A plunge cut track saw can also make straight cuts fast and smoothly, despite not having as powerful a motor. Kreg ACS-SAW Triton TTS1400 And with a range from $300-700 for a saw and track there's a quality saw for every budget. Chad Stanton 66.6K subscribers 134K views 3 years ago Track Saws are all the rage, but when it comes to buying one what features should you look. And with more saws each year bringing Lithium cutting capability these brands are where to start: From the high end Festool to popular cordless brands like Dewalt expect to pay a $100 to $200 premium for portability, though. Triton TTSCS3000 22 x 3000mm Plunge Track Saw Track Cut Strips . While this saw is not as well built as a Makita or Festool overall reports on the saw are good. Capable of cutting depths up to 2 , the DEWALT DWS520K track saw uses a low-profile blade guard so you can get right next to the action. Explore. The Festool 55 Req-F-Plus is the Cadillac of track saws. Their circular blade allows you to make solid cuts in all kinds of materials. Everything I have bought from Kreg has been money well spent. Features, as expected, are overall very close to the corded Makita saw. Whenever this need arises, they often use a jig to guide their cutting, A good band saw helps you cut through metal, wood, and various other materials without a hassle. But after a lot of research I ended up with a cordless Makita. Festool is know for innovative and high performing tools. The Festool track has a nifty zero-clearance strip on the blade side. The Grizzly saw freely accepts the standard Festool extractor hose. The DEWALT DSC520ST1 track saw is a sturdy machine that offers solid performance, but the price is rather high all things considered. The Makita SP6000J1 uses magnesium components to provide durability while maintaining the machines light weight. The blade can cut pieces up to 2 , making it highly useful. A built-in depth stop lets you make a shallow scoring pass that eliminates chip-out before making the full-depth parting cut. The Shop Fox W1835 track saw is definitely a budget offering compared to its competitors. Compare $ 149 00 (32) Model# 71387. The track saw is equipped with a sharp 48-tooth blade that measures 8 and cuts deep through a variety of wood and sheet materials that are 2 thick. Most importantly, it also features one of my favorite features of a circular saw: a blade-left design that allows us right-handed users the ability to see the blade and action without leaning over sideways during the cut. It is also called a plunge saw or plunge-cut saw since the saw plunges into the material for a thorough cut. Best for Occasional Use: DEWALT DWS520K; 8. Circular saws and track saws may look very similar, but they are designed for different tasks. Compare $ 64 00 (63) Model# CT9502. While a circular saws accuracy in cutting wood is not the best, it can also cut metal. Track saws have quickly become a staple in most woodworking shops. While not as slick as the dust extractor, a viable option. Makita SP6000J. Couple differences to know: 1) Kreg uses 3/4" dog holes and Festool uses 20mm. (2) CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. The Bosch GKT13-225L achieves its precise plunge cuts with an easy-to-use plunge mechanism. Track Saw vs. Table Saw: Whats the Difference? You need both of your hands on deck as well as all of your attention and strength as theyre, Woodworkers often make cuts on wood slabs that are repeated on different types of fine woodworking projects. This track saw is ideal for professionals and perfectionists that dont mind spending more money for higher quality. Plus, the plunge cut design and riving knife automatically retract the blade into a full-cover blade guard when not in use. A track saw with a larger blade enables you to cut through thicker materials. Wheels are off the ground when using. The materials and build quality of the Festool 55 Req-F-Plus are top-notch, which is good because this is not a cheap tool. This brings you more portability and ease of use. Another important factor is whether the saw is corded or cordless. . Kreg is also known for manufacturing high-quality power tools, so it would do you good if you have the ACS2000 in your tool shed. The Makita XPS01PTJ can be purchased as a kit with included batteries and case or as a bare tool for some nice cost savings if you already have compatible batteries. A dull or damaged blade will increase your work time, create rough cuts on your materials, and it might be unsafe for you. While the DEWALT DWS520K product is called a kit, it doesnt come with a guide track so youll need to shell out some extra clams if you want one. I use it all the time and love it. It only reaches out to a couple of feet however so it may not be appropriate for all uses. Using the right saw blades for your track saw is vital. 