Heres the deal. I have a target tilematic wet saw that I've had since 2000. Love the thing, and it still cuts square, and runs great. I just had two issues with it. It isn't made to cut anything bigger than maybe a 16X16, and I just got tired of carrying that beast. I do a lot of work in the city, and sometimes need to carry it up three flights of steps, etc.
So the beginning of the year I picked up this rigid saw, because it will make 36 inch rips, and it folds into a cart for easy transport. While that is convenient I've had a ton of issues with it. Parts breaking, cutting out of square, etc . So now I think I'm gonna dump this thing and pick up something new.
I'd like something lightweight that can still cut a large format tile when necessary. What are you guys using?
As soon as it released, the new 7 inch Lackmond beast will rip 24's and is super lightweight. The 10 will rip 39s.
It should be out soon, if not allready.
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Cain Curtis
A Tile Experience
Certified Tile Installer #362
Serving the metro Atlanta area
I definitely don't want a rail saw. I have to take this into apartment complexes, and house with me. think they would be harder to move around than they are worth.
The lackmond beast is the same design as my rigid saw. Its actually called the beast also. So I'd be hesitant to purchase that with all the problems I'v had with this one.
Hi Dennis, I still have several Target saws and an old Felker that's about 30 years old. They are solid like you said. A few years ago I did a job for a homeowner that was thinking about tiling his own shower but changed his mind. I bought his DeWalt from him and I have been fairly happy with it. It still cuts square and the tray is still tight. The bearings need to be changed, it makes a lot of noise. I do like being able to tilt the blade for angle cuts. It isn't much lighter than the Target though, maybe a little. I'd buy another DeWalt if I needed another saw.
As far as climbing stairs, I work on the second floor houses all the time but in Condos and apartments, if they don't have an elevator, I'll have to pass on the job. My old knees can't handle it anymore. I did buy a cart when we do have to take the saw in the elevator and to an up stairs balcony. The cart really helps.
Hey Davy. Yea a buddy of mine has the dewalt, and I think it is a nice saw, but like you said it isn't much lighter.
I do a lot of work in the city in 3 and 4 story row homes that have been converted to condos. one condo per floor. There is never an elevator in these homes, so if your on the 4th floor you either walk down to make every cut, or carry the saw up there. I mean I make as many cuts as possible with my cutter, and grinder, but still you need a saw for a lot of jobs.
Our new 7" saw comes out next week (ships to distributors). It's 48lbs, has a 13 amp motor, can diagonal cut an 18" and rip cut a 24" tile. For something you're lugging around in apartments, i think it may fit your needs perfectly.
PEARL PA7 all the way philly! Love this saw. Maybe a bit small but super light, super accurate, super tough(stainless water tray is nice), good on power........list goes on. @ $450 or so without stand online. Stand will set ya back another $150 . I have been very happy with this saw. Check out Contractors Direct.
. I have been very happy with this saw. Check out Contractors Direct.
