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