Popular Woodworking 2000-12 № 119, страница 19

MAKITA'S NEW FiXED-BASE ROUTERS

With the introduction of the 1100 and 1101 series routers this year, Makita has regained its reputation for building top-quality routers. These four new tools (offered in variable and fixed speeds, and in a D-handle or straight base) are well designed, packed with power and easy to use. Fueled by an efficient 11 amp (2^4 hp) universal motor in a small and lightweight package (less than 8 lbs.), these tools offer soft-start technology, low vibration and electronic speed control to maintain maximum torque. Operating at about 81dB, these routers are quiet (though you still need hearing protection). In our opinion these machines have the easiest height adjustment mechanism on the market today. The pressure buckle release on the base is smooth, and the motor spins up and down in the base with ease, even after months of use. Other features include an 8-foot rubber power cord, externally accessible brushes and both V4" and V2" collets. These routers are a pleasure to use. And though they carry a higher price ($200 to $240) than some competing tools, they're well worth the money.

Contact Makita at 800-4MAKITA or www.makitausa.com

GRIZZLY'S BARGAIN CABINET SAW

Grizzly sneaked this tool into its 2000 catalog before we heard about it, and all we could say was, "wow!" The G1023S is a variation on an existing Grizzly cabinet saw, but the addition of a Biesemeyer clone fence system made us jump to test it. The 3hp (18 amp), 220 volt saw, priced at $755 (plus shipping), surpassed our expectations. Sporting two solid cast iron wings, abetter than average miter gauge with adjustable T-bar and both a standard and dado blade insert, we couldn't wait to plug it in. Assembly went very well with only slight adjustments to bring it into spec. Grizzly deserves high marks for the fit, finish and performance of the saw. A 2hp model (G1023S-110) that will run on 110 power is also available for about the same price. Both saws are a really great value, so anyone considering a contractor saw can now step up to a cabinet saw for about the same price. With the increased performance, a quality rip fence, a solid cabinet-mounted trunnion support for the blade and the low price, this saw is truly a Best New Tool for 2000.

Contact Grizzly at 800-523-4777 or www.grizzly.com

NEW METABO JiGSAWS ARE WORKHORSES

Most U.S. woodworkers have probably never heard of Metabo, which is German for "metal boring." But that should change soon. The company based in Nurtingen, Germany, has a new line of jigsaws that rival (and some might say surpass) the great jigsaws produced by another German company, Bosch. The STE105 and STEB105 jigsaws are simply outstanding tools. The jigsaw we tested produced clean, splinter-free cuts in a variety of hardwoods and softwoods. The two models (one's a barrel grip the other's a top-handle design) are both powered by a 6-amp motor, have five orbital settings (which control how aggressive the cut is) and an impressive 1" stroke, which is the length the blade travels. The blades are held in place with a spring-mounted clamp. Pull a lever back and the blades comes free — no screwdrivers or hex keys necessary. Dust collection is superb. The business end of the saw has a clear plastic shroud that directs the dust back to the port at the rear of the machine. You're also probably wondering how this tool will hold up. One of our contributing editors has been using a Metabo jigsaw almost every day in his cabinetshop for more than a year and reports that the tool is nearly indestructible. At $219, the Metabo might just be the last jigsaw you ever need.

Contact Metabo at 800-638-2264 or www.metabousa.com

34 Popular Woodworking December 1000