DeWalt Radial Arm Saw

[efmaron]

I do not have any more or less trouble setting up my RAS than I do with my SS or any other equipment in the shop.

[reible]

Hi,

My brother has one that was fine for a good long time then after a move something happened. It was always a bit of pain to set up but at least once you had it right it would be good for a long time. After the move it just went down hill, you could adjust it and before you finished the day it was messed up again. He still has it but it is a workbench/storage area. That maybe just as well since it is one the "recalled" one that you send in the arm and they send you the check....

When I worked as a carpenters helper we took a RAS to the job site. I forget the brand but it seemed to stand up to the riggers of that life. I remember them sticking me with fun jobs like ripping up a bunch of stock... I'd be head to toe sawdust... ah the good old days.

I guess if I had the space and could find the right one I'd buy it. They certainly do something very well and would be a good addition to a primarily shopsmith shop.

How many companies even offer these now a days? I'm guessing most companies dropped them???

Ed


John,

The RAS discussion brings back some interesting memories. My first power saw was a 1970 Craftsman RAS. For the first three years my favorite saw. I built some neat bookcases with it. Then we moved. Somehow it became mal adjusted. I tried repeatedly to get it balanced and finally traded it for a table saw. About five years ago I was enticed by a sears close out sale to get a new one with all the latest bells and whistles. I never once managed to get it balanced properly. It went out the door the weekend prior to my shiny new 520 being delivered. Oh how I love my 520. I wish you the best of luck with the RAS. I still have fond memories of my first one. fjimp

[pinkiewerewolf]

Good question on who still builds them. I did see a Shopsmith RAS in the San Fran area Craigslist... I wish it were closer.

Delta has multiple RAS models, I think Craftsman has one model, The Original Saw has multiple models and bought DeWalt's old patents I believe.
Other than those I'm still learning about these saws and I'll be happy once the RAS function/looks are restored like my Mark V.

I've heard of another RAS company, Maggi? (sp) Ring any bells with anyone?

P.S. Ed, i bet you were as happy as a pig in mud when you were covered in the sawdust that RAS threw on you. ;)

[a1gutterman]

I do knot recall the brand, but my grandfather had a RAS that came mounted on a two wheel trailer. You could tow it to the job site behind your truck and use it right on the trailer.

[Ed in Tampa]

I do knot recall the brand, but my grandfather had a RAS that came mounted on a two wheel trailer. You could tow it to the job site behind your truck and use it right on the trailer.

Tim
Many RAS went to work that way. I can remember seeing them from time to time in the late 50's-60's.
I think most RAS are now built for commercial applications and I think CNC machines and other tools are quickly replacing them.

[heartwood]

Pinkie, not sure if anyone has sent this www. But this site is a good source of information about old tools. May give you information you can’t find and you can’t talk to the owners for more information. Good luck.

http://www.owwm.com