Triton Worcentre + Router Table... or go with something newer?

I nearly bought a Triton Workcentre & separate router table the other day, but then thought I should check in here first.

I like how Triton stuff can be folded up and stored out of the way, but there are other dedicated portable tablesaws now like Makita, Bosch, Dewalt... and I've read comments over the years like, "Triton was good to start woodworking, but I soon realized xyz and traded up to...", along with comments that gave the impression Triton produces mediocre results more often than not, is difficult to align properly, etc. e.g. I think I read something about the fence not being the same distance on both sides, the saw bench top on many weren't flat from the factory, and think I read the router table has limitations/lacks features... I'm not sure, I think something about not having "inserts" or able to position it where you want it!? I think I've read the dust extraction bucket isn't great as well.

Basically I don't know, what I don't know.

So I guess I'm wondering, would I be better off buying a newer dedicated portable table saw and router tables that have cast aluminium tops - are they more accurate, have more features, produce better results?

Edit: Oops... and I'm referring to the older Australian stuff - not the newer UK ones.

I started with the triton saw bench and router, no regrets there
I managed to carry out projects in an above average manner
after a while as I progressed I started to experience the limitations of the triton

I have upgraded bit by bit spending a lot more to get what I wanted
I still have the triton routers and circular saw because I feel they are very good quality

in saying that my old triton saw and router table was fairly easy to sell as they are still well respected by the home hobbyist

If you are looking at the one on market place in the port stevens area, its a good buy, it has quality inclusions in the deal

when the time comes and you want to upgrade you will sell it easy enough

I would give it a go

Hodgo

I have TWO series 2000 workcentres with all the available attachments; one is permanently set up in the overhead mode with a saw and a router dedicated to it. It is accurate to within a millimeter because I took the time to set them up properly.

Thing is though; I only use power tools for breaking down, roughing out or for sheet goods. I never glue sawn edges no matter how expensive or spruiked the blade is; I mark out using knife edges and joint & shoot to lines with hand planes. Only a panel saw with a scribing blade would tempt me... but it would only save a little bit of time because I'd still be finishing off by hand.

I say go for it and use it to work out what sort of woodworker you want to be:

• Pure power tools? It's a stepping stone to something "better".
• Hybrid power/hand tools? It's all you need.
• Pure hand tools? You'll onsell it for a good price.

I think it is perfectly possible to attain accuracy to 0.5mm on a 2000.

I started out with a Triton MKIII (I think it was that) in 1987. Later on around 20 years ago I picked up their best unit the 2000 with all accessories for a very good price. This included a separate router table with dedicated Triton router.

I also have the Triton planer it has been remarkably good. Essentially using the outrigger system I can cut down huge sheets of man made material to a pretty close size, then incremental bits of material until I reach the desired size.

Below are some of the many things you can do with the Triton and the as for the dust collection, I built a dedicated box directly under the table top which drops everything and is aided by a dust extraction system. I have very little dust in my shed as a result.

I have at times been tempted to get a trade quality table saw with a cast tabletop, but to be honest the Triton for my usage has been perfect; once I did my modifications that is.

They aren't perfect, but for the price and some elbow grease in building some accessories, it is one of the better cheap units around.

Mick.

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I have essentially the same setup being a wood machinist I find it does the job have a dedicated rip saw and router bench .[I note you tried to trap the dust]

I assume you have purchased a saw setup by now but FWIW
I’ve had a MK3 since early 90’s up until 18 months ago, before the ability of cheaper overseas product availability. At the time I spent a weeks wages, so to speak, to improve on a circular saw and a straight edge.
it served me well and for maybe the last 10 years I had yearned for a dedicated table saw, which I now have, is it better than a triton, yes. Do I miss my triton, no. Did my triton do everything I needed, almost.

however on reading similar posts to yours and those with a 2000 triton saying no need for a table saw I researched the 2000 and can see the 2000 is far superior than my old Mk3, maybe I wouldn’t have the need for a table saw.

“buy what you can afford at the time” is never truer when it comes to cutting wood. Upgrading may happen regularly or may never happen at all, if I had followed my fathers journey an electric drill was the only lavish tool and hand drills were stacked on top of that:U

i still have the triton router table but seldom use it as I think I got a “Friday” build = not quite flat.

cheers

I bought a Triton Mk 3 and a Hitachi saw in 1983 and soon added a Makita router. Worked reasonably well and a great learning tool, but fiddly to adjust. Price was about 20% of cheapest saw bench then available.

Triton 2000 is a much better model, far easier to adjust and more accurate, but not comparable to a proper saw bench. Just too much flex.

I still have a Triton, but only use it for bush carpentry.

Would I now buy one? No, they are too damned expensive. Saw benches are now so much cheaper, so much easier to use and much more precise.

Recommendation to OP: Either:

• Buy an inexpensive second hand Triton 2000 in excellent condition as a "learning tool". There are heaps available. Or
• Buy a saw bench.