You can adjust the guiding track (sold separately) to make bevel cuts. It is easy to see that the Festool track saw is lighter and thus more portable than the Mafell saw. Compare $ 64 00 (63) Model# CT9502. The stock blade is quite cheap and should be replaced immediately for more serious users. The Kreg ACS2000 kit comes with an included 62 guide track for an all-in-one package that has everything you need to get started using a track saw at home. Since these cordless saws will use batteries you already own the $150-200 savings there can override any overall tool performance. The Kreg ACS2000 also has standard safety features like kickback and binding protection. Learn what brands and mounts are best for your project. It is an efficient and heavy-duty tool that you would enjoy using for your project. With this being a Festool, this is a combination of all the best track saw features. Moreover, the track saw is equipped with a cordless technology, thanks to the powerful lithium-ion battery. The best drawer slides combine features like full extension and soft closing with durability for decades of use. In the fourth category of track saws youll find a few traditional track saws as well as combining a more traditional circular saw with a track: While expensive in comparison to their circular saw cousins, these saws are generally between $125-250 for a saw and track and a fraction of the heavier duty saws. And combining a dust hose, power cord and tracks makes for a tangle. Track Saw vs. Table Saw: Whats the Difference? The plunge release level is also in an easy-to-reach place for better operator comfort. Capable of cutting depths up to 2 , the DEWALT DWS520K track saw uses a low-profile blade guard so you can get right next to the action. The kit comes with the track saw, a 60V battery and charger, a tool box, blade, and the 59 track. And have no regrets after cutting up dozens of sheets of plywood, thick bench tops and trimming doors. Makita SP6000J. Best All-in-One Track Saw Kit: Kreg ACS3000 With Track and Table; 7. They can be used in combination with dust collectors or with vacuums to pull in the dust as the blade cuts through the material. Table saws are great for projects that you can do in a shop with lots of extra space for loading the material through the saw. If you need a lot of power, this model has overload protection against overheating. Keep an eye out for the features that matter most to you but remember that more features almost always mean a higher price tag as well. A table saw works best for cutting angles or repeatable cuts. So, even with the expense of picking up another battery line, I opted for the Makita as it is has all of the key features of the corded version. When youre not using the saw, put a blade guard over any exposed blades. Especially if youre on a schedule, table saws make several equal cuts quickly. Aluminum Guide Rail Joining Set for Makita or Festool Track Saws (2x55 in . Double-check everything before you turn the saw on, especially the current cutting path. While the Makita SP6000J1 isnt the cheapest track saw on our list, its not too far off the price of our budget pick. But how did we handpick these options? Woodworking tools have improved as more companies are competing for the hard-earned money of DIYers and professionals alike. With hours in the shop and critical analysis of each saw's features and performance we are providing readers with a comprehensive look at each saw's bright-spots and areas for . Aug 31, 2020 - Track Saws are all the rage, but when it comes to buying one what features should you look for? Goodell David, Founder of WoodWorking Clarity, says, If you do a lot of quick jobs or work mainly from your shop, you dont need a cord.However, you will have to change the batteries from time to time, which can be cumbersome, especially if the track saw dies down in between a cutting job. The best way to guarantee clean, even cuts is to line everything up just right before getting to work. The Kreg ACS3000 track saw is a solid machine that provides accurate and smooth cuts. Dust cleanup is easy too. Here are our top five picks for the best track saws available, including all your favorite brands, like Festool, Kreg, and Bosch. If you are also looking for the best track saw in 2023 for your woodworking or DIY projects, then we have the best options for you to choose from. Whether you need to make straight cuts or carve customized fancy shapes out, 2023 Woodsmith Cruz Bay Publishing, Inc. an Active Interest Media company, This is another major factor that comes into play when you are considering the best track saw. A plunge cut track saw can also make straight cuts fast and smoothly, despite not having as powerful a motor. The Festool TS 55 REQ saw kit comes with an impressive 55 track and includes the track guide for precise cuts. Many of the above brands, like Makita, Festool, and Bosch, create great plunge