I am seeking experience and opinion from users, or anyone really with information, about the quality of this saw. I am in the process of acquiring one with the goal of using it as a dedicated cross cut station. My primary question is to what extent this saw, made in the 1960s by B&D, resembles its legendary high quality predecessors in the DeWalt line, and to what extent is it more similar to the lower quality saws made for the consumer market after B&D purchased DeWalt. My understanding is it was made during a transition period within the company.
Will it hold settings like the early saws, or drift like the later saws? Will true right angles become something else after many cuts?
Will it really drive a 12 inch blade at its maximum depth of over three inches through hardwood, as it should based on its 3.5 hp rated motor, or is this value "developed" hp and is the larger blade a marketing gimick on a saw that is really only 1.5 hp sustained output?
Any other concerns from users?
I know the proof is in the pudding, which is why I seek the wisdom of the creek to devine that which can otherwise only be gleaned by experience. Even though the price is right I don't need another paper weight.
(There's only one of these listed on the .org site - maybe that tells me something - and my inquiry to the owner bounced.)
Thanks very much for any input.
Dave