Track Saws are all the rage, but when it comes to buying one what features should you look for? Check out this great YouTube video from the WoodWorkers Guild of America for more information on the various benefits provided by track saws. Track saws are incredibly versatile and powerful tools that can help ease the burden of work for DIYers and professional woodworkers alike. Track saws have quickly become a staple in most woodworking shops. If you need a lot of power, this model has overload protection against overheating. It offers fantastic accuracy and smooth cutting power that can slice through just about anything you put in front of it. It also doesnt take up a lot of space, even with a guide rail, so its great for those with limited space. Any track with a blade measuring 8 " should cut the deepest. Track saws are hard to carry around since you have both the saw and its accompanying guide rail. Expect to pay between $700-900 for a fully equipped track saw and track. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Equipped with the proper tools, you can tackle any job thats set in front of you. Its 6-1/2 inch blade can cut through many kinds of wood, including plywood, hardwoods, and solid boards. Also available frominternationaltool.com. 1) Mafell Track Saw Why Use the Mafell Track Saw and Who Is It For? Goodell David, Founder of WoodWorking Clarity, says, , quick jobs or work mainly from your shop, you dont need a cord.. The Makita SP6000J1 has a large cutting capacity (2-3/16 at 90 degrees and 1-9/16 at 45 degrees) and a good bevel capacity (-1 to 48 degrees, with positive stops at 22 5 and 45 degrees). Their hard-working motor works better for cutting thick pieces of heavy hardwoods and can go long periods without tiring out or getting overheated. Its electronic speed control helps to maintain a constant speed for more finished, tear-free results. Plus, if you have any other options insight, you can make use of our buying guide to make the right decision. Home Tools Power Tools Saws Track Saw Guide: Choosing The Right Cordless Or Corded Model, Track Saw Guide: Choosing The Right Cordless Or Corded Model. Copyright (c) 2023 LEAN Woodworking LLC. The DEWALT DSC520ST1 track saw kit comes with an included 59 guide track so you can get started right out of the box. There is some plastic used throughout to keep the price down, but the overall build quality is pretty great. The DEWALT DWS520K track saw comes with a 3-year limited warranty and a 90-day money-back guarantee for a worry-free purchase. The Bosch GKT13-225L saw kit, comparable to a Festool, combines the best plunge action track saw features. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Bora 36 NGX Clamp Edge Straight Cut Guide. Plus, the plunge cut design and riving knife automatically retract the blade into a full-cover blade guard when not in use. This kit comes with 48 inches of track in two sections, which means you can use the shorter length for smaller projects or connect the two halves for four feet of accurate cutting. It features variable speeds from 1,350 to 3,550 RPM, and it can handle materials that are up to 2-3/4 inches thick. Best Cordless Track Saw: Makita XPS01PTJ Circular Saw Kit, 4. For about 25% of the cost of other track saws WEN offers up an entry-level saw that is, for many, an alternative to a table saw and circular saw all in one. I've used the Festool and while that's clearly superior, I've gotten by just fine with Kreg. Learn whats best for your shop in this hands-on guide. It is easy to see that the Festool track saw is lighter and thus more portable than the Mafell saw. During blind plunge cuts, you cannot always see the route your blade will take. It only reaches out to a couple of feet however so it may not be appropriate for all uses. It also maintains a constant speed while cutting to provide clean, straight cuts. The Kreg ACS3000 track saw kit is the perfect purchase for DIYers and hobbyists that want to dive headfirst into the world of track saws. The Woodsmith Review Teams product reviews and in-depth guides are here to help you choose the best tools and gear to build great-looking projects confidently. But how did we handpick these options? Yes you can use a track saw without a track but you will lose the precision cuts and it will function similar to a circular saw. The price to performance offered by the Makita SP6000J1 is excellent for DIYers and hobbyists, but the reliability and cutting performance isnt quite up to snuff for more serious users. One of the biggest drawbacks of the DEWALT DSC520ST1 is its price point. This is one of Kreg's first adventures into tools, but so far reviews are pointing to it paying off. The stock blade is quite cheap and should be replaced immediately for more serious users. Be especially careful with variable-speed motors. Key features: Most woodworkers that own a track saw will also own a dust extractor. A circular saw, miter saw, or some other saw just cant compete with a track saw for this purpose. Whether you choose a Festool, a Kreg, or a Makita, theres a track saw for