wrightwoodwork on Nov 16, 2014 13:09:47 GMT -5
Took everyone's sage advice and placed an order today for the KSS80 and goodies. I am out of town all of next week on vacation so will get it when I return. Now I have something to look forward to even after my vacation. you have deffenitley made the right choice going for the more powerful kss80 saw over kss 400. If I remember correctly you work more with hardwoods than I do. Just done a comparison video using both kss400 saws to rip 32mm oak. Both did ok. I just wouldn't want to use them all time to rip oak. For the occasional time they are fine. where using the more powerful ksp85 was almost like cutting butter and will be the same with the kss80 saw |
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Post by MrToolJunkie on Nov 16, 2014 14:19:46 GMT -5
Yeah...I think that this is the right saw for my needs. I could see pairing it with a 300 if the size/weight is a real nuisance and for the smaller stuff.
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Post by thedude306 on Nov 16, 2014 21:43:36 GMT -5
Yeah...I think that this is the right saw for my needs. I could see pairing it with a 300 if the size/weight is a real nuisance and for the smaller stuff. Do you ever get the feeling you need them all. I've been watching videos on that KSS300 tonight and it sure is a sweet little saw. I'm very excited to read a report on your new saw when it arrives! |
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Post by MrToolJunkie on Nov 17, 2014 0:14:54 GMT -5
Yeah...I think that this is the right saw for my needs. I could see pairing it with a 300 if the size/weight is a real nuisance and for the smaller stuff. Do you ever get the feeling you need them all. I've been watching videos on that KSS300 tonight and it sure is a sweet little saw. I'm very excited to read a report on your new saw when it arrives! LOL...yes, one of each! Well, I need the KSS80 size for what I need to cut, so initially it is the right saw. I could see adding an MT55 to the mix and a 300, but for now the 80 will do just fine, I think. I have the Festool track saw so an MT is not as high a priority. I will be shooting some video of it in action and will post when complete -- but, it will take several weeks for that as it is a lot of work to set up and shoot, edit, etc... |
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