This is my first post on the forum but I have been reading it for a while and want to thank you all for providing so much helpful information.
I am a beginner and I'm still setting up my shop to use hand tools primarily, with power tools mixed in to help with dimensioning lumber. I could use your advice on my next power tool purchase.
In terms of tools for dimensioning, right now I have a 14" band saw (which I use to rip and resaw), a bench top planer, and a circular saw with a guide rail (not my favorite thing to use), plus a decent complement of bench places (scrub, no. 7, LAJ, No. 4). I am in a 1-car garage and don't have room for a table saw.
I primarily plan on building furniture using solid hardwoods, with occasional use of sheet goods.
I recently watched the FWW tour of Vic Tesolin's shop (thus my "apprentice" reference) and saw he uses a track saw/Multi-function table to do cross cuts and other tasks, and also has a 14" band saw and a thickness planer. I was wondering about the benefits/downsides of this setup for hand tool-focused shops.
I'm torn between a couple of options:
1. Go the Tesolin route and add a tracksaw (I'd like one with a riving knife, so a Festool or Dewalt) plus a Multifunction-style table (I would probably build this using the Parf guide drilling system). The benefits seem to be cross-cutting, ripping/jointing board edges, breaking down the occasional sheet goods, and dust collection. The table could also double for assembly, so maybe that saves me some space. I know I may very well be missing some downsides.
2. Buy a miter saw (I've been looking at the Bosch glide due to capacity). Obviously this is a more specialized option, but would it suit my needs just as well, or better?
Thanks so much for your help. - Dan