SAWSTOP Table Saw Technology
SAWSTOP Technology Is Genius
When it comes to technology, the SawStop is genius. Having the ability to sense flesh and literally stop in an instant is pretty awesome. With that out of the way, it is my opinion that the CPSC (Consumer Public Safety Commission) does NOT need to mandate this technology into every table saw that is made. Here is a few reasons why.
Cost:
- Average range in pricing without the flesh sensing technology is $99 – $600
- Estimated additional cost for enhanced brake technology – $100 to $150
- Estimated additional cost for re-design and additional components – $100 – $150
- Actual mark up on final overall cost will depend on the individual company’s pricing policy
- Average range in pricing with the flesh sensing technology at minimum will be $400 – $900
With the above mentioned increase of $300 at minimum this will almost eliminate the affordability of the table saw. There will always be the custom cabinet maker, large scale remodelers, and general contractors that will have the need to purchase this expensive pieces of equipment, but majority of us will not be able to afford them.
Using the wrong tool:
Due to a drastic increase in price, contractors, handymen and DIY’ers are going to try and find some other tool to use for the cuts they need from portable table saws. Trying to find an alternative tool to use will most definitely increase the risk of serious injury. Using the wrong tool for the job is not only a health risk, it is something that can be avoided.
In Closing:
Do I think there is a place for flesh sensing technology, my answer is yes? Do I think there is a need to mandate this, even shove it down our throats, absolutely no way in hell? If a general contractor, cabinet maker, or DIY’er want this technology, great let them spend upwards to $1,299 for it.
Statistics show that since 2007, the everyday contractor, hobbyist, or Do it Yourself-ers have been getting by with ZERO documented of injuries due to blade contact. Something must be right. When try to fix something that isn’t broken? I personally believe there is room for both tables with flesh sensing technology and without.
Check out the Tool News article on SAWSTOP Jobsite Table Saw.
Click here for a tool news release by Robert Robillard, on SawStop Jobsite Table Saw set to make its appearance March of 2015.