12 Unique Woodworking Tools You Didnt Know You Needed, After twenty years of collecting tools Im still finding unique woodworking tools that I didnt know I needed. The content is created by The Woodsmith Review Team. Makita makes durable and capable machines, and the Makita XPS01PTJ is no exception to that rule. Best for Occasional Use: DEWALT DWS520K, 8. With the ability to cut at multiple angles, lengths, and depths, the track saw is a handy companion that can help keep you safe and productive. There are a number of factors that come into play when you are considering a track saw for yourself. SgtEddieWinslow 1 yr. ago I have the kreg accu cut track jig. Not only does it have a powerful motor, a sharp blade, and a cordless feature, but it also provides the best value for money. And then fold everything back up and use the space for your other tools. Some customers recommend adding a 9.0 AH battery to increase speed and cutting power for heavier projects. BEST HEAVY-DUTY: CMT PGC-50 Professional Straight Edge Clamp. It deliberately comes oversize so that you can cut it right to the edge of the saw blade. The best drawer slides combine features like full extension and soft closing with durability for decades of use. You probably know all about man-handling track saws and how beneficial they are in terms of streamlining time-consuming tasks around the workshop. The SP6000J1 optional but advantageous 55 guide rail system comes from robust anodized aluminum. Weve looked at some excellent track saws from Festool and Makita and such, but it all comes back to what you want and need from a track saw. There is some plastic used throughout to keep the price down, but the overall build quality is pretty great. Take note that this may vary, depending on where you are buying your Festool track saw. While this doesnt impact the performance of the saw, it is likely to cause the tool and track to wear out faster than more expensive track saws made from sturdier materials. Track Saws are all the rage, but when it comes to buying one what features should you look for? If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. While other tools can get the job done for less, the Festool 55 Req-F-Plus gets the job done reliably and to an exactness required by professional carpenters and woodworkers. Track saws, for one, are great at making cuts in longer pieces. The Festool TS 55 REQ saw kit includes an impressive 55 saw track and the included track guide ensures precise cuts. Bevel range of 0-48. Equipped with the proper tools, you can tackle any job thats set in front of you. Web/Phone: www.grizzly.com / 800-523-4777. As a result, the Kreg saw can be utilised with Festool and Freud blades. The performance of the DEWALT DSC520ST1 track saw is solid, but its lack of features combined with its rather low battery runtime makes for a lower price to performance ratio. However, the 3-year limited warranty may be the deciding factor for buyers that want to make sure their money is well spent. If you find yourself limited with that particular tool, and you have the space to add a table saw, you can graduate to one. Fits to guide track system for smooth, precise straight and bevel cutting. High Points. Thus, you can move the material along the intended cutting track. Soft-grip handles. They also arent designed to cut into the middle of materials like track saws areallowing for more flexibility with a track saw in that regard. Last but not least, we bring you the WEN CT1065 Plunge Cut Sidewinder Circular Track Saw, which is one of the best options when you have affordability and value in mind. Goodell David, Founder of WoodWorking Clarity, says, If you do a lot of quick jobs or work mainly from your shop, you dont need a cord.However, you will have to change the batteries from time to time, which can be cumbersome, especially if the track saw dies down in between a cutting job. Keep an eye out for the features that matter most to you but remember that more features almost always mean a higher price tag as well. "I got my Festool track saw about 15 years ago. The Tool Scout is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. With these saws its best to consider them in two categories to help split budget vs. features and capability. At roughly 18 lbs., this track saw is a bit of a honker and can be a pain to lug around. Guide rails clamp to your work, so having to hold the saw down is not as necessary. Best Basic Track Saw: Shop Fox W1835, 9. Although our list saw some of the best track saws from Bosch and Festool, we have just one track saw we can declare a real winner: the Makita SP6000J1. Which means this type of saw needs to be connected to at least one accessory. Dust cleanup is easy too. A Dewalt fast charger can help make the motor move from 2,000 to 5,500 rpm fast. You can't really judge that without putting the saw to use in the field. The Festool TSC 55 is almost identical to its corded counterpart with the exception of a dual 18/36V battery system powering the blade. It is an efficient and heavy-duty tool that you would enjoy using for your project. The edge guide is reversible and allows for