Relay-Version: version B 2.10 5/3/83; site utzoo.UUCP
Posting-Version: version B 2.10.1 6/24/83; site linus.UUCP
Path: utzoo!linus!ell
From: ell@linus.UUCP (Edward L. Lafferty)
Newsgroups: net.rec.wood
Subject: Re: Shopsmith inquiry
Message-ID: <767@linus.UUCP>
Date: Sun, 26-Feb-84 17:27:20 EST
Article-I.D.: linus.767
Posted: Sun Feb 26 17:27:20 1984
Date-Received: Sun, 26-Feb-84 23:29:56 EST
References: <284@nbires.UUCP>
Organization: MITRE Corp., Bedford MA
Lines: 22

Combination machines very seldom will perform as well as machines built
for a particular operation. The Shopsmith is a good lathe but a pretty
poor table saw. Since the most important woodworking tool is the table
saw, you will not very satisfied with Shopsmith for long unless you
intend to do only very small work and not very often. The table is
small and tilts rather than the arbor as on a normal table saw. For
long boards you can't do an angle crosscut because the ceiling or floor
get in the way. It is also a pain to change attachments and convert the
machine to do the various things. You would like to be able to go from
the saw to drill press and back again. With a combination machine you
plan your operations so as not to make many changes. 

Generally, used tools will be a better buy. They are probably old and
well made, although you have to be careful that they are accurate and
have not been damaged.

If you are really cramped for space then a combination tool is OK but
you should look at the other choices. They cost more but will be more 
satisfying in the long run. Better combinations are available, like a 
jointer, planer and saw. These are much more important tools than a
lathe and drill press.