cuts. Best Budget Track Saw: Kreg ACS2000 Saw & Guide Track Kit; 5. Track Saws are all the rage, but when it comes to buying one what features should you look for? Kreg makes advanced cutting tools such as the Adaptive Cutting System. I'm Ray, a lifelong carpenter who's spent the better part of my life working on construction sites on the West Coast of the United States. For my Makita I opted for both a Makita brand track and a Powertec track. Most Powerful: Bosch GKT13-225L, 10. If you need to make longer cuts than what one guide rail allows, you can always connect more. But, when I bought them realized I should have had them all along. Wheels are off the ground when using. This may seem a bit strange and confusing at first, but the reality is that the track part of a track saw is really just a guide that keeps your saw running perfectly (when its working correctly) straight as you saw. Safety-wise, the Kreg model comes with a riving knife, among other anti-kickback tools. You just have to consider your projects and how often youll work with your saw. Most importantly, it also features one of my favorite features of a circular saw: a blade-left design that allows us right-handed users the ability to see the blade and action without leaning over sideways during the cut. If you want to learn why a track saw can be so beneficial, watch this video from WoodWorkers Guild Of America: And that is all we have for you regarding the best track saws of 2023. At roughly 18 lbs., this track saw is a bit of a honker and can be a pain to lug around. Model PTS01B (the bare tool) retails for $329 and includes the plunge saw, a 40 tool ultra-thin kerf blade, two 27.5-inch tracks, and a track clamp. This saw cuts well with accuracy but can also cause a fair bit of vibration during use. The Bosch GKT13-225L achieves its precise plunge cuts with an easy-to-use plunge mechanism. A track saw's point of collection is closer to the dust creation - and a bit more contained - than a table saw. Track Saw Rail. When you are looking for a powerful track saw, nothing even comes close to the DEWALT FLEXVOLT Cordless TrackSaw Kit, which has a premium build and a stellar set of useful features that take your woodworking and cutting experience to a whole new level. Adjusting it before each use ensures proper safety and quality work. Pinterest. A: You shouldn't use a track saw for small cuts, as it might be clumsy. Power tools can help make jobs go by faster, easier, and with much more precisionwhich is exactly what track saws are designed to accomplish. The low price is extremely tempting for novice users, but the lack of overall quality and performance is likely to be more difficult for new users to accommodate. The Makita XPS01PTJ offers variable speed control with automatic speed adjustment technology that optimizes its torque while you cut. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. The saw has a large cutting capacity with variable speeds ranging from 2000 to 5,200 RPM. They also make excellent plunge cuts, which you can make in the middle of the workpiece for electrical wires or sink fittings. If youre looking for a cheap track saw and you already own a circular saw, the handy Kreg KMA2685 might be a better option for you. While other tools can get the job done for less, the Festool 55 Req-F-Plus gets the job done reliably and to an exactness required by professional carpenters and woodworkers. Differences between Kreg ACS and Festool MFT The MFT works better with a dust vacuum, whereas the ACS has an effective dust collection system. The edge guide is reversible and allows for left- or right-handed use, making this an excellent and versatile option for circular saw owners that want to get more precise cuts up to 24 in length without breaking the bank for a new tool. How to Make a Solid Wood Top For Counters, Desks and More. 5 Best Track Saws of 2021: 1. The DEWALT DWS520K track saw is a solid performer that offers great cutting power and accuracy. Makita, like Festool and all the rest, has a reputation for creating one of the best track saws, and their SP6000J1 saw kit model is no exception. There is a fair amount of plastic used in the construction of the DEWALT DWS520K track saw, which is a bit of a drag considering the price they are asking; however, this saw does a great job nonetheless. The Grizzly saw freely accepts the standard Festool extractor hose. The Shop Fox W1835 track saw is definitely a budget offering compared to its competitors. Thus, you can move the material along the intended cutting track. And the Makita saw keeps up their quality reputation with a saw that is highly rated, has all of the top features in this category of tool, and is a tool most professionals would start with if Festool wasnt around. For jobs that require constant cutting for long periods of time, a corded track saw might be a better choice. The Best Track Saw For Any Budget! However, the blade cut so well (when new and sharp), we didn't need to do this, even with delicate veneers and melamine. Makita vs. Dewalt and Makita vs. Milwaukee is a pretty common brand comparison. Its use of batteries allows you to be more mobile and gives you the ability to perform cuts without having to drag out an extension cable or power source to the job site. Also, as usual, it can make a splinter-free cut in wood pieces up to 50 long, using a 000 rpm- 5 200 rpm 12-amp motor with an electronic brake. The Mafell track saw weighs 17 pounds while the Festool weighs a mere 4.5 pounds. The main drawback of Festool is the price of not just their tools but also the accessories. Bevel range of 0-48. 