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Just wanted to jump in and say that I too have the CU300 classic (new version) and I *love* it. It's an absolutely incredible machine.
I have the 8.5' slider, and I am working in a 2 car garage. I have it oriented so the back of the machine faces the garage door. I have the outrigger set about 2 feet back from the front of the slide so that I don't really need to open the garage door for full swing unless I'm ripping something 7'+. I then move the outrigger back to the front of the slide and open the door.
I agree with Erik in that I wouldn't want a smaller slider. As long as you orient the machine to use the space outside your garage for full slide, it's really a non-issue. Having said that, I know since I live in NC, its much easier for me to say 'just open the garage door' than for some of you guys that live in colder areas. :)
The ONLY thing I wish I had at this point is a 16" j/p - so maybe one day down the line I'll have a 410. I don't ever see myself moving to a different company. This thing is built like a tank, simple to work on, is incredibly accurate and that accuracy is reproducible. I take the outrigger off regularly, and every time I put it back on, the fence stays dead square. It is by far the best tool I've ever owned.
Also, just like Jim has mentioned in the past, I never edge joint anymore. There is no need. Just straight line everything.
I also only very rarely use the right side of the blade. I now rip exclusively using the slider, and I get much better results.
I don't know if the Nick has chosen yet, but I would highly recommend the CU300.
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I have an old Minimax Euroshop and love it. I cut sheet stock with a skill saw then run it through the Minimax for the final trim. I park it under a 4x8 bench in my garage. On top of the bench I have my miter box setup. It's a great machine and the bench storage protects it.
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