Bob Falk
09-18-2015, 9:47 AM
I am in the market for a track saw and have narrowed it down to the Makita or Dewalt (can't justify the cost of the Festool). I have read the million or so online threads on these saws and watched Youtube videos and I am still confused about track length. I want to be able to break down 8' sheet stock as well as cutting a straight edge on thicker 8' lumber (5/4 and sometimes 6/4).
The Dewalt has a 102" track and some reviews wish it was a bit longer as it is said that the saw nearly disengages as it reaches the end of the 8' cut. Is this really a problem? Can I cut FULL depth for an 8' length?
The Makita has a 118" track and I presume is enough length to support the saw for the full 8' length at full depth. True? Given the longer track length, will this saw cut longer than 8', say 8'2" or 8'3" and stay fully engaged on the track? That would be nice as a lot of rough lumber comes slightly longer than 8'.
One problem I am having with the 118" is storage in my modest sized shop. As I have 9' ceilings, I could store the 102" Dewalt rail vertically against a wall, however the Makita rail would require horizontal storage which is in short supply in my shop. Any thoughts on storing these longer rails?
I would also consider purchasing two shorter rails and connecting when needed, however I foresee a hassle with alternating between long cuts requiring connecting the rails and crosscuts needing only one rail. Thoughts about this?
Any input would be appreciated.
Thanks, bob
The Dewalt has a 102" track and some reviews wish it was a bit longer as it is said that the saw nearly disengages as it reaches the end of the 8' cut. Is this really a problem? Can I cut FULL depth for an 8' length?
The Makita has a 118" track and I presume is enough length to support the saw for the full 8' length at full depth. True? Given the longer track length, will this saw cut longer than 8', say 8'2" or 8'3" and stay fully engaged on the track? That would be nice as a lot of rough lumber comes slightly longer than 8'.
One problem I am having with the 118" is storage in my modest sized shop. As I have 9' ceilings, I could store the 102" Dewalt rail vertically against a wall, however the Makita rail would require horizontal storage which is in short supply in my shop. Any thoughts on storing these longer rails?
I would also consider purchasing two shorter rails and connecting when needed, however I foresee a hassle with alternating between long cuts requiring connecting the rails and crosscuts needing only one rail. Thoughts about this?
Any input would be appreciated.
Thanks, bob