left- or right-handed use, making this an excellent and versatile option for circular saw owners that want to get more precise cuts up to 24 in length without breaking the bank for a new tool. A few models even have a hose that vacuums debris from the work surface as you go. And the Makita saw keeps up their quality reputation with a saw that is highly rated, has all of the top features in this category of tool, and is a tool most professionals would start with if Festool wasnt around. Bet it's finicky to use. We talk more about the differences between these saw types later, but for now, lets go over the specific things you should look for when buying a track saw. Whether you need to make straight cuts or carve customized fancy shapes out, 2023 Woodsmith Cruz Bay Publishing, Inc. an Active Interest Media company, This is another major factor that comes into play when you are considering the best track saw. Doing so allows the blade to move back and forth and control the cutting depth. The Kreg ACS3000 track saw kit includes a quality track saw capable of cutting to a maximum depth of 2 . The price to performance offered by the Makita SP6000J1 is excellent for DIYers and hobbyists, but the reliability and cutting performance isnt quite up to snuff for more serious users. However, where Festool has major distribution channels, and thus better parts availability, youll have to go to a few specialty dealers like Timberwolf Tools or other sources. The Kreg Adaptive Cutting System is a track-guided circular saw you can use for cutting materials with accuracy and precision. Plunge lock for safety enhancement. Cutting Capacity: 131 32 " @ 90; 17 16 " @ 45. The DEWALT DWS520K track saw comes with a 3-year limited warranty and a 90-day money-back guarantee for a worry-free purchase. However, issues with quality control have left a bad taste in many customers mouths when they received this track saw with a warped base plate. While the Makita SP6000J1 is available with a guide track and connector kit, the connector doesnt provide the best experience as the guide tracks dont always line up perfectly. And it also has the tracks, brand reputation and performance that make it a solid pick for both professionals and serious hobbyists. The 60 volt battery provides great power for slicing through thick materials, but its runtime is a bit lacking. When it comes to corded track saws, you can find a track saw with a 10A to 20A output. The Woodsmith Review Teams product reviews and in-depth guides are here to help you choose the best tools and gear to build great-looking projects confidently. The primary drawback of the DEWALT DWS520K track saw aside from its price are some issues with its design. Now working from a home woodworking shop Eric is sharing his passion for woodworking, tool advice and how-to knowledge from his Minnesota-based woodshop. The included guide track provides a strong grip to help keep your cuts straight even without the use of clamps. This may seem odd, but many track saws are sold without an included track. The Kreg ACS2000 also has standard safety features like kickback and binding protection. Unnecessary objects might damage the saw if you do not clear the blade path. A track saw can help you measure one piece of stock and then make exact duplicates. Differences between Kreg ACS and Festool MFT The MFT works better with a dust vacuum, whereas the ACS has an effective dust collection system. keeping your fingers attached to your hand. However, you will have to change the batteries from time to time, which can be cumbersome, especially if the track saw dies down in between a cutting job. Capable of cutting up to 2 deep, the Kreg ACS2000 provides excellent cutting power. The Kreg Plunge Taack Saw alone retails for $299.99, but you can purchase a kit that includes a 62" track for $399.99. However, its cutting performance and safety features are top of the line. Safety-wise, the Kreg model comes with a riving knife, among other anti-kickback tools. Especially if youre on a schedule, table saws make several equal cuts quickly. Adjusting it before each use ensures proper safety and quality work. Including me. Track Saw vs Table Saw And When To Use Each, The Best Cordless Table Saws For Woodworking, The Best Router for Router Table Mounting, Most saws support same size blade and features, 10-year test: doesnt depend on old batteries from a brand, Bevel cuts with range from -1-degree to 48-degrees (with positive stops at 22.5 and 45-degrees), Can cut as close as 11/16 of an inch from the wall, Dust port with 1-1/2 outside diameter for connection to dust extractors, Soft start feature like youd find in similar high end routers, Soft start that prevents the saw from jumping when engage, Cut depth of 2-1/8, 1-5/8 at 45-degrees, Continuous anti-kickback only allows forward motion of saw, Cut depth of 2-1/8, 1-1/2 at 45-degrees, Retractable riving knives, splinter guards, 1200 watt motor with variable speed and electronic speed management