you. Makita makes durable and capable machines, and the Makita XPS01PTJ is no exception to that rule. The optimal cutting depth is usually 1/8, but it should not go so deep that it threatens the saws function. The Kreg Adaptive Cutting System is a track-guided circular saw you can use for cutting materials with accuracy and precision. That way, you wont have to measure and mark out each piece individually. The Sidewinder features a powerful 10A heavy-duty motor that can provide impressive speeds up to 5500 RPM. The Kreg KMA2700 is a great choice for anyone who wants to take their precision cutting to the next level. A circular is better than a track saw at making rapid cross-gain cuts in dimensional lumber. Makita SP6000J. The diameter of the blade is 165 millimetres, and the arbour hole is 20 millimetres in diameter, both of which are standard blade sizes. When you are looking for a powerful track saw, nothing even comes close to the DEWALT FLEXVOLT Cordless TrackSaw Kit, which has a premium build and a stellar set of useful features that take your woodworking and cutting experience to a whole new level. A track saw is precisely what it sounds like: a saw with a guide rail track that allows you to make better cuts in wood. The Festool TS 55 REQ saw kit includes an impressive 55 saw track and the included track guide ensures precise cuts. The 1-year manufacturer warranty should help ease your nerves when making the purchase, however. The Mafell track saw weighs 17 pounds while the Festool weighs a mere 4.5 pounds. The performance of the DEWALT DSC520ST1 track saw is solid, but its lack of features combined with its rather low battery runtime makes for a lower price to performance ratio. The track saw is equipped with a sharp 48-tooth blade that measures 8 and cuts deep through a variety of wood and sheet materials that are 2 thick. Track saws, on the other hand, are better at making cuts at different angles aside from 90 degrees. A variable speed dial lets you match the cutting speed to your application and offers between 2,000 to 2,500 RPM. Best Premium Track Saw: Festool 55 Req-F-Plus; 3. Nonetheless, the 6-1/2 inch saw blade should help do the trick. Cutting Capacity: 131 32 " @ 90; 17 16 " @ 45. Couple differences to know: 1) Kreg uses 3/4" dog holes and Festool uses 20mm. Adjusting it before each use ensures proper safety and quality work. Bosch GKT13-225L 6-1/2" Plunge Track Saw Kit, 4. Though many manufacturers have stuck to standards, not all tracks or saws are compatible with one another. With the ability to cut at multiple angles, lengths, and depths, the track saw is a handy companion that can help keep you safe and productive. 18.95 15.79. This saw cuts well with accuracy but can also cause a fair bit of vibration during use. The Bosch GKT13-225L track saw is built solidly from quality materials. While a circular saws accuracy in cutting wood is not the best, it can also cut metal. Powerful 15A motor helps you cut through various materials, Provides a bevel adjustment between 0 and 45, Seems difficult to use the track saw initially, Can cut up to 50 without causing splintering, Dust collection bag helps you prevent messes, Can be used to cut through various types of wood and sheet materials, Presence of slip clutch prevents kickbacks, which can cause accidents, Sharp blade can cut through hardwood easily, Powerful motor delivers speeds up to 5500 RPM, Not suitable for larger woodworking projects, Cut and Shape With Ease: The Best Router Table, The Best Router Leveling Jigs To Make the Right Cuts, Make Cutting Wood Easier With the Best Band Saws, Never clear small pieces while blade is moving, Never adjust saw or setup while saw is running. For easier cleanup, it has a universal 1-1/4 dust port. While Kreg may not be a giant brand name yet, they are certainly making strides in the track saw world with their durable and reliable tools and accessories. Speed: 5,500 rpm. You cant simply make a list of the best track saws out there, and leave Festool out of it. Model PTS01B (the bare tool) retails for $329 and includes the plunge saw, a 40 tool ultra-thin kerf blade, two 27.5-inch tracks, and a track clamp. If you find yourself limited with that particular tool, and you have the space to add a table saw, you can graduate to one. Most track saws work best with wooden materials. Bet it's finicky to use. A plunge cut track saw can also make straight cuts fast and smoothly, despite not having as powerful a motor. The Pocket-Hole Jig 520 is the most versatile jig yet from Kreg with features that adapt and adjust to suit your project-building needs. As youd expect in the professional category, Festool will give you all the features of the top DIY track saw and then some: The TS 75 is almost identical to the TS 55 with the exception of a larger blade (stepping up to a 8-1/4) and a 1600 watt motor to power deeper cuts. (5) Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc, or its affiliates. On the downside, there have been some reports of quality control issues with many customers receiving the track saw with an uneven