Tablesaws around $300

[ofna89]

Im new to ww and looking for a ts around $300. Have been looking for the BT3100 but there isnt anything in my area. WW is just a winter hobby for me. I have a small shop 9'x16' so space is key. Could anyone give me an idea as to whats in this price range?

[Hoover]

The answer is search for a used table saw.
If not, you need to up the ante. Buying cheap is not buying good. A decent table saw can be found, but you need to raise your price point.

[ofna89]

I thought people around here were nice, my mistake. As far as post go Hoover computer kept freezing when I would try to post so I clicked button two or three times and this is what happened. Sorry it ruined your day and you probably didnt get much rest last night.

[jAngiel]

I thought people around here were nice, my mistake. As far as post go Hoover computer kept freezing when I would try to post so I clicked button two or three times and this is what happened. Sorry it ruined your day and you probably didnt get much rest last night.

Most everyone here is nice. Don't let one rude person scare you away.

If you are unable to find a new BT hidden in a HD somewhere then you may be able to find a used BT or Craftsman clone either in the classifieds or via craigslist. You may be able to come across a saw way better than the BT that way too, you never know when somebody just really wants to get rid of a unisaw or something (not that it would fit in your space).

Just avoid the temptation to purchase a cheesy little benchtop type table saw, you will regret wasting your money.

If nothing else hold off and try to scrounge up some more money to get a Jet, Delta or Ridgid or maybe even a Hitachi.

[ofna89]

You are right about benchtop, I purchased a Jet last thursday(708315btc) and returned it today(tuesday). The Jets fence was off as was the miter. This will be my first ts so any help would be great in making a decision. Thanks

[ofna89]

Wheww good thing this only posted once.

[Knottscott]

If you start scouring the Craigslist, Ebay, wwing classifieds, and your local classifieds, I don't think you can do better than a decent used saw in your price range. You're likely to uncover a nice full size Delta, Ridgid, Jet, Grizzly, GI, PM, or Craftsman with some nice goodies for $300.

[ofna89]

I have found a full size used Craftsman one town over for $115. In the pic it looks fairly new,when I mailed the seller, he said it was 20 years old. Too old you think or a good price. Again I only need one for hobby use. There is a guy on here from Boston area who would meet half way with a used BT3100. No price yet. Waiting to hear back. Should I wait or go look at the Craftsman?

[eddy merckx]

I'd hold out for the BT3. That old Craftsman would be fine but won't have anywhere near the features of the BT3 series--good dust collection, riving knife, sliding miter table, solid rip fence,etc. The price shouldn't be that much different either. The BT3 saws are/were an amazing saw for the money. That's what the fuss here is all about.

[sacherjj]

If you can get the Sears model number we may be able to find out more for you.

[ofna89]

Yes I think my best bet is to wait also. Do you think maybe a local HD might have one in a corner somewhere, should I give this a try?

[ofna89]

The model # for the Craftsman TS is 113.298051. If you want to see a pic of the actual saw goto craigslist for Maine tools then look for Sunday December 17 and its the only Craftsman TS listed. Take a look and tell me what you think.

[Knottscott]

I have found a full size used Craftsman one town over for $115. In the pic it looks fairly new,when I mailed the seller, he said it was 20 years old. Too old you think or a good price. Again I only need one for hobby use. There is a guy on here from Boston area who would meet half way with a used BT3100. No price yet. Waiting to hear back. Should I wait or go look at the Craftsman?

Just got a better look at it....it appears to be direct drive universal motor with an aluminum top (note the striped top and the switch location) ....if so, I'd definitely pass. If it's got an outboard belt drive induction motor and cast iron top, the parts alone are worth more than $115.

If it's the latter, it was made in the USA by Emerson, and the guts of it are essentially the same as the Ridgid 3650. At $115 (he might even settle for less), you can add a Delta T2 fence from Lowes for $150 and possibly have yourself something with potential to be similar to a decent $550 saw. The stock fence should fetch $40-$50 on Ebay....blade money! You'll be able to swap wings, motors, miter gauges, and other accessories for just about any standard full size cast iron saw, so it'll be able to grow with you and should maintain value well.

[ofna89]

My question is should I wait to hear from the guy from Mass and drive about an hour for the BT or take a look at the Craftsman which is about ten minutes from me? Again this will be my first ts so any input would be great. Thanks

[Knottscott]

Won't hurt just to "look" at it...see my edited details above.