Delta Quality

[lkazista]

[QUOTE=Dustmight]I think it's an oversight to blindly disregard all products of a specific brand name because some of the lineup isn't up to a particular standard. Every machine is different and has it's own merits relative to a price point and the competition, so I think it's wise to evaluate each tool on it's own merit when it's time to shop and compare. Most brands have duds, darkhorses, and stars. [QUOTE]

I think the point is that Delta, for a good long time, required no investigating. If you needed a tool, and you could afford the Delta, you would buy it, and know that you have one of the finest tools around. Imagine if BMW (who builds the Cooper mini) started to put the coopers engine in all BMW's except for the 7 series, but still sold everything at 'their' standard MSRP. How long do you think BMW would be considered a maker of fine cars? The mini cooper is a fine car, but not when compared to a BMW. Much like most of the Delta line up is made up of fine product, but not when compared to itself 5 years ago.

Lee
Pot Stirrer

[bmyers]

Much like most of the Delta line up is made up of fine product, but not when compared to itself 5 years ago.

Agreed. I have a 1960's Delta scroll saw that is built like a tank, could prolly cut a tank with it... They don't make 'em like that anymore..

The choice of name brand loyalty are are best kept to things like motor oil, underwear, and BBQ sauce (not all 3 together of course) but you know what I mean.

Forking out major clams on name brand alone is never wise. BMW even made a "hey look ma, I have a BMW too!" also showed model, the 32X series. To go with your BMW example.

Credit the global economy and market consolidation with blurring the lines between who makes what and the quality of it. Each tool purchase should be considered without manufacturers name as a metric in the matrix..

Good luck in your search!

Bill

[Knottscott]

[QUOTE=lkazista][QUOTE=Dustmight]I think it's an oversight to blindly disregard all products of a specific brand name because some of the lineup isn't up to a particular standard. Every machine is different and has it's own merits relative to a price point and the competition, so I think it's wise to evaluate each tool on it's own merit when it's time to shop and compare. Most brands have duds, darkhorses, and stars.

... Much like most of the Delta line up is made up of fine product, but not when compared to itself 5 years ago.

Lee
Pot Stirrer

I could immediately think of a specific item that costs roughly the same now as 5 years ago and offers at least comparable quality (I'm sure there are others), so I can't agree totally with that statement, though I understand your point. Ie: 5 years ago the Delta 36-650 contractor saw sold for around $650 at most woodworking retailers. It was a good saw capable of most tasks and lasting a lifetime with minimal maintenance...it never was a BMW caliber tool IMO. It was made in Taiwan, had steel wings, a mediocre but functional aluminum fence, and a 1.5hp induction motor. That same $650 will now buy you a new 36-977 made in China with steel wings, a quality steel T2 fence, a 1.5hp induction motor, plus a built in mobile base...it's left tilt too. The 36-977 is also a good saw capable of most tasks and should last a lifetime with minimal maintenance. The upgraded fence, inclusion of a base, and left tilt feature are improvements IMHO.

I do agree that a marquis tool like the Unisaw isn't as overbuilt to the rugged standards they were in the 40's, but few things are. A new Uni, however, offers more features and options than ever before, should still last for generations, plus the stock Biesemeyer or Unfence are far superior to what was offered back then. I'd prefer everything was still built to high standards in the states, but that's a different discussion. My point is that Delta still has many competitive tools left relative to their competitors....maybe our perception of Delta 5 years ago was undeservingly shrouded in mystique...as is the case with many marquis brand names - Bose, Budweiser, Bayliner....for some reason we tend to find comfort in holding brand names in high esteem whether or not they deserve it.