for constant speed, Retractable riving knives, splinter guards, plunge operation, FastFix system for blade changing that locks the arbor and switch at the same time, Converting your existing circular saw to a track saw, Support for almost any saw left or right handed. Track saws are incredibly versatile and powerful tools that can help ease the burden of work for DIYers and professional woodworkers alike. You cant simply make a list of the best track saws out there, and leave Festool out of it. Its optional but advantageous 55 guide rail system comes from robust anodized aluminum. I didn't know Kreg was getting into the game I'm a bit surprised they did the whole deal with plunge saw and all. A table saw stays still while you move the material through the blade. The optimal cutting depth is usually 1/8, but it should not go so deep that it threatens the saws function. The Festool 55 Req-F-Plus is a powerful and precise track saw that offers great reliability and safety features. And the track quality is as equally important to a great cut as the saw itself. The main difference is that with this plunge saw, you have a safety interlock that prevents plunging or turning on the saw before depressing the switch interlock button. You can use this model by itself or pair it with the Project Table Kit for extra perks. On the downside, the Makita XPS01PTJ is a bit on the expensive side, especially considering it doesnt come with an included track. Mafell is another German made saw, and is arguably better than the Festool based on reviews and user reports. Similar to the DOMINO and Kapex miter saw quality their saw does what you expect: straight, splinter free cuts. Cleanup is also easy since you can connect it to a suitable vacuum cleaner for dust collection. There is a fair amount of plastic used in the construction of the DEWALT DWS520K track saw, which is a bit of a drag considering the price they are asking; however, this saw does a great job nonetheless. I recently picked up the Kreg ACS track saw and after using it for about a week I feel like it's just okay. You can also take your materials to the saw instead of the other way around. Festool makes quality machines and components, but you can expect to pay more for the privilege of owning them compared to their competitors. You might want to check the recent post history, someone had tried something similar, beveling with the Festool track saw and the angles, while close still needed to be fine tuned by shooting. Each one of them has been designed for specific purposes, and if you are looking for a saw that cuts through sheets of wood or longer pieces of lumber, a track saw is a perfect choice for you. For professionals a Festool is considered to be the premium saw due to its anti-splinter and kickback technology. However, for repeated cuts, it does take longer to set up. john_c2 | Aug 01, 2021 07:38am . Since these cordless saws will use batteries you already own the $150-200 savings there can override any overall tool performance. You can use this model by itself or pair it with the Project Table Kit for extra perks. The Festool 55 Req-F-Plus is one of the most expensive but also most capable track saws on the market. (Not a Festool fanboy, and too much $$$). Never underestimate the usefulness of guide rails. It offers fantastic accuracy and smooth cutting power that can slice through just about anything you put in front of it. There are plenty of excellent track saws from Kreg and Festool. Best Premium Track Saw: Festool 55 Req-F-Plus; 3. A circular saw, miter saw, or some other saw just cant compete with a track saw for this purpose. While corded track saws provide you with more power, cordless track saws are more portable and easy to operate. The Makita XPS01PTJ offers variable speed control with automatic speed adjustment technology that optimizes its torque while you cut. Bosch GKT13-225L 6-1/2" Plunge Track Saw Kit, 4. Festool TS 55 REQ Plunge Cut Track Saw Kit, 5. A track saw is precisely what it sounds like: a saw with a guide rail track that allows you to make better cuts in wood. A standard 6 1/2-inch blade comes with the model, along with a bevel capacity of -1 to 48 degrees. And with more saws each year bringing Lithium cutting capability these brands are where to start: Makita XPS01Z Almost all woodworkers own a circular saw. And has performed incredibly well in thick and thin cuts. During blind plunge cuts, you cannot always see the route your blade will take. Many track saws have handles to help you with this. When I went looking for the best track saw for my workshop I figured it would be a Festool or possibly Milwaukee. There are also hand-held and even table saws you can lock onto your work table. But first, for some metric clarity, the 55 vs. 75 models is simply the maximum depth of cut (2-1/8 vs. 3). Track Saw Rail. And, since your dust extractor wont always be around, you can use the supplied dust bag to catch the dust youll generate. One of the best aspects