I'm working with some rough lumber, specifically maple and walnut, measuring about 52x250mm (around 2"x10"). I want to cut these into thin panels, approximately 5mm thick, to use as tops and bottoms for guitars. In the past, I've utilized a large table saw at a workshop, which allowed me to make cuts on the 52mm side, producing four 6mm thick panels that I then planed down to the desired thickness. However, I want to set up a home workshop, and unfortunately, I don't have the space or budget for a big table saw. What alternatives are out there for someone with a small shop? Would a high-quality hand rip saw work for making those 250mm wide cuts, or is that asking too much?
1 Answer
That sounds like quite a task! Ideally, for cutting such thick wood, you'd want a bandsaw. A small 14" bandsaw with an extension could do the job for those 250mm cuts. If you have to stick to manual tools, consider a larger bandsaw to handle the size you need. It's all about what works best for your setup!
I have a small bandsaw too, but it won't handle that thickness well, so I get your struggle. It really limits what you can do with the wood!