2. Check your blades for damage before use. The track saw is also great if youre working in tight spaces and need a more mobile power tool. Many track saws have handles to help you with this. Best Track for Circular Saws: Kreg KMA2685 Circular Saw Guide, great YouTube video from the WoodWorkers Guild of America, Everything You Need to Know About Repointing Brick, Radiant Floor Heating: The Pros and Cons of Warming Up From Below, How to Install a Light Fixture A Simple DIY Guide. The Bosch GKT13-225L track saw is on the more expensive side of the track saws on our list, especially considering it doesnt come with an included track like many of its competitors do. The most significant difference between a table saw and a circular saw is how you cut the material. A track saw is a powerful tool, and you need to hold it down to prevent injury and ensure proper and precise cuts. The track saw's plunging action and blade result in a cleaner cut than all but the finest, smallest-kerfed table saw blades. They are slightly easier to handle, making them somewhat more reliable for beginner woodworkers. For about 25% of the cost of other track saws WEN offers up an entry-level saw that is, for many, an alternative to a table saw and circular saw all in one. This website uses cookies to improve your experience and track site visits. While a track saw is one of the most versatile and portable saws, there are a few things to remember before using one, especially if youre new to woodworking. It performs excellently while its got the juice, but dont expect to get much more than an hour to two of cutting performance per charge. Which requires purchasing a saw with: Maybe youre thinking this saw is just a fancy circular saw that is pre-made to be paired with a track. You might want to check the recent post history, someone had tried something similar, beveling with the Festool track saw and the angles, while close still needed to be fine tuned by shooting. Being able to buy everything at once and knowing that its all designed to work together is really convenient. If youve gone through our list and still dont know if a Festool or Bosch saw will cut it, see if any of these comparisons can answer any questions. High Points. Best Track Saws. It offers fantastic accuracy and smooth cutting power that can slice through just about anything you put in front of it. On the other hand, when you have a cordless track saw, having a 20V battery provides you with sufficient power to operate the blade efficiently. This track saw is ideal for professionals and perfectionists that dont mind spending more money for higher quality. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Bora 36 NGX Clamp Edge Straight Cut Guide. Unlike table saws, track saws are portable and can be taken to the material instead of having to pull what you want to cut over to a table saw. A: If you are looking to make long and accurate cuts, track saws are worth it. Festool vs. Kreg Track Saw- Should You Own It ? Even if youre an expert saw user, you should still exercise safety precautions. The performance of the DEWALT DSC520ST1 track saw is solid, but its lack of features combined with its rather low battery runtime makes for a lower price to performance ratio. Its speed is fast, and its easy to set up. Doing so reduces tear-out and splintering in the material and increases operator safety. And, since Kreg is a #1 supplier of jigs for woodworkers, its not surprising this saw is both a great value and well priced. Which means this type of saw needs to be connected to at least one accessory. New to woodworking and not sure about Makita? Even at a lower price point, the Kreg has a number of the key features found in the Makita: When youre investing in tools you will use every day a few extra dollars upfront is almost always worth it. Goodell David, Founder of WoodWorking Clarity, says, , quick jobs or work mainly from your shop, you dont need a cord.. The diameter of the blade is 165 millimetres, and the arbour hole is 20 millimetres in diameter, both of which are standard blade sizes. But its also not quite good enough to warrant being placed as our top budget pick because it has some noticeable drawbacks that make it less than