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4 Aug. 2006
re: Saw Trax
Having recently had the opportunity to evaluate a Saw Trax panel and saw table, I would like to offer the following observations of my evaluation.
I have been using saws my entire life, since my father owned seven lumberyards.
I am currently employed, by The Home Depot, in the lumber and building materials department. I have used numerous saws and made thousands of cuts.
The first saw evaluated was the full size model 64 panel saw equipped with a Porter Cable, 3hp, 15 amp, angle gear drive saw. This saw by far outperforms and exceeds my expectations over any other panel saw I have ever user. The rails and rollers have the smoothest gliding properties of any saw of this type. I was especially impressed with the larger diameter rails (1 ¾") used to manufacture this saw. I feel this makes the model 64 much sturdier and allows for the extra ease and increases the accuracy of the cuts. I enjoyed changing from vertical to horizontal cutting due to the detachable tool plate, which I favor over the spinning carriage insert. It was quick and very easy. Another feature I feel is a definite advantage and a must for panel saw operators is the mid fence, which allows working with smaller pieces of wood and doing so at waist height. Two other features, which make this an outstanding product, first is the ability for the vacuum to pick up sawdust at strategic locations on the frame, the other feature is the coiled power cord, which stayed out of my way while cutting. It also reduces the possibility of getting accidentally cut.
The other saw is the Dual Arm Table saw. This saw is an absolute workhorse. Equipped with the Makita 5402A beam saw, I could cut thru 6" ACQ treated timbers that I would normally have to cut with a chain saw. I was also able to make a single cut on a pre-manufactured, ready to install, counter top with ease and precision. This is due to the large table surface and deep-cut capability. It also has the ability to make cuts with either a typical (radial arm) pulling motion or being able to push the saw like a conventional circular saw. The 8 sealed roller bearings on the larger rail system make this the smoothest radial arm saw I have ever seen or used. Along with the Accu Square alignment system and the Dust Buster Fence system, this saw is the by far the most impressive saw "table" on the market. The only enhancement I would like would be a coil power cord in place of the regular straight cord.
Thank you for the opportunity to evaluate your saws first hand. I am impressed. Jay Smith
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