Northern Tool Dry Cut Saw

[TLC76]

Just ordered one of these for $230 shipped, thought I'd throw it up here in case anyone's interested.

Promo code is 161064 from (expires 5/18) http://dealspl.us/northerntool-coupons

Saw:

http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200326857_200326857

 

[Jetboy]

Consider doing a review after having it a few months or a year. It's a good price if the quality is comparable to other similar units.

 

[TLC76]

Good reviews on the site, I've read a number of posts on other forums and it seems that the big compalint with this type of saw is the crappy vise, didn't see any specific issues with the northern and it was half the price of the Milwaukee's. The saw actually looked like it might be an older Milwaukee model, maybe they bought the tooling and rebadged.

 

[Jetboy]

The vices on all of them are junk. I'm not real sure how you'd make a better one that's economical though.

 

[TLC76]

Once again, economics interferes with producing a really great tool.

 

[TLC76]

UPS came struggling up to my door with the saw a couple days ago, finally had a chance to try it. Must have been slammed pretty hard in shipping, as there is a stop held on by 2 screws, and it hit so hard it sheared the screws off. Also slammed the blade down into the chip drawer, had to use a mallet to knock it out. Hammered it flat again, checked the blade and things look fine.

I have to admit it felt a little strange using the blade on steel for the first time, I'd only cut with bandsaws and abrasives/sawzall. This thing cuts through steel like butter, and leaves an amazing clean edge. Only did a couple cuts on some .120 tubing, but impressed so far. I'll post an update once I've put some miles on it.

 

[Jetboy]

One thing you really really have to be careful of is the piece not being secure. If it can move the blade might catch a tooth and usually it ruin a $100 blade instantly breaking off a bunch of teeth. Dull blades can be sharpened. I have a HF cheapo sharpener, and it's a bit tedious to setup, but I sharpen my blades and they work great. For $40, if you get just two good cutting uses out of a blade it's paid for its self. - I'm sure you've also found out that ear plugs, eye protection, and some type of head cover like a hat are necessary.

 

[TLC76]

I'm sure you've also found out that ear plugs, eye protection, and some type of head cover like a hat are necessary.

I also wear a condom just in case

Poor clamping is definitely a very bad thing in any metal cutting operation, I've ruined a blade or two on the bandsaw that way.

 

[firestopper]

TLC76,
I just shared this with a co worker and he picked one up for $215.00
Thanks.