ideal for those who are newer to track saws. Evolution Multi-Material Circular Track Saw, Routers are great tools but they can be tricky to operate. A: If you're in the market to buy a track saw, you can expect to pay $400 to $600 to buy a high-quality track saw. It deliberately comes oversize so that you can cut it right to the edge of the saw blade. Chad Stanton explains what he likes and doesn't like in this . Miter cuts and angular cuts require careful precision, so a plunge cut track saw will help get the job done. The Pocket-Hole Jig 520 is the most versatile jig yet from Kreg with features that adapt and adjust to suit your project-building needs. For me it has made breaking down plywood much easier. However, where Festool has major distribution channels, and thus better parts availability, youll have to go to a few specialty dealers like Timberwolf Tools or other sources. They are still portable, though, since you dont always mount them to your worktable. This is an especially troublesome issue if you are working indoors as fine particles of sawdust floating through the air cause a huge mess and can get into your airways. While corded track saws provide you with more power, cordless track saws are more portable and easy to operate. Including me. Bosch GKT13-225L 6-1/2" Plunge Track Saw Kit, 4. One of the best aspects of track saws is their ability to repeat the same cut reliably and keep everything at just the right angle. A comfortable rubberized grip provides desirable ergonomic comforts to minimize hand fatigue for extended use. Which is were turning to one of the following saws is best: And with a range from $300-700 for a saw and track theres a quality saw for every budget. And, with Festool having a long history of being a top tool provider youll gain all the features noted below. Using a track saw to cut studs for walls or frame structures works wonders too. The Makita SP6000J1 has a large cutting capacity (2-3/16 at 90 degrees and 1-9/16 at 45 degrees) and a good bevel capacity (-1 to 48 degrees, with positive stops at 22 5 and 45 degrees). Track saws also offer more precision and cleaner cuts thanks to their guide tracks that keep them on the straight and narrow during operation. After using this saw for the first time any experienced woodworker will wonder why they didnt have one ten years ago. A table saw can cut longer material pieces, but youre going to need more workshop space for such projects. Track saws eliminate the need to clamp your material down since the saw stays in place. Buy at Home Depot Saws consist of different kinds of blades or chains that are sharp enough to cut through numerous materials, and the motor inside them allows for a much faster operation, as well as greater precision and less chance for error. - Editor. While other tools like the table saw and circular saw do a similar job, the benefit of a track saw is straight, repeatable cuts on the go. Ultimately, whether you want to buy a track saw, a table saw, a circular saw, or all three of them comes down to the specific needs you have for your tools. More Info Quickview. The Kreg Adaptive Cutting System is a track-guided circular saw you can use for cutting materials with accuracy and precision. Historically, the plunge-cut tool was first introduced by Festool in 1980. The Dewalt includes all the key features of a high quality track saw: While Kreg hasnt ventured into too many tools their plunge saw is worth a look. The most portable of all workshop saws, and among the most powerful, track saws work great for larger projects with larger material pieces. Make angles from 0-60 using the included Miter Guide, or cut perfect 45 miters easily using Versa-Stops and the precisely machined holes in the Project Table. M18 FUEL 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 31 in. The Kreg ACS3000 track saw kit includes a quality track saw capable of cutting to a maximum depth of 2 . If you know what youre doing and are willing to make some adjustments yourself, the Shop Fox W1835 track saw is a low-budget machine that performs solidly on easier to cut materials. The low cost of this unit is its main selling point and if you arent too worried about getting things perfect, the Shop Fox W1835 track saw may be right for you. Guiding the saw on a track allows for more accurate cuts, and you can pre-measure the cuts for better precision. Best for Occasional Use: DEWALT DWS520K, 8. And like most cordless saws the blade provide can be thinner kerf and reduce cut quality. And for professionals, who already know Festool is the pinnacle of tool quality, their models hit all the key features you need: Coming down a price tier, the Makita has all the features you need. There are plenty of excellent track saws from Kreg and Festool. However, the 3-year limited warranty may be the deciding factor for buyers that want to make sure their money is well spent. Now working from a home