Which portable table saw should I get for about $500?
I've decided to take the plunge and upgrade from my old el-cheepo table saw. Now my question is which one should I get on my budget of about $500? I am a hobbyist currently working on some kitchen cabinets.
I have mainly been looking at the Bosch 4100-09 and the Ridged TS2410LS, but I am open to other suggestions as well.
I have looked at the Bosch and Ridged floor units at local stores. Here is what I have gleaned from the 'net and my own observations.
Bosch 4100-09
- Retails for $600, but CPO Tools has a $50 rebate right now or I can probably wrangle a Lowe's or Sears 10% discount.
- Can be purchased lots of places.
- Apparently there are significant upgrades from the previous 4000-09 model, including a safer guard system, T miter slots, better rip fence, and better dust collection.
- Lighter than the Ridged. The table is aluminum about 1/10" thick (I measured it in the store).
- From a stored position, I can setup the saw in a single motion.
- Several accessories can be purchased including left side and rear outfeed extensions.
- Only has a 1 year warranty, but there are several places nearby to service it.
- The unit I saw in the store did not have a smooth table top, which makes me wonder how well my panel jig will slide.
Ridged TS2410LS
- Retails for $450 at Home Depot, which is the only place that carries it.
- Basically the same as the previous TS2400LS model.
- Heavy. The table is aluminum about 1/5" thick.
- Takes some work to setup from its stored position. Lift and lock one side, then go around and lift and lock the other side.
- Has a 3 year warranty and a "lifetime service agreement", which sounds good, but makes me wonder if maybe they offer this because it needs lots of service.
- One place nearby for service.
So what do you folks think? Should I get the Ridged, the Bosch, or something else?
Perry
Just bought the Ridgid TS2410LS!
I haven't powered it up yet, but I am impressed with it so far! The stand was a bit confusing at first but now takes only a few seconds to put up, in my mind just as fast as the Makita jobsite style collapsing stand. The saw was right on alined from the factory other than the plastic pointer on the fence. I will post more thought of this saw after I use it a little. I will be using Freud Diablo blades instead of the factory included 28 tooth.