of track saws is their ability to repeat the same cut reliably and keep everything at just the right angle. The track saw is equipped with a sharp 48-tooth blade that measures 8 " and cuts deep through a variety of wood and sheet materials that are 2 " thick. The Makita XPS01PTJ is an excellent choice for carpenters and DIYers that find themselves hampered by corded power tools and want the flexibility to cut anywhere. However, it may require a fair bit of fiddling around with to get it to perform at the level you need. Most likely the best track saw youll ever use, Festools track saws and accessories are quite expensive, Provides excellent cutting power and precision, Tends to produce more dust than other track saws, Plastic construction offers less durability than more expensive materials, Offers low dust cutting, with vacuum attached, Everything you need to get started with track saws, Plastic used throughout, reducing overall durability, Incredibly low price compared to competitors, Great cutting performance on sheet materials, Requires some modifications to get better cuts, Backed by a 1-year manufacturers warranty, Quality control issues have led to uneven base plates for many purchaser. A track saw that has variable speeds between 2000 RPM and 5000 RPM is generally favorable for your requirements. The saw is embedded with electronic speed control and a current limiter that will maintain how fast it goes under any load and prevent the motor from burning out. Learning how to make a cribbage board can be as easy as cutting a piece of wood to length, using a template to drill the holes and applying a simple finish. The Bosch GKT13-225L saw kit, comparable to a Festool, combines the best plunge action track saw features. 48 in. Many track saws have dust ports that redirect the dust into a bag. In this guide learn the tips and tricks to making this classic game. While it wont have the features or performance of a true track saw, combining your circular saw with the Kreg KMA2685 circular saw guide provides you with an inexpensive way to get clean, even cuts. So with that in mind the 6-1/4 blade on the Festool 55 will cut just about all the plywood and hardwood you can throw at it. The Bosch GKT13-225L track saw also comes with a 1-year manufacturer warranty. A: If you are looking to make long and accurate cuts, track saws are worth it. Circular saws can be used in conjunction with guide tracks like this one, but they still wont offer as precise or clean of a cut and theyll create a lot more dust compared to quality track saws. By pairing table-saw accuracy with portability and plunge action this saw allows for maximum portability and safety. It can also maintain speed under demanding projects. And with these saws featuring dust collection bags vs. attached dust collectors you can be free of two cords and not just one. Since features are the name of the game, heres what the Makita SP6000J offers up: Be sure to check around for a bundle, but if you want to start with just the saw and a guide rail you can always buy up other accessories later. The Kreg Saw has a splinter guard, a riving knife, and a dust bag. - Editor. The Kreg ACS3000 track saw kit comes with an included 62 guide track and a collapsible project table so you can hit the ground running with a single purchase. Unlike table saws, track saws are portable and can be taken to the material instead of having to pull what you want to cut over to a table saw. While circular saws and table saws perform similar duties, the track saw is a unique piece of equipment that provides the benefits of a portable circular saw with the reliability and precision of a table saw. Copyright (c) 2023 LEAN Woodworking LLC. Disclosures: (1) If you click a link on this site and buy something I will earn a commission. Track saws are hard to carry around since you have both the saw and its accompanying guide rail. Currently using a Dewalt 20V circ saw and Bora edge guide, but looking to upgrade to either Kreg or Makita track saw and track. Looking for a larger cut capacity? Circular saws are the more common workshop power tools. Doing so reduces tear-out and splintering in the material and increases operator safety. The variable speed dial gives users the freedom to adjust and work with different materials. We were just too impressed with its splinter-free precise cuts, produced with a powerful 12 amp motor. One of the most important things to look at when buying a track saw is whether or not the product actually comes with a track. Can you use a Wen track saw on a Makita track? UPGRADE PICK: Bora 5-Piece NGX Set. / Bevel Tilt Range: 0 to 45. When youre not using the saw, put a blade guard over any exposed blades. The low cost of this unit is its main selling point and if you arent too worried about getting things perfect, the Shop Fox W1835 track saw may be right for you. In this hands on guide learn how to build a top and follow along with our build of a 2-inch maple butcher block top. In