Accurate cutting of panels

**Eightball** · 12th August 2007, 04:43 PM

Hi, guess I am what you would call a newbie. Have always enjoyed working with wood, only recently got serious about it. I would like some advice on what direction to take in a panel saw. i will be cutting up panels that have been made by joining 90X18mm mountain ash hardwood. I have a budget of $2000, should I get a good tablesaw like the 3hp carbatech and use the mitre gauge for cross cutting (panel widths shouldn't be any wider than about 800mm,though uo to a meter would be nice) or should I buy one of the table saws with a sliding table? Are the sliding table versions robust and acurate in this price range? What about a vertical panel saw? I want something that is accurate and hassel free to use.

**George** · 12th August 2007, 05:09 PM

Eightball, I don't think you will get anything like an 800 mm crosscut with a standrd mitre gauge. A homemade crosscut sled might give you 600 mm or so.

To crosscut 800-1000 mm accurately you will need a sliding table or a handheld circular saw with a straight edge guide. The Festool saw and guide rail system might be the go.

George

**Greg Q** · 12th August 2007, 05:15 PM

I will second the motion on the Festool saw with guide system. I have a combination machine with a slider-if I was going to replace it I'd certainly look at the Festool system. I have no direct experience with their saw, but read many reports of great results with it. The other Festools that I've used have been the best in their category that I've ever tried.

I don't know, but doubt that your $2000.00 would get you a table saw with a robust and accurate slider.

Greg

**LGS** · 12th August 2007, 06:18 PM

Hi Eightball,

I have the Festool saw and rail system and can tell you that it is fantastic. I have a TS75 and 3 different size rails. The cuts are so good that I can prepare butt joins using the saw and rail without any need for further preparation. The TS55 is a much lighter machine weight wise but is ideal for panels and for taking on site. For $2000.00 you could get the saw and a 1..4m rail, plus some extras, like extra rails,
Try http://www.festool.com.au/ and look up saws. Also, it is very quiet and the dust extraction is brilliant.

LGS

**Eightball** · 15th August 2007, 06:55 PM

Thanks guys, will let you know how I get on.

**journeyman Mick** · 15th August 2007, 07:15 PM

Or you could buy this saw for a paltry $1100. (As long as you've got plenty of room in the shed and access to 3 phase power

)

Mick

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