The Festool TS 55 EQ Plunge Cut Saw: On The Job.

Before buying my first Festool tool, I had problems cutting sheet goods onsite. The TS55 solved this, the dust collection and compact storage of the unit was a big bonus. What follows is how I use my TS55, MFT and CT 22/mini.

The main use of the TS55 for me, is cutting sheet goods to size. Shown here I have already cut down a full sheet into smaller, easier to handle pieces. I'm using saw horses and a few 2x4s that I have dominoed together to support the work piece. Some people like to use a piece of rigid foam insulation under the sheet to help with dust collection, it works well.

The weakest link in the system is one's ability to accurately lay out the panels and place the rail, so take your time and do it right.

The TS55 and MFT are an unbeatable combination. I use the MFT to crosscut panels to length. The MFT's guide rail is on a hinge in the back, so the rail flips up to slide the stock in. Then down perfectly square to the fence. This really speeds up the process of cutting your stock.

Here is a short video of the TS55 being used with the MFT.

Cutting doors is something I frequently do with the TS55. If you happen to cut doors 2" or thicker, the TS75 is the tool for the job. Note that I'm using the rail for the LR32 hole drilling system to make this cut.

Another thing I use this saw for is to straight line cut rough stock. Place the rail on the stock so you are cutting off only the amount needed. Then make a slow, steady cut. Festool makes the Panther rip blade for the TS55. The Panther rip blade tends to tear up the rubber edge of the guide rail, this is no big deal. You just have to remove the rubber edge and slide it over then glue it back on. However, if I am only making one or two cuts, I don't bother with the rip blade, the standard blade can do a good job on 4/4 stock.

I rebuild a few porches each year. With the TS55 cutting the flooring to length after in is installed with no saw marks to sand out is great. I've installed several pre finished hardwood floor using the TS55 to cut the ends of the flooring to length. With a vac hooked up it really keeps the mess off the floor. Listed here are only a few of the uses of the TS55, this will give you an idea of what this saw can do. The bottom line, I find it to be a clean, portable, easy to use systen and I can't imagine a better tool for the job.

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