Who is still using thier BT3 ?????

[farkel]

Still Using Mine

I only build furniture, and in the course of most projects, there comes at least one moment when I think that for the next series of cuts, it would be nice if I had a different saw. But, I have a small shop, so until I can colonize more space in the basement, or until someone mentions a better small saw, I won't be defecting.

[lrogers]

I'll be using mine until it blows up! Been to hot to do much in the shop lately, but it's still purring like a happy kitten.

[axa]

Still looking for an excuse to upgrade an iron table contractor saw.
But the Bt3 wont give it to me.

This TS was my first tool purchase, didnt consider anything but costs... I got the 3100 on clearance 2 years ago, with Rebate from HD totaling $90. The TS i consider so central, so i wonder what i would have decided if it were today.

That said I went to visit AAJIII's shop this weekend, at his full time professional wood working shop, and there were 2 BT3 mounted he was doing all his work on. one for rips and one for crosses.
I figure if it good for a real pro, i sure can until mine blows.
Problem is i use it so rare and lightly, I may be blessed/cursed with this saw forever.

I think some of the reason we like this saw is due to this group, all the buzz and the make the jig yourself attitude it has.

[bearwood]

still using mine . BT3000..changed the belts once, otherwise..its as good as new.

[footprintsinconc]

amazing that this thread got such a great response!

i am amoung those that is still using the bt3100. i only have one complete project and am 1/2 way thru the 2nd. i still need to play with the alignment a bit. i like the saw, but i have to admit that i have thought of other saws (i am ashamed ) but cant justify it. maybe once i get the alignment thing squared away, maybe then i wont have those DARK thoughts!

[aluminumfury]

amazing that this thread got such a great response!

i am amoung those that is still using the bt3100. i only have one complete project and am 1/2 way thru the 2nd. i still need to play with the alignment a bit. i like the saw, but i have to admit that i have thought of other saws (i am ashamed ) but cant justify it. maybe once i get the alignment thing squared away, maybe then i wont have those DARK thoughts!

I made one of the jigs in this link

http://www.cgallery.com/jpthien/3k.htm

and it has allowed me to keep my saw in perfect alignment.
I highly recommend it and want to publicly say thanks to the guy who wrote it up.

[gettools]

Wow I never dreamed when I asked who was still using thier bt3 that I would get this kind of response. I asked because I had just purchased a recon bt3100 & I had a vintage rockwell/delta contractors saw that needed some work. I didnt know which one to keep or focus my attentions to, now with out a doubt I am going with the bt3. Thanks for all the feedback. THis has got to be the best sight going & yall are the best folks around.
When I first found this websight I had gotten the impression that most folks or at least the ones who were doing the most posting were using a differant saw, now I know better & I am proud of "my little saw that could" & does ( as quoted by someone here ) THANKS

[scorrpio]

Mine is getting used a lot.

[Knottscott]

I only build furniture, and in the course of most projects, there comes at least one moment when I think that for the next series of cuts, it would be nice if I had a different saw. But, I have a small shop, so until I can colonize more space in the basement, or until someone mentions a better small saw, I won't be defecting.

For those who are shy on space and wishing to upgrade or needing a new saw, General International has an interesting new saw that seems to be in a class by itself. The 50-090K. GI classifies it as a jobsite saw, but it looks more like a full size cast iron hybrid on a roll away stand...it looks very much like the Jet 708100 hybrid that has gotten positive reports. It's got the cast blade shroud as part of the trunnion system, which gives good support and good DC.

[Black wallnut]

I'm still using mine and have no intentions of changing anytime soon. First I can not justify the expense. Second my BT3K has done everything I've ever tried. Thirdly when properly aligned my SMT works every time. I could keep the list going but will stop here with the simple addition that I have built, still working on finishing my saw cart that also holds my router station. My saw is more capable than my Dad's 9" Craftsman that he purchased back in the 70's and he is still using his little saw.

[footprintsinconc]

thanks aluminumfury! that is an amazing resource. its really simple and makes sence. good one!

[dpaton]

My 8 year old Craftsman labelled BT3000 is still going strong. I've found it's limits a few times, but it keps coming back for more. Someday I'll end up with a bigger/better/more powerful saw,but for now, it's still enough for me.

[cgallery]

...Someday I'll end up with a bigger/better/more powerful saw...

Every time I think I need a more powerful saw I discover I need to sharpen my blade. It never fails.

[jking]

I bought my BT3100 3 years ago (or so). I've since picked up an extra SMT & an extra set of rails. I plan to build a mobile base so I can have saw on one end & router table on the other. I've ripped 3 1/2" material (pine) and some 3" oak. The only times I've been starved for power was because I can only run it on a shared 15 amp circuit & several other things were on at the same time. I even made cove molding for a bookcase once.

[JimD]

Count me in the "still happily using" camp. I made a complete bedroom set for my wife and I and another one for my daughter plus cabinets for the house, sofa, coffee and end tables, chairs, etc.. For our bedroom set I ripped 3 1/2 inch thick oak. Try that on your cast iron saws. The motor is a little small but is about as big as you can run on a 120V circuit. With a sharp and appropriate blade it will get the job done.

I have my BT3100 on a mobile base with 6 drawers plus a couple other compartments with doors on them. I would really miss the organized storage if the BT3100 dies and I have to switch. I would also miss the ability to do a 5 foot rip. I think people "upgrade" due either to being bored or not learning to adjust the BT or because their saw dies. I reject the theory that the new saw does something the BT does not. It's accurate and capable.

Jim