bottom plate. On-board tool storage. While they can run as low as 2 000 rpm, they can run anywhere between 5 200 rpm and 5 500 rpm, so check your speed before each use. However, the 3-year limited warranty may be the deciding factor for buyers that want to make sure their money is well spent. Capable of cutting depths up to 2 , the DEWALT DWS520K track saw uses a low-profile blade guard so you can get right next to the action. From Makita to Festool to Bosch, theyre all right here. Web/Phone: www.grizzly.com / 800-523-4777. While the Makita SP6000J1 isnt the cheapest track saw on our list, its not too far off the price of our budget pick. This may seem odd, but many track saws are sold without an included track. If you are in the woodworking trade, power saws are the companion you need to cut through various materials. Set your depth of cut properly too. We cover 5 of the best saws on the market, analyzing three key determining factors based on build quality, performance, and price. Whenever this need arises, they often use a jig to guide their cutting, A good band saw helps you cut through metal, wood, and various other materials without a hassle. While a track saw is one of the most versatile and portable saws, there are a few things to remember before using one, especially if youre new to woodworking. This machine also tends to vibrate quite a bit, causing hand fatigue faster than its competitors. Historically, the plunge-cut tool was first introduced by Festool in 1980. And, with Festool having a long history of being a top tool provider youll gain all the features noted below. We think the Kreg Adaptive Cutting System 2000 is the perfect track saw setup for hobbyists and DIYers that are looking to expand their collection of tools without breaking their bank. For my Makita I opted for both a Makita brand track and a Powertec track. I used to think I wanted a panel saw, but the track saw has taken care of . If youre looking for a cheap track saw and you already own a circular saw, the handy Kreg KMA2685 might be a better option for you. I recently picked up the Kreg ACS track saw and after using it for about a week I feel like it's just okay. And track saws let you setup that foam-topped bench and quickly make large sheet cuts or trim live edge slabs. A track saw that has variable speeds between 2000 RPM and 5000 RPM is generally favorable for your requirements. Learn what brands and mounts are best for your project. Both feature a powerful, fast circular blade that helps the saws perform similarly. And with more saws each year bringing Lithium cutting capability these brands are where to start: Makita XPS01Z By cutting the cord on the track saw youll free your cutting concerns to placement of the dust hose (only). Our Festool model was a good runner-up, but there can only be one winner here. For woodworkers that live from their garage you know that space is a premium. Luckily, a spring-loaded riving knife and anti-kickback mechanism prevent kickback, and a straight plunge mechanism makes it easier to use. Let us go through the differences between Festool and Makita guide rails one by one: Difference 1: Guide ridge width In both the Festool and the Makita rail system, the lateral guiding of the track saw is taken care of by a square guide ridge on the left-hand side of the track top face. Kreg ACS-SAW Triton TTS1400 And with a range from $300-700 for a saw and track there's a quality saw for every budget. Chad Stanton 66.6K subscribers 134K views 3 years ago Track Saws are all the rage, but when it comes to buying one what features should you look. The Festool TSC 55 is almost identical to its corded counterpart with the exception of a dual 18/36V battery system powering the blade. With these saws its best to consider them in two categories to help split budget vs. features and capability. The Kreg is a bit heavier than the Festool. Luckily, the Festool track guide and the saw itself stay firmly in place. And like the Dewalt and Makita youll find this saw as a bare tool or bundled with accessories. While brand preference may factor into most tool purchases, a track saw might tempt woodworkers to switch things up. The Bosch GKT13-225L track saw is on the more expensive side of the track saws on our list, especially considering it doesnt come with an included track like many of its competitors do. And has performed incredibly well in thick and thin cuts. A track saw can help you measure one piece of stock and then make exact duplicates. (4) As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases linked from this site. The Tool Scout is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. So, even with the expense of picking up another battery line, I opted for the Makita as it is has all of the key features of the corded version. The track saw is equipped with a sharp 48-tooth blade that measures 8 " and cuts deep through a variety of wood and sheet materials that are 2 " thick. Those who own one are very happy with the purchase. Festool vs. Kreg Track Saw- Should You Own It ? You can use track saws without them, but