Hello All, new to wood working

[ncreefer]

Hello All,
I'm definitely a newbie when it comes to woodworking, but my new father in law has been pointing me in the right direction in this new hobby/addiction. As for my tools I'm slowly starting my collection. I have the basics a compound miter, jigsaw, circular saw, drill and a router. In my search of a beginner table saw I've found this site and figured I could ask for some help on a beginner table saw. I had the choice between getting a miter or table saw and opted for the miter because I was in the process of putting up molding. Now I regret not getting the tablesaw, I just didn't want to get the cheap tablesaw bottom of the line craftsmen or skil tablesaw. I just need something basic to get me started. Any suggestions? I've researched the Ryobi and Hitachi, but I've not seen to many good reviews on either.

And my other addiction is saltwater aquariums.

Thanks for your future advice.

[merrill77]

Originally Posted by ncreefer

Can you really trust a used table saw off of CL? After reading your section on Health/Safety it worries me a little buying a used piece of equipment that can do so much damage. What should I look for, as far as quality?

Honestly, if it was a good tool to start with, it's kinda hard to beat it up too much without it being obvious. Take a scrap with you and see how it cuts. Listen to it for any funny sounds. Give it the nickle test (stand a nickel on edge and turn it on - if it remains standing, it is running very smooth). I'll bet you can find a NCWWer in your area that would be happy to come along and give it the once-over with an experienced eye. If you find one in the Raleigh area, I'd be happy to help out.

[BKind2Anmls]

Welcome. Although I've been woodworking for several years, I will always be new to some part of it. I try to choose projects so that I learn at least one new skill each time. I would suggest your local library for books and maybe smartflix.com for DVD rentals. Amazon. com has several used woodworking books for a penny, but then you have to pay $4 for shipping.

[Partman]

Welcome to the site. Glad to have you join.

Danny