"Larry Jaques" wrote in message
...
On Thu, 21 Oct 2010 10:59:27 -0500, Swingman wrote:

On 10/21/2010 9:52 AM, Larry Jaques wrote:

I look for value. In most tools, ultimate performance isn't required.
I'm still casually eyeing Makita's SP6000K when noone's looking. Why
didn't Festool build in an anti-tilt lever for bevel cuts?


Anti-tilt lever?

From their flyer: http://fwd4.me/ige 1.8mb download

"Slide lever built into the saw base locks the saw to the guide
rail to help support the saw while making bevel cuts."

From what I've read only:

The Makita needs it because it is prone to kickbacks as it does not have
a riving knife; and I think the Makita might also cut a bit past 45
degrees (48?), which, both of these issues combined, would make it a
necessity, IMO.

Why on Earth would a circular saw on a RAIL need a riving knife for
kickback protection? Especially when it's primarily used on panel
products which, by nature, don't get the urge to close up like
improperly dried hardwood lumber might.

Well first off what makes you think it is only used on panel projects, I
have used mine on regular wood also. The Festool saw is meant to cut
anything you would normally cut with a circular saw, maybe the Makita is
not.



Neither Festool saw needs the "anti-tilt lever" for bevel cuts. I've
done a few of these cuts in plywood and have no idea why one would be
remotely necessary.

I haven't yet used one (plugged in) so I can't tell you from
experience. But if you're hanging the motor off the edge of the rail,
I'd think you'd want both clamps for the rail and a catch on the saw
to keep it more steady. shrug

At a steep bevel angle the saw will lift off of the sled, IF you let go.
Under normal operating conditions it has no suprises.