guide rails help keep the saw on the set path and protect you from splinters. Bevel capacity at -1to 48 with positive stops at 22.5 & 45, Variable speed control trigger precisely regulates blade speed, The guiding rail stays firmly in place delivering a finer finish cut, The soft-start feature helps increase the longevity of the saw, The scoring feature feels unnecessary and falls off easily, Has a hard time cutting plywoods thicker than one inch, Excellent for cutting all kinds of materials (especially plywood), DeWalts powerful 60v brushless motor plows through hardwood, Highly efficient 60v cordless battery delivers corded performance, Straight, splinter-free cuts with DeWalts zero clearance system, Might lock up sometimes after extended use (fix with lubrication), High demand for this track saw has caused some supply issues, Precise plunge mechanism for deeper and more accurate cuts, Extremely lightweight track saw with magnesium footplate, Superb dust extraction system is on par with vacuum cleaners, Three-step blade change system with fast action spindle lock, Saw has a little more friction, so it doesnt cut as smoothly, A little limiting in comparison to DCS520ST1 as its corded, No blade pinching with Festools spring-loaded riving knife system, Fast blade changes with FastFix system by locking arbor quickly, Engineered with a triple-bearing motor & includes a soft start mode, Produces quality splinter-free cutswith cutting depth 0 2-1/8, High-quality German engineering comes with a high price tag $$$, The option to upgrade from 75 guide rails to 118 is very costly, Great budget track saw that delivers A-1 splinter-free finish cuts, The blade-left design makes this the ideal saw for right-handers, 62 anodized aluminum guide rail with anti-chip strip technology, Robust 12-amp motor with load compensation anti-kickback control, The variable speed trigger is less responsive than Makitas, Less user-friendly features No place to store saw wrench, Allows you to move the material across the saw, You can add different parts for more efficient use, It might require more assistance if you cut bigger pieces, Features a powerful, fast-working circular blade, Cuts many pieces of wood without overheating or wearing down, The anti-slip track keeps the saw in place, Makita SP6000J1 6-1/2" Plunge Circular Saw Kit, 1. A: If you're in the market to buy a track saw, you can expect to pay $400 to $600 to buy a high-quality track saw. Make sure you connect everything firmly and take it slow for your first few passes to make sure everything is staying in place. Moreover, the track saw is equipped with a cordless technology, thanks to the powerful lithium-ion battery. At first I couldn't quite get the hang of this interlock switch, but after a few minutes of getting acquainted with the tool, I had no trouble. So, many users have upgraded to a standard track saw blade (48 tooth, ultra fine ATB). The large cutting capacity of 2 3/16 inches at 90 degrees and 1 9/16 inches at 45 degrees is perfect for almost any job. You can also choose to use a cordless track saw or plug it into the wall. Rob and some of his crew took a hard look at the major Track Saw models on the market and see how they "lined up". Having a track saw that can make bevel cuts is quite useful, as they can enhance your woodworking experience and allow you to work on numerous projects. Kreg Tracksaw It's the Kreg ACS1000 if you google it more pics come up. 1. Best Basic Track Saw: Shop Fox W1835, 9. Since the point of using a track saw is getting accurate and straight cuts, an uneven base is obviously a big problem as it can cause the blade to have play and be uneven. And for professionals, who already know Festool is the pinnacle of tool quality, their models hit all the key features you need: Coming down a price tier, the Makita has all the features you need. Other than the battery power, youll find the Dewalt FlexVolt track saw to be comparable. Triton TTSCS3000 22 x 3000mm Plunge Track Saw Track Cut Strips . And they also feature a top notch reputation and distribution channel (read: warranty and repairs). Power tools can help make jobs go by faster, easier, and with much more precisionwhich is exactly what track saws are designed to accomplish. This track saw comes with a 10 Amp motor capable of throwing out speeds of up to 5,500 RPM. The Makita XPS01PTJ offers precision and power with batteries that last for roughly 1-2 hours of constant cutting. The kit comes with the track saw, a 60V battery and charger, a tool box, blade, and the 59 track. Woodsmiths editorial staff is not involved. Best Warranty: DEWALT DSC520ST1 Track Saw Kit; 6. Evolution is a pretty solid brand when it comes to power tools, so there is no doubt that the R185CCSX has an impressive build quality with some wonderful features that puts it into contention. But after a lot of research I ended up with a cordless Makita. While corded track saws provide you with more power, cordless track saws are more portable and easy to operate. A: If you are looking to make long and accurate cuts, track saws are worth it.