The first two requirements I thought of...
...was the fence and stability. Fence being #1. I wouldn't be afraid of the Ridged. Some of those prortables are $$$. Yikes!!:confused:
Howard - what will you use it for?
I have no experience with either - my portable is a cheap older craftsman 8" that has trouble cutting through a 2X4.
The dewalt looks good - I sometimes watch Bruce Johnson on DIY & he has one that seems to handle just about anything. but they are pricey - you could buy a good contractor saw for about the same price - less if you go Grizzley.
If you just need it for occasional use in a remote location - wouldn't one of the cheaper Delta's work? I saw one on Lowes web site for $99 & another model for $179. Then you can buy more tools with the money saved :D . I paid about half the cost of the Dewalt for my 3 year old Jet contractor saw with some shop built accesories included.
How portable do you need it to be?
Just something to think about.
Another vote to look at the Bosch
I, also after much research, bought the Bosch when I was about to rebuild (read completely gut & start over) my kitchen two summers ago.
I have since built a number of furniture projects including some mission-inspired pieces and have no regrets.
The folding stand is much sturdier than the DeWalt and locks both open and closed so you can bolt the saw to the stand, drop it down and away you go.
I would highly recommend you give it a once over before you decide.
Thanks for all the responses/
I have a Delta contractor w/ 52" Xacta fence for my shop. I'm looking for portable for worksite.
The Makita and Bosch caught my eye first, but no one in these parts carry them. After looking again today, I've decided I would choose Ridgid over Dewalt.
Does anyone know if any stores in Houston carry Bosch or Makita in stock?
Re: Thanks for all the responses/
Does anyone know if any stores in Houston carry Bosch or Makita in stock? [/B][/QUOTE]
Have you considered mail order? Such as Tool Crib?