Dado set again

[Dale Rodabaugh]

What is the difference between the Freud 208 and 508 dado set?

[Bill Lewis]

Um, 300, if my math is right

Actuallly this is a really good question. I'd like to know too. Is it really worth the extra $100 for the 508? How about the 308?

[Kevin Post]

When I was shopping, I was told the quality of the cut is better with the 508 than with the 308. Most of the dados I cut are in plywood and the 508 does a good job without tearing up the wood. I don't have a 308 so I can't tell you if this is true.

Visually, the design of the chippers on the 308 and 508 are different. The 508 has four sets of cutters on each chipper while the 308 has two sets. I suspect this affects the quality of the cut. In addition, one of the chippers that comes with the 508 is 3/32" to make it easier to cut dadoes for plywood. The 508 also comes standard with a shim set which must be purchased seperately for the 308.

-Kevin

[Dave Falkenstein]

In addition to what Kevin said, the 508 and 308 have 24 tooth outside blades, and the 208 has 12 tooth blades. I use a 508, and get great results in all woods, including plywood. For a complete description see:

http://www.freudtools.com/woodworker.../Dadoes_1.html

[Kevin Post]

Duh! I misread the original post. I thought Dale was asking about the 308 vs. the 508.

[Bill Lewis]

Kevin, sorry, I brought up the 308, but what you included is certainly good information and right on with the overall discussion.

The 308 price point seems to be somewhere between the 208 and the 508 at about $150

So has anyone used the 208? I know that Lowe's sells the 208 set for about $95.

[Dale Rodabaugh]

THX for all the info,looks to me like the 508 has 24 teeth,and the 208 has 10 teeth.Also the 508 can be adjusted by 1/32 inch increments versus 1/16 for the 208.I have been watching Ebay and the 508s are going for just about new price.$160 plus shipping,then you never know for sure what you are getting til it arrives.Was over at Home Depot and they had the 208 for $94.00,Think I will just wait til my next trip to Hartville Tool and buy the 508.THX again. Dale