Popular Woodworking 2000-04 № 114, страница 55

Tool Test

How WE RATE TOOLS

We test a lot of tools at Popular Woodworking, and while we don't often test tools until they fall apart, we do give them an honest, real-world workout. Each issue we share the results of our hands-on experience with you and offer insights to help guide your shopping decisions.The ratings reflect the opinion of the magazine's editorial staff.

Here's how our rating system works. Performance: A rating of "five" indicates we think this tool is a leader in its category — for now. (You won't likely see performance ratings of "one" or "two" in these reviews because we wouldn't publicize an inferior tool.) Value: "Five" is a great tool for the money; "one" isn't the mark of a value. However, a low "value" rating shouldn't prevent you from buying that tool. Some tools might be worth a little more because they're one-of-a-kind or just a really great tool.

If you have a question about a tool — whether it's been reviewed or not — you can contact me at (513) 531-2690, ext. 255, or by email at DavidT@FWPubs.com.

And by the way, many of our past tool reviews appear on our website at www.popwood.com, including data on entire categories of tools (such as table saws). Check it out.

—David Thiel, senior editor

Delta's Miter Sled Outperforms After market Miter Gauges

We all know that the miter gauge that comes with a table saw should be replaced or upgraded. As a result, some companies have been selling precision miter gauges that use a fence and stop system so you can cut lots of parts to identical size. It's a great feature. They also are a lot more accurate when it comes to miter cuts. Delta's new miter sled (the 36-205), which is just a few dollars more than the high-end gauges ($180 or less), outperforms them in two important areas. First, you can crosscut really long pieces, up to 60" long. In comparison, Osborne's new miter gauge is limited to pieces 27" long; Incra's handles work up to 24¹/2" long. If you make small boxes, that's OK. But when you want to trim four table legs to size, you're going to want at least 30". Second, when you crosscut panels to size, Delta's large sled and the T-slot retaining washers on the miter bar allow you to cut panels up to 27" wide, something that's more difficult to do with any miter gauge.

There are a few things that could be improved. I wish the sled came with a tape measure on the fence, though that's inexpensive to add yourself. Second, adjusting the fence to 90 degrees to the blade is a fussy procedure that took several attempts to get just right. Finally, it's no fun getting the sled to work on Jet or Powermatic table saws. But if you own a Delta table saw and can't afford a sliding crosscut table, look no further. For more information, circle #180 on the Resource Directory Coupon.

Performance: ••••O Value: •••GO

Makita: 800-462-5482, or www.makita.com

Makita Takes a Good ROS a Step Further

When Makita introduced the B05010 random orbit sander, we were impressed with the aggressive nature of the lightweight 2.0-amp palm-grip tool. Makita's latest sander is based on the same design but adds variable speed and handles that give you more control over the motor's raw sanding power. With the simple turn of a thumb dial, you can vary the speed of the B05021K between 4,000 and 12,000 orbits per minute. This is a great feature for when you want to take it nice and slow on a piece of veneer, for example. The B05021K also offers the same outstanding "through-the-pad" dust collection system as the B05010. These sanders collect dust better than any other sander we've tried without a vacuum attached. Other bonuses include the trigger and front handle. If you have to sand in tight places, you can quickly remove the handle. The trigger locks on with the push of an extra button so you can sand in short bursts or settle in for a long sanding session. If you want more control than you get with a palm-grip sander, but don't want to lug around one of the large right-angle machines, here's your tool. For more information, circle #181 on the Resource Directory Coupon.

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12 Popular Woodworking April 2000