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Main Boards => The Bowyer's Bench => Topic started by: RVSwisher on October 15, 2008, 11:36:00 PM

Title: Tools
Post by: RVSwisher on October 15, 2008, 11:36:00 PM
Are most of you using table top tools (sanders, band saw, drill presses) or bigger floor models?

Thanks
Title: Re: Tools
Post by: deadpool on October 16, 2008, 12:39:00 AM
I dont, but I'm not sayin it would help a load and save allot of time, but theres something about doin it by hand that makes me appreciate the bow I'm making even more.
Title: Re: Tools
Post by: Pat B on October 16, 2008, 08:57:00 AM
I have a floor model band saw and a table top belt/disc belt sander. Most of my bow making tools are hand tools...I build self and wood backed bows.    Pat
Title: Re: Tools
Post by: Eric Krewson on October 16, 2008, 09:03:00 AM
I started out with bench top sanders and jointers as well as a 12" craftsman bandsaw. At that time I was making bows in the corner of my garage and out under the maple tree in the front yard, had to move my power tools outside to use them.

When I built a shop I replaced all my early power tools with larger floor models.
Title: Re: Tools
Post by: **DONOTDELETE** on October 16, 2008, 09:09:00 AM
I have a small table saw & band saw. Everything else is hand tools. I do know the best tool I have is Eric's gizmo for tillering.
Title: Re: Tools
Post by: Apex Predator on October 16, 2008, 10:01:00 AM
Started with all table top models, and have replaced the bandsaw and belt sander with larger free-standing units.
Title: Re: Tools
Post by: BMN on October 16, 2008, 10:27:00 AM
Floor model bandsaw. Bench model drill press and belt/spindle sander.
Title: Re: Tools
Post by: TimZeigler on October 16, 2008, 11:30:00 AM
Good floor model bandsaw will go along way.  Benchtop tools will work fine depending on the amount you build, and can be upgraded later on if you see the need.  Don't skimp out on the bandsaw, I found a good used one for half the price and it was well worth it.  

Most of my big tools are used, and I found them through classified ads in the local paper and craigslist.

I have a floor model Bandsaw, Jointer, Tablesaw.
Benchtop drill press, orbital sander/beltsander combo, and compound saw, and a small 1" beltsander.  Pics of the setup are in my buildalong.  Nothing fancy, but they get the job done.

Don't forget a good set of files, rasps, and an assortment of sand paper.
Title: Re: Tools
Post by: Lonesome Wind on October 17, 2008, 01:01:00 AM
Floor model bandsaw, belt sander, drum grinder & drill press. Bench top spindle sander.
Tools are one place, like optics, where you want the best you can afford. I bought one large floor model a year till I had what I needed.
Don't forget A good dust collector, a must if you're doing fiberglass.