I’m a little hesitant about even posting this as I don’t want it to be taken in the wrong way but after 3 years of serious consideration and research I’ve decided to take the plunge into opening a professional custom furniture shop. That’s not why I'm hesitant; I just don’t want anyone to think I’m just dreaming and wasting everyone’s time or that I’m attempting to show off or bragging in any way. I can assure you I’m as serious as can be and am only asking for opinions because I’m going to be spending a fair amount of money.
I have put a great deal of thought and research into the following list of equipment and would like any input or suggestions.
That pretty much covers the new equipment list other than a 24” dovetail jig and a drill press. I have various other hand and power tools, clamps, saw blades, and so on. The only other major purchase is going to be a 4 X 8 ShopBott. Just as soon as I secure a space I will be placing my orders which should be in the next 30 days if all goes as planned.
- Saw Stop 5 HP table saw (the only saw I will consider after my little accident a few years ago)
- Grizzly 3 HP Oscillating edge sander. 6” x 108” belt. # GO564
- Grizzly 3 HP 19” Extreme bandsaw # GO514X2
- Grizzly 2 HP cyclone dust collector #GO440
- Grizzly Oscillating spindle sander #GO1071
- Grizzly 20” 5 HP Spiral cutterhead planer #GO1033X
- Grizzly 37” 10 HP Drum sander #GO449
- Grizzly3 HP Shaper #G1026
- Grizzly 1 HP Power feeder #G4181
- Grizzly 12” Jointer with spiral cutterhead #GO609X
- Jet 1642 Wood lathe and bed extension
- Powermatic 719 Tilt table mortiser and stand
- Fuji 4 Stage HVLP spray system
- Exaktor EX 60 sliding table
- Bosch 6.4 amp Barrel grip jig saw
- 2 Triton routers (one for a router table)
- Bosch ½ sheet sander
Obviously the majority of my list is Grizzly. I looked hard at Delta, Powermatic, Jet, Steel City, and General and seriously considered machines from each manufacturer. But after reading the reviews and comparing each piece of equipment and specifications, I’ve determined Grizzly offers the most bang for the buck. I’m going with the Powermatic mortiser because it has the longest stroke of any comparable machine and the Jet lathe because of the reviews. Fortunately the fine Sawmill Creek members in the turning section steered me toward the Jet rather than the Grizzly (thanks again guys!). The ShopBott is for cutting plywood into intricate shapes and adding carvings to certain pieces. Again, I’m just looking for a few opinions before I write the big checks.
Thanks
Terry