General Tablesaws

[Tom Peterson]

anyone an owner or know an owner of a General tablesaw. I am looking at a Model #50-260 (left tilt, 3Hp Bies, Fence) barely used. Wood Magazine rated a similar model as good. As always your thoughts are appreciated.

[John Miliunas]

Tom, I don't own one, nor do I personally know of anyone who does. BUT, FWIW, any posting I've ever seen regarding General tablesaws (or just about anything else, for that matter!), have always been very positive. I just very recently purchased the heavier duty Bridgewood, left-tilt saw and the sales dude at Wilke was very descript about the Bridgewood being built as HD as the General & Powermatic. From what I understand, those three are indeed heavier duty than their Delta, Jet or Grizz counterparts. If I were in your shoes and the price was right on a clean piece of equipment, I'd jump on it! I looked long and hard for a used cabinet saw (left-tilt) around here, with no luck! I don't think you'd go wrong with a General! Just MHO, of course and the usual disclaimers apply!

[Lee Schierer]

Jim Shaver has one and likes it. I'm sure if you sent him an email or PM he would let you know his thoughts.

[CPeter James]

I don't own one, but love to if I could fine one at a good price. The top of the heap, especially if it is left tilt. I have seen them being used in other shops and they are NICE. I have looked them over and very well build and fit and finish was superior. In short, I want one.

CPeter

[Tom Sontag]

I have the cabinet saw and am very pleased with every aspect except dust collection. I still need to shovel dust from inside the cabinet since the obvious place to hook up the hose to the cabinet is mid-level and there is no floor to steer the dust that way. But I suppose dust inside a cabinet is at least a form of DC... General is a quality name.

[scott spencer]

Hi Tom - The 260 is a General International saw made in Taiwan as opposed to a General 350/650 which is made in Canada. They sell new for $1200-$1300. Same General T-fence system as the 350 though, and a pretty nice cast iron stock miter gauge with ball bearings on the bar. I've read that the GI cabinet saws are made in the same plant as the Jet, but I'm not certain. I'm impressed with the GI contractor saw, and have no doubt that the 260 is a very good machine. If the price and condition are right, it should make a nice addition to your shop.

You might find more owners and comments @ Canadianwoodworking.com. Good luck!

[Jim Shaver, Oakville Ont]

Hi,

I have owned the 350 now for 6 years, a real pleasure to use. My good fried Bill MacDonald owns the 260 and LOVES it...what can I say, it's a great saw left or right tilt!

take care,
Jim