On Wed, 22 Nov 2006 16:53:23 -0500, Chris Wolf
wrote:

I'm interested in something in the $500-$1,000 range, where some of the
better-reviewed saws seem to be the Ridgid 3650, the new Craftsman models, and
the Dewalt. Since my shop is small, the compact size of the Dewalt is
especially appealing.

The Ridgid comes in lots and lots of pieces, I don't think you'd have
any problem carrying it downstairs (there are a couple really heavy
pieces, you'd better have help). When I helped a friend put his
together, it went together easily and works wonderfully. Haven't
tried putting together any other contractor's saws though but I would
assume they're similar.