Building stand - Table Saw help

[mademperor]

I want to buy a Table Saw to build a Stand, but I could use some input. My budget is about $250 new/used. I'm losing hope on getting anything decent at that price new.

Any suggestions on brand/model or what to look for in a used unit?

 

[Rbishop]

A bench top model...?

 

[mademperor]

A bench top model...?

I'd perfer it have a stand, but it doesn't have to be very portable. Just going in my basement.

 

[77710]

Try to find something with a cast iron top and a tight rip fence. The motor does not necessarily have to be top notch you may have to just go a bit slower. The cast iron top will make the saw run smoother. If the rip fence is bad it will make it heck to use it and dangerous too. I think if you can fit a full size cabinet saw then that’s the way to go. At least 24" of ripping capability will allow you to cut pretty much whatever you want. Even better would be a 48" but those are probably really out of your price range. Remember the more heavy built the saw, generally the more accurate, stable and safe it will be to use. That’s about all that comes to mind right now (kind of late I may think of more later)

As for brand and price, in your range any top brands will be out, even used. Your best bet will be to do what I did and try to find either a return, re-cert or floor model at like sears or home depot. I got a "nice" craftsman floor model for 60% off made it around $275

It’s like this but the older model
Saw at sears

Look on craigslist or in the newspaper. you may find a deal there.

 

[TwoTankAmin]

From Home Depot site:

Ryobi 10 In. Portable Table Saw

Model BTS15

$167.00/Each Free Shipping

Skil 10 In. Tabletop Saw

Model 3400-15

$199.00/Each Free Shipping

 

[DarkSoul]

I would go with the skill over the ryobi anyday, the extra cost will be well worth it in the long run.... and trust me, i know tools.

 

[red devil]

...and besides, the skill saw is red! hehehehehehe

 

[Plecosterone]

I have the skill for portability on the job. Not a bad saw for the price but if you get that one make sure add a piece of wood on the fence because they are not too straight. Also make sure it is adjusted properly for square or you will either bind the back of the blade or it will be too loose (for lack of a better word).

 

[wackydan]

Bah.... Get a decent circular saw instead. You can make accurate cuts by buying either a portable rip fence or making your own jig for it. It's easy and cheaper....

That said.... My Delta Hybrid Cabinet saw sits at the ready in the shop.

 

[Squawkbert]

I have an old Craftsman (cast iron deck, from the 70s). They'll pretty well run for ever, but you may have to adjust the arbor to get it square vs. the deck - this isn't easy as you have the "slop" of the clearance found in the 4 holes on the arbor, via which it is bolted to the deck to play with, so you have to loosen the bolts, square it up, adn *try* to keep it in place while tightening the bolts. *If* tightening the bolts doesn't realign things, you're good to go.

If you look around, old saws aren't that hard to find (cheap). If you go that route, be sure to buy it a new, carbide tipped blade.