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+-- Thread: Downsizing table saw (/showthread.php?tid=7365984)
Downsizing table saw - Foss - 11-12-2021
Hi all,
I'm a senior woodworker looking to downsize my table saw. I currently have a Unisaw which I have had for many years and will be giving to my son. I work out of my garage and need something a bit smaller and easier to move around. I would like something a bit better than the jobsite saws but don't want to spend over @ $700.
I have been looking at the Rigid R4520 and TS3650 which I have seen used and almost new for between $350 and $600.
The Grizzley Go771Z might be a little heavy for me and over budget.
Anyone have experience with the Rigid saws or other suggestions would be appreciated?
Tom
RE: Downsizing table saw - Splinter Puller - 11-12-2021
Unisaws without the large tables are very compact. Smaller than a contractor saw. Jobsite saws have universal motor so you will have to learn to love the scream.
RE: Downsizing table saw - sweensdv2 - 11-12-2021
Between the two Ridgid saws the TS3650 would be an easy choice if it were me. If it's in good shape, a close inspection between the two, will easily show you that it's a much higher quality saw then the R4520. If the stock herc-u-lift mobile base on the TS3650 is in good working order you could easily move that saw around with one hand.
RE: Downsizing table saw - lincmercguy - 11-13-2021
I ran a 3650 for quite a while. It was a used one that was an upgrade from my cheapo Craftsman. I actually had it in my basement shop at the old house. Getting it down there took a bit of disassembly.
Since it's a thin-kerf saw, the lower power still cuts quite well. It seemed to do just fine with a combo blade for everything. Looking back, I probably should have had a ripping blade as well.
It had a nice capacity for the size. I did rig the dust collection to collect from the whole "cabinet" area instead of just the blade area. I also built a short outfeed table for it that was attached to the saw. It made a big difference.
The only downside was no riving knife. If you use the factory guard/splitter, it fills the need.
I did have to replace the motor start cap at one point. It kept tripping the breaker at startup. Not a big deal.
I sold it for about what I had in it. I would not hesitate to get that one if it fulfills the size you need and it's in good shape for the price. I got mine cheap because it had some soda can rings on the table. I was able to get it all smooth, it just wasn't pretty.
RE: Downsizing table saw - stav - 11-13-2021
I actually upgraded to a Unisaw because it took less space than a contractor saw. I could pass it through a 36" door where you could not do that with a contractor saw due to the motor hanging off the back. The important part is to have a mobile base that is easy to use. Hard large wheels make for easier moving.
RE: Downsizing table saw - Gary G™ - 11-13-2021
Lots of good used saws usually on Craigslist
RE: Downsizing table saw - Foss - 11-13-2021
(11-13-2021, 12:21 AM)lincmercguy Wrote: I ran a 3650 for quite a while. It was a used one that was an upgrade from my cheapo Craftsman. I actually had it in my basement shop at the old house. Getting it down there took a bit of disassembly.
Since it's a thin-kerf saw, the lower power still cuts quite well. It seemed to do just fine with a combo blade for everything. Looking back, I probably should have had a ripping blade as well.
It had a nice capacity for the size. I did rig the dust collection to collect from the whole "cabinet" area instead of just the blade area. I also built a short outfeed table for it that was attached to the saw. It made a big difference.
The only downside was no riving knife. If you use the factory guard/splitter, it fills the need.
I did have to replace the motor start cap at one point. It kept tripping the breaker at startup. Not a big deal.
I sold it for about what I had in it. I would not hesitate to get that one if it fulfills the size you need and it's in good shape for the price. I got mine cheap because it had some soda can rings on the table. I was able to get it all smooth, it just wasn't pretty.
RE: Downsizing table saw - Foss - 11-13-2021
I found a slightly used TS 3650 (about a year old) on CL for $450 and I'm leaning in that direction. I'm 72 years old and even though the footprint of the 3650 is larger than a unisaw,
the weight of the unisaw is considerably more and I wont be going through any doors. The weight would definitely be a factor when I have to transport it to my garage. Also, the used prices around here are just too high for a Unisaw. I'd like to stay around $500.
I do have a concern that since the Rigid is a discontinued model, it may be difficult to get parts. Anyone had an issue with getting parts?
RE: Downsizing table saw - Foss - 11-13-2021
I also just saw a CL posting for a Delta 36-725 for $450. Delta 36-725 vs Rigid TS 3650?
RE: Downsizing table saw - lincmercguy - 11-14-2021
"I do have a concern that since the Rigid is a discontinued model, it may be difficult to get parts. Anyone had an issue with getting parts?"
You can look at ereplacementparts to see what's still available. When my capacitor died, I found a generic one with the same specs. The switch is the same as a lot of other Ridgid tools.