Keep current table saw or use an older one

[Doug Nale]

I'm in a dilemma myself.  Probably 5-7 years ago my wife bought me a craftsman mobile 10" table saw.  It's fairly similar to the one they have now for around $300 but it doesn't have the laser.  It's a plastic saw base mounted to a fairly light gauge stand with some cheap casters.  The deck is aluminum and the extensions have some flex to them.   It does a so-so job of cutting but it definitely isn't a precision machine.

My grandfather-in-law has an older  craftsman table saw.  Exact age I don't know but it's probably from the late 70's or 80's.  It's in great shape, nice heavy deck, real metal construction.  It is belt driven.  Guides and fences are all in great shape, and feel very sturdy.

Both saws are 3 hp and 10" and probably more than capable of what I need them for.  I would have to put a mobile base on the in-law saw.

Guess I'm looking for some thoughts on which is a better saw.  I've had issues with the "new" saw with it's lack of a substantial base when trying to rip plywood by myself as the saw and base are very light.  In my mind the in-law saw would solve that problem.

Thanks everyone!

[Hugh Clare]

I personally think it's a no-brainer. Go with the older saw. :)

[Doug Nale]

Thanks.  That's certainly the direction I'm leaning towards.  Now to offload the other saw so I can regain my garage for my car.

[michael evans]

Go with the older saw will be more stable and comfortable to use,if were not comfortable with a tool were not going to use it.

[louis e scott]

i agree with those other guys the older saw is a lot better saw i had one similar but upgraded to a ridgedfrom home depot few years ago the old craftsman was good but i don`t care for their newer tools as for the ridged i really like itit`s done a great job for me

[Doug Nale]

Guess it's time to look for a mobile base for the old saw.

[Ken Darga]

My choice is to go with the older craftsman.  

And make or buy a mobile base/stand for it.

If desired, a folding mobile stand can be obtained and the saw securely affixed to the stand.

[ray vile]

I agree with everybody else, i would go with the older saw and buy a mobile base from rockler. I'm not sure wich model craftsman saw you have now but I do know that the newer less exspensive saws that craftsman sells don't have a 3/8'' x 3/4'' slot for the miter gauge limiting your chances to buy aftermarket products for it. I also agree with Louis I love my Ridgid table saw.

[Doug Nale]

Well I picked up a "build your own" base kit from Harbor Freight.  Minus a few missing bolts I think it will work fine when using steel tubing instead of hardwood stiles on it.  Another hour tonight and the saw should be mounted and mobile.  Then on to selling the other one.

 

[michael evans]

Post a pic doug when done.

Doug Nale said:

Well I picked up a "build your own" base kit from Harbor Freight.  Minus a few missing bolts I think it will work fine when using steel tubing instead of hardwood stiles on it.  Another hour tonight and the saw should be mounted and mobile.  Then on to selling the other one.

 

[Doug Nale]

Well it is complete! Much much sturdier than my other one. If I can figure out how to post pics I will.

[Doug Nale]

Think I have it.

[Doug Nale]

Now does anyone know what bolt should be where the motor pivots in a guide? I put a bolt in there to keep the motor from going side to side.

Another question... I inherited several craftsman kromacote blades that are hollow ground. They aren't carbide tipped. One has been sharpened but the others haven't. should I use these or just buy new blades?