general, track saws tend to be a fair bit more expensive than circular saws despite looking and functioning similarly. Luckily, a spring-loaded riving knife and anti-kickback mechanism prevent kickback, and a straight plunge mechanism makes it easier to use. Well, they are one of the top 3 brands that youll find on big box and specialty tool supplier shelves. Track saws have become largely popular in the past decade, mainly due to the DIY movement. Which, by all reviews and specifications is the superior tool. Luckily, the Festool track guide and the saw itself stay firmly in place. A plunge circular saw just means that the blade will plunge into the material youre cutting. More expensive than equally capable machines, the DEWALT DWS520K track saw relies pretty heavily on its brand name. Track saws and circular saws can be difficult to tell apart. Advantages of the track saw I use, a DeWalt, include the 106 inch track, riving knife, anti kickback piece in saw base, easy adjustment of the saw to the track, good dust collection, the plunge action, and extras like the router attachment for the track. Youll need to define your needs to find the best track saw to suit your purpose. Watch. Makita SP6000J1 6-1/2" Plunge Track Saw Kit, 3. Here are our top five picks for the best track saws available, including all your favorite brands, like Festool, Kreg, and Bosch. We hope you have fun on your next woodworking project with one of the best. The blade lock can be a bit of a chore to figure out, and some users have reported that it doesnt seem to work at all. You should never run a blade when the cutting path is not clear. 5 Best Track Saws of 2021: 1. Chad Stanton explains what he likes and doesn't like in this comparison video of Festool vs. Kreg track saws.Kreg tack saw with track- https://amzn.to/2x1qlIaFestool Track saw with track- https://amzn.to/33omUauWOODWORKING PLANS-http://www.woodchoppintime.com/store/newsletter- http://bit.ly/2FsWOcNVisit Us at http://www.woodchoppintime.comLike Us on Facebook: http://facebook.com/woodchoppintime/Follow Us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/woodchoppintime/Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/wood_choppin_time/?hl=en While there is no replica or copycat of the Festool DOMINO there are a few tools that make a loose tenon joint. Woodsmith is reader-supported: When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. While initially more expensive if you are not invested in Festool or Makita batteries, these saws are fully feature and power capable. At first I couldn't quite get the hang of this interlock switch, but after a few minutes of getting acquainted with the tool, I had no trouble. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Bora 36 NGX Clamp Edge Straight Cut Guide. (5) Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc, or its affiliates. Table saws and track saws are both good at quickly repeating the same cut over and over, but table saws require a lot more room to operate optimally. And combining a dust hose, power cord and tracks makes for a tangle. The company has been making premium quality and highly useful track saws since a long time, and one of its best products is the Festool 575389 Plunge Cut Track, which is known to provide a great deal of utility and versatility. This website uses cookies to improve your experience and track site visits. A track saw is a powerful tool, and you need to hold it down to prevent injury and ensure proper and precise cuts. Track saws have pivoting shoes so that they can make all kinds of cuts at different angles. Most of the track saws feature 6 blades that can cut through materials that are up to 2 thick. However, if you are debating a corded vs. cordless saw at this price point youre very close to the base Festool price. So why cant I just convert my saw to a track saw, you might be asking? A comfortable rubberized grip provides desirable ergonomic comforts to minimize hand fatigue for extended use. Home Tools Power Tools Saws Track Saw Guide: Choosing The Right Cordless Or Corded Model, Track Saw Guide: Choosing The Right Cordless Or Corded Model. My saw also follows the track well without burning the wood or doing other undesirable things. Easily accessible shaftlock aids fast, convenient blade-change. The track saw is also great if youre working in tight spaces and need a more mobile power tool. The latter two will be the subject of today's article as we answer the question whether the tracks are interchangeable. They are fast, easy to operate, and are suitable for a wide range of materials, such as plywood, fiberboard, and lumber. It makes straight cuts and I like the length of the rail (62 inches) but I've had some issues as well. The motor is also quite loud and doesnt deliver as much power as its competitors. The Pocket-Hole Jig 520 is the most versatile jig yet from Kreg with features that adapt and adjust to suit your project-building needs.
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