Model-making tool recommendations needed

[JNCarr]

I friend has been making foam/plaster models for some time and has begun doing more with wood.
He's interested in getting a table saw and potentially other tools used for thin ply, balsa, etc.
Any recommendations?

 

[Berta]

I have a PROXXON table saw in my scrolling area. It’s a mini saw. It works well, dust collection is excellent. The blade is about 4” it’s nice for quick little cuts.

 

[Mike Davis]

I don't have any but have often thought I would like to own all the Proxxon tools.
They seem to be the perfect thing for model making.

 

[Berta]

Of course I also recommend a scroll saw.

 

[mpeele]

I have met several miniature makers that swear by Byrnes Machines. Byrnes Model Machines - Thickness Sander

 

[Mike Davis]

I have met several miniature makers that swear by Byrnes Machines. Byrnes Model Machines - Thickness Sander

I can't find prices on the machines, only the accessories.

 

[bowman]

The owner passed away a couple years ago, looks like still no decision posted on the future of the company...

 

[ScottM]

Since those are all thin or soft materials any small table saw would work. What will be key will be finding a quality fine tooth blade. I would think at least 80 teeth. Another option is a quality small band saw. Pegas makes an excellent one. For the record I do not own a Pegas band saw but I did play with one at Klingspor a few years back.

 

[Hmerkle]

I friend has been making foam/plaster models for some time and has begun doing more with wood.
He's interested in getting a table saw and potentially other tools used for thin ply, balsa, etc.
Any recommendations?

You know what I am going to recommend - the Festool CSC Sys 50... YUP, it is expensive.
The basic advantages I see for a model maker;
1. The dust collection is superior to anything out there.
2. Thin kerf blade
3. Set blade height with digital accuracy
4. repeatable blade height
5. sliding table

Also there are a TON of TSO and Benchdog accessories that make it even better!
Oh, and it is available at one of my favorite stores: Klingspor's Woodworking Shop

 

[Roy G]

Keep your eyes open for a used printer's saw like a Hammond. Very precise and doesn't take up much room.

Roy G

 

[Berta]

Since those are all thin or soft materials any small table saw would work. What will be key will be finding a quality fine tooth blade. I would think at least 80 teeth. Another option is a quality small band saw. Pegas makes an excellent one. For the record I do not own a Pegas band saw but I did play with one at Klingspor a few years back.

I was impressed with it as well. I did read that the blades are so thin they keep breaking.

 

[ScottM]

I was impressed with it as well. I did read that the blades are so thin they keep breaking.

For the type and thickness of wood we are talking about that should not be an issue.

 

[JNCarr]

Thanks all -
Hey Hank - since my friend's the one buying, I have no problem with the Festool price!

 

[Berta]

While I was lost in the PROXXON YouTube vortex I saw a thickness planer and a jointer! One person actually found a PROXXON tablesaw blade that fit his fretboard slots he needed. So he built a crosscut sled for his PROXXON table saw and cut his frets on the saw!

 

[Berta]

While I was lost in the PROXXON YouTube vortex I saw a thickness planer and a jointer! One person actually found a PROXXON tablesaw blade that fit his fretboard slots he needed. So he built a crosscut sled for his PROXXON table saw and cut his frets on the saw!

I just checked. The table saw that I have is no longer available. There is a new table saw that is a bit different and less expensive!

 

[bob vaughan]

Keep your eyes open for a used printer's saw like a Hammond. Very precise and doesn't take up much room.

Roy G

I'll second this suggestion. I've had one for about 30 years (actually on my second one) and love it for small stuff as well as large.

For a drill press the Servo 7000 circuit board drill can't be beat for precision and quiet. I've been around some of the 'budget' small drill presses. They sound like the world's cheapest kitchen blender ever offered.

 

[Mark Fogleman]

This is on FaceBook Marketplace and is the ultimate small tablesaw. Plus you have a PTO and mount for a mortiser. Made in Austria.

 

[JNCarr]

This is on FaceBook Marketplace and is the ultimate small tablesaw. Plus you have a PTO and mount for a mortiser. Made in Austria.
View attachment 237605View attachment 237604

Very nice - If I were looking for one, this might be it!
Thanks.

 

[bob vaughan]

I think that the Inca saws have a metric size arbor and a metric size miter gauge slot. I'm sure that Forrest could do a special bore for a blade.

 

[Hmerkle]

That Inca saw is awesome!
We put a LOT of Bd. Ft. through the one at the shop in '88 / '89!