Introduction
The Forrest Woodworker 1 and 2 are both popular routers designed to cut decorative edges within wooden surfaces with precision. The Forrest Woodworker 1 is a dedicated routing tool that offers reliable accuracy and an adjustable depth. It also provides users with several base options, such as drywall, masonry and countersink cutting bottoms. On the other hand, the Forrest Woodworker 2 is a multi-use router which can work on multiple surfaces with both planned and plunge cuts. It comes with quick change drags, allowing you to easily switch between straight and bore/groove functions without changing the bit itself.
In terms of pricing and availability, the prices for these two models vary greatly depending on the features offered by each of them and their condition. The Forrest Woodworker 1 is generally considered cheaper and easier to find than its counterpart due to its age (released in 1983) but might not offer all the bells and whistles of the newest model. The Forrest Woodworker 2, being much more practical due to its additional features, is usually slightly more expensive but can be found at most hardware stores or online retailers for reasonable prices compared to similar products available in today’s market.
A Closer Look
Forrest Woodworker 1 and 2 offer slightly different features for the professional woodworker. Each saw has its own unique advantages, so it is important to consider them carefully prior to purchase.
Forrest Woodwork 1 includes an impressive 8000 RPM motor that allows users to create smooth cutting action with minimal vibration. It also comes equipped with a powerful 5hp motor that is perfect for heavy duty jobs and can last for years without needing maintenance or repair. The main table of the Forrest Woodworker 1 is made from cast iron, making it incredibly sturdy and durable. This saw also features adjustable bevel scale markings and provides greater accuracy when creating angled cuts.
The Forrest Woodworker 2 has a powerful 4hp motor, which is still sufficient for heavy-duty work but not quite as strong as its predecessor’s motor. It also includes a stainless steel adjustable plunge mechanism that allows users greater control over their cuts. This saw also boasts a precision ground aluminum rise and fall support arms for maximum stability of your woodworking projects. Finally, the Forrest Woodworker 2 includes an oscillating feature which allows varying amounts of cutting pressure on specific dimensions depending on the size of the cut being made. Overall, it is clear there are some key differences between these two models designed by Forrest to help customers make the best purchasing decision.
Pros and Cons of Forrest Woodworker 1
Pros of Forrest Woodworker 1:
-This model is designed and crafted to be extremely durable, using a heavy gauge steel body that resists wear and tear.
-The base plate has a 3HP motor that can spin the 10” blade and dado set at up to 5000 RPM, allowing for professional-level strength and results.
-A built-in dust collection port helps you keep your workspace clean by quickly collecting chips, eliminating most of the mess that would traditionally come from sawing wood.
-The 15” depth allows for accurate cutting of thicker stock material such as boards, planks, and long board legs.
-Easy to operate – There are no complicated setup steps needed with this machine; simply install the blade then press the “start” button — it’s that simple!
Cons of Forrest Woodworker 1:
-The price tag on this machine can be quite expensive compared to other models in its class.
-The table size on this particular model is only 14” x 24”, which limits its ability to handle larger projects or multiple pieces side by side.
-While a dust collection port is included, the socket diameter is not standard so additional parts may need to be purchased for it to fit your shop vac or dust collector.
– There is no laser guide feature included which could affect accuracy on some projects.
A Closer Look
Forrest Woodworker 2 is a high-performance table saw built for both homeowners and professionals. It packs many features that you wouldn’t expect to find in its price range. Here are some of the major differences between Forrest Woodworker 1 and 2:
Motor: Both saws use a powerful 15 amp motor, but the Forrest Woodworker 2 adds an extra five amps of power, allowing it to handle larger materials with ease. It also has a sophisticated overload protection system built-in that monitors the torque delivered to your blades and stops operation if the load is too heavy or inappropriate.
Blade Guard System: The Forrest Woodworker 2 features a full cast iron enclosure that guards against dust and other debris when working with wood. The steel hood is designed for excellent dust collection by incorporating four intake ducts to collect airborne wood chips so there is less mess in your shop or workspace. An adjustable blade guard allows for quieter operation and better visibility when cutting accurate lines.
Table Extension System: One of the most unique features of the Forrest Woodworker 2 is its telescopic table extensions which provide stability, accuracy, and additional support for large projects. This can be raised from either side of the saw to a width of up to 35” so you don’t have to worry about pushing big pieces into place each time you start cutting them down. The sliding action also helps improve safety by keeping hands further away from moving parts as they are being handled during setup or removal. Additionally, this feature can be used in combination with its miter gauge attachment (sold separately).
Fence System: As an improvement over previous versions, we’ve incorporated a stronger fence system into our new design; with improved ventilation slots to reduce air turbulence while cutting large pieces of material that quickly clog standard enclosed track fences. This gives you precise cuts without worrying about unpredictable shifts throughout your work piece while drilling those long dadoes or deep rabbets. Its one touch locking systems makes adjusting and setting fence distances easy while ensuring precise accuracy when making repeatable cuts every time!
