I'm a newbie myself (and also the white-collar guy looking to do something
tangible besides drug development). I too started out with entry-level
stuff. My biggest, biggest mistake was buying a really cheap-o TS. My old
B&D jigsaw, my free, very-old DeWalt circular saw were fine for a few
projects. As they broke down and/or started needing more precision, then I
upgraded to a Milwaukee jigsaw, in the interim, I bought a Skil circular
saw. Still not the greatest saw in the world, but when I put in a Freud
blade, it was like somebody gave me this amazing, brand new machine. I have
a Delta ShopMaster chop saw (their entry level stuff). Again, a Freud blade
made a huge difference. I am still using my ultra-sh*tty Crapsman tablesaw.
But I am learning how to cut dados and rabbets with it, and so for that,
it's pretty useful. It's a good learning tool.

My SWMBO has noticed that I actually might be able to do some stuff, and she
has made a list of things to make. Before I tackle even a quilt chest, I am
making a portable bench for my Crapsman TS to sit on, which I will sell the
saw with. A good project that is forgiving. She gave me permission to buy
a new TS, and after I finish my bench and build a sand box for my daughter,
the Crapsman is outta here.

You don't need a Unisaw at this stage, but you can get a decent TS for
around $500 or less. My advice, as a novice, would be to buy as much TS as
your checkbook and common sense will let you. Avoid portable saws (I have
found that you will need the weight), but a lot of people claim that the
Ryobi BT3100 is exceptional saw for a small price tag. I am buying better
stuff as my ability grows, but you can make do for the beginning projects
that we all tackle.

And then my last bit of newbie advice, buy the best blades you can get your
mits on. Maybe you and I don't need a Woodworker II, but at least buy
Freuds.

Enjoy,

Dave in Dallas


On 4/18/04 20:11, in article ,
"Corey" wrote:

I am thinking about getting started in woodworking (white collar guy looking
to produce something tangible). I've been reading this newsgroup, looking
through some of the popular WW magazines, and read the woodworking for
dummies book. For background, the only saw I've ever used is a jigsaw
playing around. So I am the most novice you can think of.

I've read the advice on buying quality tools vs. the "intro" tools. But I
have a bunch of intro tools as gifts or inherited (Craftsman table saw,
router and table, some off brand 8 1/4" compund miter saw, old small drill
press, a ripsaw/circular saw - can't remember the correct term, a small
bandsaw, and a couple of power sanders). Since I've never done any work,
I'm sure I'm going to have a big learning curve - and who knows if I'll want
to even stick with it. So...

Should I stick with these inferior tools for starters to try the hobby out
and hone my skills? Or am I wasting my time with the lower end tools?

Thanks for your opinions.