woodworking shop Eric is sharing his passion for woodworking, tool advice and how-to knowledge from his Minnesota-based woodshop. Equipped with Makita's 12 amp motor churning out 2,000 or 5,200 rpm via its variable speed control drive. As mentioned, Festool's track saws are generally for the high-income bracket. DEWALT offers a 3-year limited warranty that helps make the price easier to swallow. (4) As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases linked from this site. The swiveling hose port is particularly nice for allowing for easy dust management without letting the vacuum hose get in the way of operation. As youd expect in the professional category, Festool will give you all the features of the top DIY track saw and then some: The TS 75 is almost identical to the TS 55 with the exception of a larger blade (stepping up to a 8-1/4) and a 1600 watt motor to power deeper cuts. When it comes to corded track saws, you can find a track saw with a 10A to 20A output. Best Warranty: DEWALT DSC520ST1 Track Saw Kit; 6. The tracks themselves have a gripping material on the bottom to keep the track in place without needing to use any clamps (though clamps are an option if you want to be extra safe.). In this hands on guide learn how to build a top and follow along with our build of a 2-inch maple butcher block top. Any track with a blade measuring 8 " should cut the deepest. The optimal cutting depth is usually 1/8, but it should not go so deep that it threatens the saws function. If you need to make several rip cuts or lots of identical pieces, table saws work best. With an integrated spring-loaded riving knife to help prevent jamming and forceful ejections, the Festool 55 Req-F-Plus is relatively safe and easy to use. In that time I have literally seen it all within the building industry as a professional contractor. What projects do you want to tackle, and which tools do you need for them? The Kreg ACS2000 saw kit is one of the most adaptable track saws on this list, able to cut up to 2-1 8 deep at 90 degrees and 1 1 2 at 45 degrees. Track saws are one of the best options for cutting drywall, too, since the material produces a lot of dust. However, they have measurement and precision features to help achieve the perfect cut on all pieces, along with anti-kickback safety measures. Mafell is another German made saw, and is arguably better than the Festool based on reviews and user reports. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Subscribe for a FREE directory to 300+ hand-selected local and online hardwood retailers. Track saws can get closer to walls thanks to their flat blade guard design and they offer much better dust collection. Best Basic Track Saw: Shop Fox W1835, 9. Some quality control issues with the tracks are a deterrent, but the overall build quality of the Makita SP6000J1 is solid, allowing this machine to offer clean, straight cuts. The main difference between the two saws is their cutting capacity and precision. Speed: 5,500 rpm. I didn't know Kreg was getting into the game I'm a bit surprised they did the whole deal with plunge saw and all. Those who own one are very happy with the purchase. Compared to its competition, what's immediately compelling is the sub-$250 pricing. Not only does it have a powerful motor, a sharp blade, and a cordless feature, but it also provides the best value for money. Moreover, it can even be used to cut through wood with nails, all thanks to its large and sharp 7 blade, with 40 teeth and an ability to cut 2 deep into the workpiece with precision. In addition to that, the design of the blade guard on circular saws prevents you from being able to control dust very well as you operate. Battery Powered Plunge Cut Saws With almost all tools now offering a cordless option, track saws are no exception. Check out this great YouTube video from the WoodWorkers Guild of America for more information on the various benefits provided by track saws. Makita SP6000J1 6-1/2 Plunge Track Saw Kit. While this saw is not as well built as a Makita or Festool overall reports on the saw are good. At first I couldn't quite get the hang of this interlock switch, but after a few minutes of getting acquainted with the tool, I had no trouble. I have the Kreg version. A track saw is precisely what it sounds like: a saw with a guide rail track that allows you to make better cuts in wood. More Info Quickview. However, if you are debating a corded vs. cordless saw at this price point youre very close to the base Festool price. At $350-400 at most retailers for just the tool and around $500 MSRP with two batteries its impossible to find a better rated and reviewed cordless track saw. The saw is embedded with electronic speed control and a current limiter that will maintain how fast it goes under any load and prevent the motor from burning out. With these saws its best to consider them in two categories to help split budget