If you are into woodworking, you probably might have heard about track saws. This saw is very important whether you are a professional woodworker or a DIY enthusiast. Track saw is also known as plunge saw because you can make plunge cuts with it. The track saw might look similar to the circular saw, but there are a few differences as well. In case of track saw, the blade is concealed within machine itself.
The main benefits that you get from track saw that it is versatile, accurate and portable at the same time. If you have track saw then it can be used as a table saw, miter saw, circular saw and a panel saw as well.
Especially when you are dealing with large workpieces, then there is no better option than the track saw.
Today, in this article, we’ll compare two very popular track saws of makita and festool. We’ll dive into different aspects like build quality, maintenance and more.
As, these tools cost hundreds of dollars, so it’s important that you go through the whole article and then decide which one to buy.
Makita Xps01ptj Review
Makita Xps01ptj Specs
| Makita Xps01ptj | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Weight | 11.2 pounds |
| Dimensions | 12.1 x 16 x 19.6 inches |
| Batteries | 2 Lithium ion batteries |
| Voltage | 36 volts |
| Wattage | 90 watts |
| Batteries Included? | Yes |
| Included | Brushless 6-1/2" Plunge Circular Saw, (2) 18V LXT Lithium-Ion, 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Dual Port Charger, Hex Wrench & More |
| Warranty Description | 3-year |
| Reviews | Read Here |
Accessories
When you go for this track saw, you get all the required tools with it. You don’t have to buy anything separately. Below is the list of items that you would be getting with this model during the time of delivery. You can also go with the bare tool but it’s recommended to go with the track saw kit.
- Brushless 6-1/2″ Plunge Circular Saw
- 18V LXT Lithium-Ion 5.0Ah Battery
- 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Dual Port Charger
- Cordless Plunge Saw Blade
- Hex Wrench
- Interlocking Case
Build Quality
Makita Products are known for their durable build quality and this model is one of them. It comes with two LXT batteries and you don’t have to worry about the cord hassle. It comes with soft operation which gives you the smooth operation and reduces the chances of motor wear. You can also set the depth with large scale. It is a very sturdy model and you feel very less vibration while using it. Its dual and rear bevel support provides accurate bevel cuts. With the help of hex wrench, you can also change the blades very easily. With the locking lever, you keep the blade in right position and with the help of wrench, you can do the installation. Its handle has rubberized soft grip that gives you full control over the tool and you feel comfortable working on it.
Cutting Capacity
Its built-in depth allows you to make the preliminary cut without cutting through the entire material which helps you in having a clean splinter free cutting. You can also use it for different kinds of application whether it’s cutting large wood panels or close to the wall cutting. The bevel capacity is from -1 to 48 degress and you get positive stops at 22.5 & 45 degrees.
Powerful Motor
Makita comes with brushless motors which goes upto 6300 RPM in No load condition and delivers the maximum performance. Because of brushless motors, you get 50% more run time. It has electronic speed control which maintains the constant speed even in high load condition. The model comes with very thin kerf carbide tipped blade which provides 66% more cuts than the conventional blade.
Ease of Use
The tool is very easy to use. Even though, you are a beginner, you’ll get used to it in couple of days. It also comes with large 1-7/16 inch rear dust port with which you can easily connect the vacuum and do the cleaning. It optional guide rail system aligns perfectly with the saw and you get smooth and straight cut. When you are doing the bevel cuts, you can engage the guide rail with slide lever that will provide you the better stability. Its electronic brakes maximizes the productivity and could be real life save in case emergency. It’s recommended to go through the user manual before you start using this tool. You can read more about specs over here.
Festool TS 55 REQ Track Saw Review
Festool TS 55 REQ Specs
| Festool TS 55 REQ | Specs |
|---|---|
| Weight | 19.56 pounds |
| Dimensions | 12.2 x 11.5 x 15.5 inches |
| Voltage | 120 volts |
| Measurement System | Metric |
| Stand Included | Yes |
| Riving Knife | Yes |
| Blade Change | FastFix System |
| Power Source | AC Corded |
| Reviews | Read Here |
Festool makes products for advanced users and their products are slightly expensive than the other brands. This model is one of their most popular model online. Below are some of the important features that you should be aware of.
Build Quality
This Model comes with amazing build quality. It has all the safety features that you need in a track saw. It comes with riving knife which keeps the cut kerf open and keep the wood away from the blade rear. It reduces the chances of kickback and you feel comfortable working on this tool.
Efficient & Accurate
This track saw is also very efficient and allows you to have full control over the tool so that you can make the cuts at your disposal. You can work on different kinds of projects with effectiveness. According to the users, this saw gives laser straight splinter free cuts that you will not find with any other model.
Versatile
This saw is also very versatile. There are two available sizes that you can go for. In terms of blade options, there are total nine that you can go for. According to the company, because of its guide rail splinterguard, you get zero tearout cuts which reduces the material waste and rework.
Dust Collection
Dust Collection is one of the most overlooked feature though it plays a huge role in your work efficiency. It comes with swivel dust port and you can easily hookup the vacuum and keep you workplace neat and tidy.
Other Features
- If you want the better experience, don’t go with the bare tool. Better go with Guide Rail Extension Set or Accessory kit. Be ready to spend $200- $300 extra.
- The track saws are quickly becoming popular among users and being preferred over table saws.
- It comes with FastFix blade change mechanism which makes the installation super quick.
