I'm in the market for my first table saw and I've got a tight budget to stick to. I'm leaning towards the new Kobalt TS10602, which I can snag for about $275 with my military discount. However, I just found a used Bosch 4100 on FB marketplace for only $200. The Kobalt has gotten a lot of positive reviews, but I'm learning that the Bosch might be a better saw overall, at least when it's new. I'm not planning to use it very often, possibly just for home repairs and some small projects. The current owner of the Bosch has used it in their woodworking shop for almost a decade. Do you think it's a reliable choice? Any advice would be awesome, thanks!
3 Answers
I’d say go for the Skill over the Kobalt if you're looking for value. The Skill TS6307 is a fantastic saw for its price and has a great fence system. Plus, parts are easy to find online. The Kobalt might be similar but usually lacks in quality. If you're using your military discount at Lowe's, consider checking out the Skill too!
Honestly, you might want to save up a little more for something better, like a hybrid or cabinet saw if you can swing it. I’ve had my share of upgrades and love the saying, 'buy once, cry once.' You can find quality used cabinet saws in the $600-$700 range, which could save you trouble down the line. Just a thought if you're willing to wait a bit!
Good question! If you have the floor space, I'd suggest looking for a contractor type saw instead of a smaller job site saw. They generally have more features, like a riving knife, and better stability. They can also take a dado set, which is something many smaller saws struggle with. If you can accommodate it, a contractor saw would serve you much better in the long run.