Jet 708100 Workshop Table Saw vs. Ridgid ts3650

**Knottscott** · 06-22-2007, 10:47 AM

Different sets of features with each choice, and it seems you've outlined most of them pretty well. The fences are about a wash IMO....both are aluminum and neither is a Biese, but both are functional.

The 3650 has a wider rip capacity in it's stock form, and has cast iron wings. The Herc lift is pretty slick. The 3650 is well liked. The outboard motor and DC port are limitations from my perspective. HD isn't likely to be as helpful as a retailer as Woodcraft but each location varies.

The 708100 also has wheels, and it's hybrid configuration has several inherent advantages. It's also well liked and is gaining respect with time.

Both are from well respected companies and should make for a fine performer once tuned and equipped with a decent blade...not much chance of identifying difference in cut between them. The fences on both can be upgraded if that's a concern for you. The steel wings can be upgraded as well, or replaced with a laminated extension table. The motor location is there to stay...if space or DC are concerns, the hybrid is the future and is the way to go IMO.

Which one has the most appeal to YOU?

FWIW, I read recently that the GI 50-220 CM1 was on sale at Woodcraft for $699.... a substantial price increase, but a good value nonetheless and a heck of a nice saw. When viewed over the lifetime of the saw it doesn't seem nearly as steep. The TS is such an important tool in most shops, it's really nice to get most of what you want, but I do understand staying within budget.

**goslin23** · 06-22-2007, 12:09 PM

Well, I am the proud owner of a TS3650, but I did a ton of research before buying the saw a month ago. I was on the fence with the Rigid and a Zip code saw. In the end, price won out for me. I had a budget under $600 and I missed the sale for the 22114. Rather than waiting for it to go back on sale again (as it does frequently), I Dropped the $499 + Tax and grabbed the Rigid.

My reasoning behind the decision was this... if I'm going to put significant time in this hobby down the road, then I'll go ahead and get a uni or a PM66. Until then, If it's going to be a weekend time passer, then I have a great saw that will get the job done nicely.

Any route you go you'll have a nice saw. There's absolutely nothing wrong with either saw IMHO. Each has their strengths and weaknesses. For me it came down to what was the best bang for the buck that I could bring home in my Durango that day

**Ken Massingale** · 06-22-2007, 01:20 PM

I'm obviously a very happy 3650 owner, I've had mine going on 2 years. The only reason I can see for replacing it would be if Ridgid comes out with a model with a riving knife.
I have seen and touched the Jet at WC and no disrespect to Dustmight but IMO the fences aren't in the same ballpark. It's a personal thing, but I detest stamped steel wings.
There's around 80 lbs. of weight difference between the 2 saws, I doubt the wings are all of that.
Depending on planned use and personal preferences either saw will do what you want. The feel of quality, 36" rip, large table area in front of the blade and warranty were important to my needs.
Good luck with your saw, whichever you decide on.

**cgallery** · 06-22-2007, 01:53 PM

Having looked at both, I'd take the Jet for the internal motor. But, I'd upgrade it with a better fence and I'd look for a good deal on cast iron extension wings (I agree w/ Ken, stamped steel is for the birds).

Finally, I'd build a nice rolling cabinet to go underneath it (I can't stand splayed steel legs).

But it doesn't matter for me. Any saw that weighs 200lbs is off-limits for me because of my stupid back.

**ragswl4** · 06-22-2007, 04:21 PM

Saw this on the KC craigslist and remembered your post. Maybe could be had for $350 or less if not already sold.

http://kansascity.craigslist.org/tls/347886410.html

**Knottscott** · 06-22-2007, 05:13 PM

Originally posted by Ken Massingale

...I have seen and touched the Jet at WC and no disrespect to Dustmight but IMO the fences aren't in the same ballpark. It's a personal thing, but I detest stamped steel wings.

... large table area in front of the blade and warranty were important to my needs.

No disrespect taken in the least. I've always assumed that the distance in front of the blade was pretty standard between 27" deep saws. Does the 3650 have more than most 27" saws, or were just referencing smaller saws? How about a few of us measure approximately from the center of the arbor to the front edge of the cast iron table with the blade fully raised and see? (My 22124 is ~ 17-1/4")

I prefer cast iron wings but have had steel before and never considered them a hindrance. Cast iron wings weigh alot. Amazon shows the 708100 as 220#, Ridgid shows the 3650 as 287#. Figuring the Herc lift has some additional weight over just wheels, I'd imagine that much of that weight difference could indeed be from the wings. Both saws have a very similar one piece cast blade shroud and similar motors.

**ragswl4** · 06-22-2007, 05:41 PM

I don't have either saw but the TS3650 was one of my choices when I upgraded from the BT3100. I eventually purchased a Craftsmand 22114 when it went on sale for $529 and the TS3650 was $549. I have been happy with my choice but believe I would have been equally happy with the TS3650.

It has received great reviews for some time now so I don't think you could go wrong with that choice. The Jet also has two good reviews on Amazon.com. I would think either saw would be a good choice. The difference is the steel vs cast iron wings. If the Jet had cast iron wings I'm guessing the price would be around $150 more so the price comparison is more realistic with the TS3650 at $450 and the Jet at $600.

I am sure they are both good table saws, just wanted to point out a minor difference in the price point.

**drumpriest** · 06-22-2007, 11:35 PM

goslin23 - pm2000 baby, it's a new world. It took me 1 table saw and 4 years to decide that I like the hobby enough to buy a big saw. I'm very happy, though completely understand that it's a big price and not for everyone.

Standard setup, between those 2 saws, hard choice, but I'd go Ridgid. Basically I really don't like the Jet fence. If you can drop some $$$ on a better fence, that's different.

**goslin23** · 06-23-2007, 06:29 AM

Originally posted by drumpriest

goslin23 - pm2000 baby, it's a new world. It took me 1 table saw and 4 years to decide that I like the hobby enough to buy a big saw. I'm very happy, though completely understand that it's a big price and not for everyone.

Standard setup, between those 2 saws, hard choice, but I'd go Ridgid. Basically I really don't like the Jet fence. If you can drop some $$$ on a better fence, that's different.

Oh believe me, I drool over those saws at the stores when I see them (kinda bad for the cast iron though

). I'm moving to the new house today and can't wait to get my shop all set up. I have an 18'x22' garage that's all mine! No cars, just tools (and 2 bikes) and lot's of projects that I have planned to do after the move. I'll give the 3650 a good workout and decide if it's the one for me for the long haul.

-=gos=-

**messmaker** · 06-23-2007, 08:09 AM

Originally posted by ragswl4

Saw this on the KC craigslist and remembered your post. Maybe could be had for $350 or less if not already sold.

http://kansascity.craigslist.org/tls/347886410.html

It looks in very good shape. I think I might go $350 which is on the high side for most used contractor saws. I would make sure and point out that he has his has his facts wrong with the new purchase price.

Jet 708100 Workshop Table Saw vs. Ridgid ts3650

Jet 708100 Workshop Table Saw vs. Ridgid ts3650

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