What's next after the BT3100??

[b75025]

I've had several BT3000/3100's over the past 7-8 years, and have just sold my last one. Trouble is, I can't seem to find anything even remotely the same quality/usefulness for under $500! Is there something I should be looking at, or should I look for another BT3xxx??

[Carlos]

Under $500, I don't think there's anything better. Just over $500...used Unisaw? But then you'll have a great saw that does nothing, and will need jigs and such for some things the BT does.

[jking]

I've had several BT3000/3100's over the past 7-8 years, and have just sold my last one. Trouble is, I can't seem to find anything even remotely the same quality/usefulness for under $500! Is there something I should be looking at, or should I look for another BT3xxx??

Then why did you sell yours? Also, wondering why you've gone through several? Have you had problems you couldn't resolve? Many here have had the same saw for quite a while.

[LarryG]

Sears has the Craftsman 21829, essentially a mildly-updated BT3100 on a folding stand. As with all things Craftsman, it frequently goes on sale.

If the $500 figure you mention is one you consider within reach, you might consider stretching that to $550 and get a Ridgid TS3650. Lots of happy owners of those; a lot of folks consider it as big a bargain in that price range as they did the BT at the $300 level.

[mrmoray]

Jet 708100?

I don't know anything about the saw, but I noticed Woodcraft has it for $499.99

[footprintsinconc]

Then why did you sell yours? Also, wondering why you've gone through several? ....... Many here have had the same saw for quite a while.

my question exactly?

[Knottscott]

I don't know anything about the saw, but I noticed Woodcraft has it for $499.99

The 708100 is from Jet's "Workshop" line. It has replaced their former 708300 basic contractor saw. It's a step below their "Proshop" line that has similar guts but a different enclosure and fence, along with a few more upscale items. Jet has labeled 708100 as a "Contractor" saw, but by common definition, it's a hybrid because it houses a belt drive induction motor inside the enclose as opposed to hanging off the back....good space savings along with a host of other pluses. It also uses a one-piece cast blade shroud as an arbor carriage. It was on sale some months back for $400. It appears to be a direct contender with the Hitachi C10FL with more traditional controls, and possibly a better fence and stronger legs. Comments from owners have been positive.

[dkerfoot]

Sears has the Craftsman 21829, essentially a mildly-updated BT3100 on a folding stand. As with all things Craftsman, it frequently goes on sale.

"Mildly" is of course a subjective word.

The folding stand is simply amazing - easily worth $150 alone.
The rails are several inches longer.
The SMT has both the standard BT3 position for the fence but also a 2nd deeper position as well. A modification many BT3ers made themselves.
The router kit is included.
A couple other minor differences that I can't remember right now.