iles@hplabs.UUCP (07/26/85)
I'm very pleased to read the SHOPSMITH interest in this woodworking topic. Making the decision recently to "invest" $2000 in a Shopsmith package, I'm always trying to second guess myself. I worked with a table saw (sears) and router table setup (homebrew) for three years. I found I loved making projects and sawdust and knew that better tools do a craftsman make. (Translated: I could do so much more and better with more toys in the garage) But the missing bandsaw, jointer, drill press, etc would forever lock out my car from its rightful place in the garage if I would buy separate tools. That's impossible. After all, this woodworking urge will be never more than a hobby to me. (Its dreadful trying to make money in terms of a living wage from woodworking) Shopsmith, after some initial learning curve, has a lot of potential to incidental hobby woodworkers. I've done small projects on it since it arrived, and find that the tool is responding more reliably after I learn how to exploit its strengths and/or circumvent its weaknesses. What impresses me is the high quality of the construction. I fully expect to build furniture, cabinets, toys, gifts, etc. in the years that will be filled with sawdust. I urge that current and future woodworkers consider the Mark V. AT least drop by one of the factory outlets or demonstrations always going on in "home and leisure" shows. p.s. Got lots of information from a three day class (costing 1/3 less after buying a Mark V shopsmith) offered at the factory outlets. Gets you really knowledgeable about the care and tricks of the machine quickly. Joe Martinka HP Cupertino
laman@ncr-sd.UUCP (Mike Laman) (08/02/85)
I'm glad someone mentioned the Mark V. I think that someday I'll buy some
woodworking tools so I can make various odd things. I have twice seen a demo
for the Mark V at the Del Mar Fair (near the San Diego area here) and have
been impressed with the machine.
You mentioned the Mark V has strengths and weaknesses. I would greatly (!)
appreciate your (and certainly others on the network!) opinion of its
strengths and weaknesses.
I think this may be enough of general interest to the group to post your
reply. Maybe we can get a other owners talking about it and comparing
it to other things they have used.
As for myself, I (we!) recently bought a house. I enjoyed shop class in
school (too many years ago). I like working with my hands. After our
children get old enough (They are 2 1/2, 1, and due any day) get old enough
where I (and my wife) start getting time for "myself", I thought I might
get some tools to help make odd things. (Yes, I would definitely take
some type of refresher course... Safty is VERY important to me.) Now you have
a vague idea of my angle.
Thanks in advance for all comments.
Mike Laman
UUCP: {ucbvax,philabs,sdcsla}!sdcsvax!ncr-sd!laman
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