Cheapish (but good value) table saw for a friend

[Barlidge]

I think the Aldi one also has mitre gauge slots to both left and right of the blade?

 

[cumbriasteve]

I think the Aldi one also has mitre gauge slots to both left and right of the blade?

Yes true it does, done a few mitre cuts with mine and was surprised how accurate they were.

In fact just noticed the Aldi one also has the slot for the guide on the table extensions, does not look like the Ferm has.

 

[WorkshopChris]

I think the Aldi one also has mitre gauge slots to both left and right of the blade?

If it does that is a big bonus as you can make a table saw sled, good for accurate cross cuts.

 

[skotl]

I'm being swayed back toward the Aldi, then, in terms of value for money

Cheers guys

 

[ukracer]

I'm being swayed back toward the Aldi, then, in terms of value for money

Cheers guys

Always get decent reviews from those who get a hands on evaluation.

 

[Robotstar5]

Another vote for the Titan from Screwfix, I've got a few of their Titan branded tools with no complaints, although it only has a 2 year guarantee compared to the Aldi 3 years.

 

[brianblock]

Being a cabinet maker/ shop fitter by trade I would like to think I know the difference between a good table saw and a bad one, and none of these are what I would call pro quality (you need to spend more money I'm afraid)
But saying that if I had to pick one of the models linked to here for diy use I would plump for the ferm. The table looks like a nice aluminium extrusion where as the other 2 look like folded sheet, also it has a stand I don't believe the others do (edit. Ok the Aldi one does )

 

[brightspark]

the 99 quid ones are ok for site work but not a lot of use for small accurate work. I have one I got given brand new and going to make a new protractor for it and shim up the center plastic insert as its 15 thou low and make a better fence adjustor for it . then it will be somewhere near without spending at least 3 to 400 quid on one.

 

[cumbriasteve]

But saying that if I had to pick one of the models linked to here for diy use I would plump for the ferm. The table looks like a nice aluminium extrusion where as the other 2 look like folded sheet, also it has a stand I don't believe the others do (edit. Ok the Aldi one does )

I think this is one of those 'who likes what best' that won't really produce a winner.

The table on the Aldi one is extruded alloy, it's nice and sturdy and feels well made, not sure what you mean about a stand but it is on legs and again they feel fine to me.

I doubt anyone expected pro quality for around the £100 mark, I certainly didn't but was surprised at how good it was for £90 and free delivery, they are what they are and probably a bit better than you can expect for the low price.

I think an important point is the chap was apparently saving up for the Aldi one, he must therefore have decided it would do what he wanted within his budget.

I can't see anything the Ferm one offers differently or better except to take a few extra £££'s out of your pocket.

Just my view and it may be wrong so will leave it at that in case I influence the decision too much.

 

[brianblock]

Sorry boss
Forgot only staff members opinions count on here

 

[Cobbler]

Sorry boss
Forgot only staff members opinions count on here

I think that was unfair & out of order

 

[brightspark]

Sorry boss
Forgot only staff members opinions count on here

my opinion counts as I've got one and it needs improvement for small accurate work but a cant warrant spending well over 300 on a decent one for the amount I do so am re working it to a good standard cheap

 

[WorkshopChris]

my opinion counts as I've got one and it needs improvement for small accurate work but a cant warrant spending well over 300 on a decent one for the amount I do

I think that's the important bit to remember, in terms of features or quality the next bit of kit is a big step up price wise.

There isn't much on the market between the saws being discussed and something like http://www.axminster.co.uk/axminster-hobby-series-ts-200-2-table-saw-ax943886 at over £350.

They will all let him produce some good work with skill and care, but importantly let him earn, and build up his kit again.

 

[cumbriasteve]

Sorry boss
Forgot only staff members opinions count on here

My comment was relevant and because it did not agree with you there is no need for sarcasm.

 

[taxi ray]

I have the ferm saw. the legs are not very good, I just took them off and use the saw on a folding workbench. As others have said the fence is too flimsy, I just clamp a piece of wood onto the table and use that.

 

[brightspark]

I think that's the important bit to remember, in terms of features or quality the next bit of kit is a big step up price wise.

There isn't much on the market between the saws being discussed and something like http://www.axminster.co.uk/axminster-hobby-series-ts-200-2-table-saw-ax943886 at over £350.

They will all let him produce some good work with skill and care, but importantly let him earn, and build up his kit again.

that is a nice saw if I was 10 years younger I would have spent that sort of money as used to do a lot of woodwork its not feasible now though . if a winner came up cheap second hand I would buy it though

 

[skotl]

Having read through the thread again, I've gone ahead and ordered the Aldi one It seemed 50/50 compared to the Ferm, but still a decent bit cheaper.

The chap in question has used my B&Q saw that I bought for £70 around 15 years ago and keeps saying "I need to get something like this", and he was keen on the Aldi unit when I first mentioned it so I'm sure he'll like this.

Thanks for everyone's input

 

[bigegg]

A bit late now, but i'dlook for the one with the sturdiest trunnion + case and a belt-driven blade
Then i would replace the table top with a piece of worktop, add a "biesmeyer" style diy fence, a pair of mitre slots using axminster or rutlands t-track and a GOOD blade
I have a near cabinetmakers quality/accuracy saw for less than £200 outlay (starting with the remains of a 2nd hand saw - sans top)

 

[skotl]

Bought a pink bow at lunch time, slapped it on the saw's box, and took it round to my mate's house tonight.

He's delighted, so thanks very much for all the help and suggestions there was a fair amount of prosecco and campari (yes, really - I did say he's Sicilian, right?) consumed as a result

 

[daleyd]

Bought a pink bow at lunch time, slapped it on the saw's box, and took it round to my mate's house tonight.

He's delighted, so thanks very much for all the help and suggestions there was a fair amount of prosecco and campari (yes, really - I did say he's Sicilian, right?) consumed as a result

Better hope it works then, you may be waking up next to a horses head!!