Anyone have this Dado set?

[Sachbvn]

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0000223O8/ref=s9sims_c6_img1-rfc_p?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-3&pf_rd_r=0E91GFJR6MHEG8HTQFBT&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=320448801&pf_rd_i=507846

It's an $85.00 Freud set. I have really put off getting one - but watching some podcasts on things you can use a dado set for... really makes me want to try one out. I think I would really like cutting tenons with it. I am also long over-due for a box joint making jig. That can come after the dado set though. What do ya'll think for the hobby WW such as myself?

Thanks,
Zac

[rhull]

I think I have the Freud SD508 (got it for like $50 when Woodworker's Warehouse was closing down a few years back). I have to admit I very rarely use it, but when I do use it, it works well for me.

[TDHofstetter]

I miss WWW. That was a good place to get stuff. I don't like Western Tool (their successor) nearly as much.

-- Tim --


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[Sawduster]

I've got the 8" version of that which I've recently rediscovered and begun actually using with the cabinet saw. The issue I had with it before was rough floors, but I found with using Board Buddies the issue goes away.

[shane_s]

I have the 8" version and have had no problems with it. I picked it up at the orange BORG a few years ago. Like someone said I don't use it much but when I need it, I am really glad its there.

[Apozorski]

I also have the 8" set. Rarely gets used, i think its been resharpened once already. Does a wonderful job for what i use it for.

[sibi1972]

Zac,

I have had no luck with the dado set I have. Maybe it's me, or my saw or the dado set.

Either way though, I've been able to get really good results doing those types of cuts on my router table. It helps that my table is on the large side, has a miter slot and a slot on the fence for a feather board.

Lots of ways to do things with this hobby and a 1/2" dado bit for 3/4" cuts is under $20, makes perfectly flat bottomed cuts and does double duty in a hand held router as well.

Just an option.

"Red"

[Sachbvn]

...and an option I have strongly considered. If I had a better table set up as far as the miter guage etc... I would probably try tenons on that. I could still technically do tenons on the regular saw blade - just takes more time and care. Agreed though - many ways to do the same thing, thats whats great about WW.

Zac

[Sawduster]

Though some folks do use a dado stack for tenons, I wouldn't get one for just that. A simple jig that rides the fence providing support to keep most tenoned pieces upright works quite well for making the cheek cuts except on longer work pieces which can be nibbled with a regular blade or done on the router table.

Dado sets are worth going to the trouble of installing for long grooves on the rip fence or for doing a bunch of dados with the the miter gauge or a sled. Otherwise it is easier for me to set up the router table.

[ScottD]

I have the 8" version. I use it often and it does an acceptable job for most applications. I would be hesitant to use it on expensive wood or plywood due to splintering. I got my dad the Freud box joint cutter set for his birthday and he says it does a great job.


Scott

[Sachbvn]

That was also something I considered - would serve the same purpose as a dado set except less options for size. It would still have the basics covered and is like $20 cheaper.


Zac

[thestruuus]

I have the 8" Freud dado and I use it all the time. I do cut tenons with a jig and a regular blade but use the dado for.. well.. dados..and rabbits I guess. The stacked dado cuts purfectly flat, not like a wobble blade or something. Depends on the power of your saw, the 8" used to dog on my old saw when I got up to 3/4-1", the new delta has no problems at all.