vs. features and capability. Some materials are thicker than others, so you need to place your blade to cut through them. While Kreg may not be a giant brand name yet, they are certainly making strides in the track saw world with their durable and reliable tools and accessories. Any experiences and opinions from people that own or have used either or both would be much appreciated or are there any other makes worth a look? (2) CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. Combined with their 62 inch guide track, you can plunge-cut plywood, solid wood and other materias with it with great accuracy. Bet it's finicky to use. Well, they are one of the top 3 brands that youll find on big box and specialty tool supplier shelves. Circular saws are useful for intentional rough cuts or rip wounds. Guide rails clamp to your work, so having to hold the saw down is not as necessary. The Kreg ACS2000 is an excellent track saw and guide kit combo that is offered at an unbeatable low price compared to other similar tools. The Kreg Saw has a splinter guard, a riving knife, and a dust bag. By pairing table-saw accuracy with portability and plunge action this saw allows for maximum portability and safety. If you just want to scan over each review, we have a brief pros and cons list at the end of each one that recaps the key aspects of that product. I recently picked up the Kreg ACS track saw and after using it for about a week I feel like it's just okay. And it also has the tracks, brand reputation and performance that make it a solid pick for both professionals and serious hobbyists. However, you do not have as much control over the speed as you do with other models. Track saws, for one, are great at making cuts in longer pieces. Equipped with the proper tools, you can tackle any job thats set in front of you. Unnecessary objects might damage the saw if you do not clear the blade path. The blade is only as good as the speed with which it is rotated. For shorter workpieces the 24" Kreg Rip-Cut Circular Saw Guide is a great option. Some of the reviews are less than stellar I know. The Tool Scout is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Surprisingly, the Powertec track was an EXACT replica of the Makita. Model# 48-08-0570. However, it may require a fair bit of fiddling around with to get it to perform at the level you need. Compare $ 149 00 (32) Model# 71387. Corded track saws offer more power but require that you pay close attention to the cord and keep it out of the way at all times. In general, track saws tend to be a fair bit more expensive than circular saws despite looking and functioning similarly. For people who work with wood regularly, it might be a good choice. The Festool track guide keeps the saw itself firmly in place for accurate straight cuts. Last but not least, we bring you the WEN CT1065 Plunge Cut Sidewinder Circular Track Saw, which is one of the best options when you have affordability and value in mind. A track saw can help you measure one piece of stock and then make exact duplicates. "I got my Festool track saw about 15 years ago. And track saws let you setup that foam-topped bench and quickly make large sheet cuts or trim live edge slabs. The large cutting capacity of 2 3/16 inches at 90 degrees and 1 9/16 inches at 45 degrees is perfect for almost any job. It also tends to throw out a lot more dust compared to other track saws, even when attached to a vacuum. The power rating is another important aspect that you need to consider. They also arent designed to cut into the middle of materials like track saws areallowing for more flexibility with a track saw in that regard. ACS Project Table Festool uses a fast fix design on this product. Their hard-working motor works better for cutting thick pieces of heavy hardwoods and can go long periods without tiring out or getting overheated. Circular saws can be used in conjunction with guide tracks like this one, but they still wont offer as precise or clean of a cut and theyll create a lot more dust compared to quality track saws. Lets look at the main differences between these tools to help you decide if track saws are the right tool for your needs. I'm only half-joking, really. You need little to no measurement and guesswork for a perfect cut. Tracks can also be connected together using track connectors to allow you to increase the length of your track and cut any length of material with the guide track helping you through the entire job. We think the Kreg Adaptive Cutting System 2000 is the perfect track saw setup for hobbyists and DIYers that are looking to expand their collection of tools without breaking their bank. As you may have noticed while browsing our list, not all of the track saws come with included tracks. Web/Phone: www.grizzly.com / 800-523-4777. We cover 5 of the best saws on the market, analyzing three key determining factors based on build quality, performance, and price.