Radial Arm Saw?

[JohnnyDrama]

I was offered an older model radial arm saw last night for $25.00. It's kind of big, and I don't really have room for it, it's not as useful as a table saw would be (which I don't have), but would come in handy for a couple of upcoming projects. I'll probably take the guy up on the offer just because I can't stand to see such a tool go to goodwill. Anyway, does anybody out there have experience with such a tool? I haven't used one but it looks like fun. Thoughts?

[rondog]

I wish I could have nabbed my dad's Craftsman radial arm saw! That was one handy mother, I loved that thing.

[Erni]

No experiance but sounds fun. Use it and then post it here to pass on to the next needy soul.

[Irving]

MUCH easier to make perfectly square cuts. Is it just on a straight arm, or can you rotate the blade at all? If it does miter cuts, and especially compound miter cuts, grab it!

[BladesNBarrels]

First power saw was the early Craftsman Radial Arm Saw.
Did everything I asked, but had to be a little creative in making some cuts.
Built a free-standing garage and cabinetry.
Have fun and post some pictures!

[ray1970]

My grandfather had a radial arm saw that we used for everything. Space or not, it would be hard to turn one down for $25.

[Great-Kazoo]

TimK & Johnny Ego are the guys to ask when it comes to wood working tools. Personally, for $25 it's a win win for you, i understand not having the space is a negative. But.....after the first project you'll be happy.

[laportecharlie]

Lots of people have been hurt using radial arm saws. You have to be very careful to not have your hand holding the material in line with the path of the blade. The blade runs backward relative to a table saw and can jump back and bite you. For $25.00 you should grab it. There are dozens of them on Craig's list for a lot more but they never sell. Just take up too much room if set up with useful tables both ways.

[BushMasterBoy]

I have a Craftsman belt run table saw. It is the cast steel top type. I don't even think you can buy one anymore from Craftsman. Last time I looked they had granite tops in Sears. Sounds like a deal!

[buffalobo]

Depending on model, it can do pretty much anything a table saw can do and more. For $25 you can't really lose.

I have 3 in my shop, 2 10" Craftsman and a 14" Dewalt.