Pros and Cons of Forrest Woodworker 2
Pros:
1. The Forrest Woodworker 2 is an upgrade to the original model, meaning it is more efficient. The enhanced performance offers a rapid cutting speed, improved accuracy, and better isolation of vibration. This allows for smooth and accurate cuts that are significantly easier to achieve with this model.
2. The Forrest Woodworker 2 is equipped with several advanced features, such as an additional fence system that provides extra support along the full length of the blade and a one-piece arbor hood, which also helps reduce vibrations while cutting.
3. With its precision milled aluminum tables and an adjustable solid steel trunnion base, all working at maximum efficiency, the vast range of tasks possible on this saw makes it attractive to even the most experienced woodworkers who want control over their projects.
4. The Forrest Woodworker 2 has the capacity for add-on accessories and upgrades such as Dado blades, shallow throat capacity kits, super-fast router bits, and other aftermarket items that can be used to increase versatility when manufacturing various projects.
Cons:
1. Even though it comes with the latest technology and features aimed at making your efforts effortless, the cost of investing in upgrading from the original model may be prohibitively high for some woodworkers just starting out or who do not know how much they will use these options in a productive manner – i.e., you might find yourself shelling out for something that could prove unnecessary if you don’t make perfect use of them soon enough.
2. Despite being highly efficient and capable for completing numerous and complex jobs accurately, due to its size it is simply not suitable for small scale work or easy storage away in limited spaces like basements or garages; large working areas are essential when considering investing in this model of saw .
A Side-By-Side Comparison of Forrest Woodworker 1 and 2
Forrest Woodworker is a line of table saws that have been popular amongst hobbyists and professionals alike. While the first version, Forrest Woodworker 1, was incredibly successful in terms of stability and performance, more recent models like the Forrest Woodworker 2 feature some enhancements that we will now discuss.
In terms of power output, the Forest Woodworker 1 features a 2.25HP motor while the second model comes with a powerful 3 HP motor. This upgrade makes the Forrest Woodworker 2 ideal for heavier-duty woodworking where precision and accuracy are essential – giving it up to 25% more cutting power than its earlier counterpart.
The Forrest Woodworker 1 has two safety features: an emergency stop button for emergencies and a magnetic switch to prevent accidental starts; however, the Forrest Woodworker 2 steps it up even further by also including cloud monitoring- making it one of the safest saws available on the market today. In addition, it includes additional protections against electric shock as well as enhanced dust management systems – perfect for professional workshops.
Another major difference between these two models lies in their weight and design – newer models have pivoting fences which serve both as more reliable but also more space efficient -allowing users to work on cramped areas without any drawbacks in terms of accuracy or precision. Furthermore, lightweight components means much easier maneuverability without losing any of its stability – perfect when transport is a must!
When it comes to pricing, reviews show that while there isn’t much of a difference between them (approximately 7-8%), users should expect to pay slightly more for enhanced features like cloud monitoring with an overall edge going towards Forrest Woodwork 2 due to added functionality provided by benefits such as better dust management and improved safety features thanks to its pivot fence system.
Relevant Case Studies
The Forrest Woodworker 1 and 2 are two popular models of saws used by woodworking professionals. To determine which model is the best for a specific application, it is important to consider user feedback and case studies. Here are some examples of how people have successfully used either model:
Forrest Woodworker 1:
• A cabinet maker was able to accurately make precision cuts on both thick and thin materials when using the Forrest Woodworker 1. The adjustable blade guard made it easy to make angle cuts with ease.
• A furniture maker was able to cut detailed designs into their custom furniture with precision using the Forrest Woodworker 1. It allowed them to achieve their desired look without sanding or other tedious efforts.
Forrest Woodworker 2:
• An artist used the Forrest Woodworker 2 for making intricate sculptures out of wood. It provided reliable results with maximum control that allowed for intricate patterns and sculpting with ease.
• A mandolin maker was able to make tight, precise cuts quickly and easily when using the Forrest Woodworker 2. The adjustable blade guard helped them make multiple cuts quickly in order to get the perfect shape required for such instruments.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice of which Forrest Woodworker model is best for you depends on your individual preferences and needs. Model 1 contains more advanced features such as proximity sensing technology and dust collection capabilities, while Model 2 provides a more traditional experience with its handcrafted design.
If you are looking for a traditional woodworking experience without lots of bells and whistles or advanced technologies, then Model 2 may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking to take your woodworking skills to the next level with advanced technologies included then Forrest Woodworker 1 might be a better fit.
The case studies should also be taken into consideration when considering which model would work better for you. If time and accuracy are primary concerns then Model 1 could significantly increase your efficiency and precision due to its cutting-edge features. However, if craftsmanship and customizing projects is important to you then Model 2 might be preferable due to its handmade design.
It is important to take into account all the features of each Forrest Woodworker model in order determine which one is right for your individual woodworking needs. Consider both models’ strengths and weaknesses before making a final decision.
Hi everyone! I’m a woodworker and blogger, and this is my woodworking blog. In my blog, I share tips and tricks for woodworkers of all skill levels, as well as project ideas that you can try yourself.
