Are you tired of struggling with unpredictable cuts and tearing out when working with wood? The quest for precision cutting is a common challenge many woodworkers face.
A track saw can be a game-changer, offering clean cuts, safe ripping, and crosscutting of sheet goods, as well as long angled cuts with minimal space.
The Festool TS55 is renowned for its precision and versatility, making it a valuable tool for professionals and serious DIYers alike.
Key Takeaways
- Understand the evolution of the TS55 series and its significant improvements.
- Explore the complete package contents and key features of the Festool TS55.
- Discover the real-world performance and value of this premium tool.
- Compare different models within the TS55 family to choose the right option.
- Learn why the Festool TS55 is considered one of the most precise and reliable track saws.
The Evolution of Festool Track Saws
Over the years, you have seen Festool continually improve its track saw design, enhancing precision and usability. The journey of Festool’s track saw system began in 1962 with the introduction of their first guide rails, designed to work with traditional portable circular saws to improve cutting accuracy.
From Festo to Festool: A Brief History
The first generation of Festool guide rails were first brought to market in 1962. The original guide rail was later replaced by a new aluminium version in 1980, redesigned to accompany the very first ‘Festo’ branded plunge saws – the AXF45 and AXF55. This marked a significant advancement in track saw technology.
The TS55 Series Development
The early Festo plunge saws evolved throughout the 1980s, from the AXF series to the AT55E and then the ATF55E, establishing the design language that continues in current models. The introduction of the TS55 plunge-cut saw in 2003 was a turning point, leading to widespread adoption of track saw systems across the construction industry. Each iteration of the TS55 series has refined the tool’s precision, usability, and versatility.
You can appreciate how Festool’s commitment to innovation has cemented its reputation for excellence in track saw design. As you explore the history and development of Festool track saws, it becomes clear that the company’s dedication to precision and usability has driven its success.
Unboxing the Festool TS55: What’s in the Package
Unboxing the TS55 reveals a meticulously organised package, complete with everything needed for effective track saw operation. The Festool TS55 track saw is designed to provide a comprehensive cutting solution, and the packaging reflects this commitment to quality.
Standard Accessories and Systainer Storage
The standard package includes the track saw, a blade, and a guide rail, all neatly stored in a Systainer for convenience and portability. The Systainer storage system is a hallmark of Festool’s design, allowing you to transport your tools and accessories safely to and from the jobsite.
Optional Accessories Worth Considering
You can enhance your TS55 track saw experience with optional accessories, such as additional rails in various lengths (800mm, 1900mm, 2700mm, and 3100mm), rail connectors, and specialised blades for cutting different materials. Festool’s range of guide rail clamps and dust collection accessories further customise your setup, ensuring precise cuts and a cleaner workspace.
With the TS55, you’re not just buying a track saw; you’re investing in a versatile cutting system that can be tailored to your specific needs, supported by a comprehensive ecosystem of accessories and a reputation for quality reflected in numerous positive reviews.
Key Features of the Festool TS55 Track Saw
The Festool TS55 track saw is renowned for its advanced features that enhance precision cutting. This track saw is designed to provide users with a versatile and efficient cutting experience.
Precision Cutting System and Guide Rail
The Festool TS55 features a precision cutting system that works seamlessly with its guide rail, ensuring accurate cuts every time. The guide rail is designed to provide a stable platform for the saw, allowing for smooth and precise cuts.
Plunge Mechanism and Depth Adjustment
The TS55’s plunge mechanism enables users to make precise plunge cuts with ease. The depth adjustment feature allows for accurate control over the cut depth, making it ideal for various applications.
Dust Collection Efficiency
The Festool TS55 track saw is equipped with an efficient dust collection system, which helps maintain a clean workspace and reduces the risk of inhaling dust particles. This feature is particularly useful for professionals who work with wood and other materials that generate dust.
Bevel Cutting Capabilities (-1° to 47°)
The TS55 REQ offers a range of bevel cutting capabilities, from -1° to +47°, with positive stops at 0° and 45°. The bevel cutting range extends from -1° to 47°, providing versatility that exceeds most competing track saws and many table saws.
- The negative angle capability (-1°) is particularly useful for creating slightly undercut edges that ensure tight joints when assembling panels or cabinetry.
- Positive stops at 0° and 45° allow for quick setting of the most commonly used angles, while the fine adjustment mechanism enables precise setting of any angle within the tool’s range.
- The bevel scale is clearly marked and easy to read, with a locking mechanism that firmly secures the chosen angle throughout the cut.
- Even when cutting at extreme angles, the saw maintains its stability on the track and continues to produce clean, splinter-free cuts with minimal effort.
Overall, the Festool TS55 track saw is a powerful tool that offers a range of features to enhance precision cutting. Its advanced features make it an ideal choice for professionals and serious DIYers.
Performance Review: Festool TS55 Track Saw in Action
The Festool TS55 is a powerhouse in the world of track saws, offering unparalleled cutting precision. When evaluating its performance, several key aspects stand out, including its cutting quality, power and speed settings, and handling ergonomics.
Cutting Quality and Precision
The Festool TS55 track saw is renowned for its exceptional cutting quality. The precision cutting system and guide rail work in tandem to provide accurate cuts, making it an indispensable tool for professionals. The saw’s ability to make precise cuts is further enhanced by its plunge mechanism, allowing for smooth and controlled cuts.
The transparent sliding window on the TS55 ensures that you have a clear view of the cutting line, improving accuracy and enabling precise alignment with layout marks on the workpiece. This feature is particularly useful when working on intricate projects where precision is paramount.
Power and Speed Settings
The Festool TS55 is equipped with a robust motor that provides consistent power, even during demanding tasks. The saw’s design allows for efficient dust collection, keeping the work area clean and improving visibility. While the TS55 is a saw that excels in many areas, its power and speed settings are optimized for a variety of cutting tasks, making it versatile for different applications.
Handling and Ergonomics
The ergonomic design of the TS55 places all controls within easy reach, ensuring intuitive operation without awkward hand positions. The guide rail system, combined with the saw’s balanced weight, makes it comfortable to use for extended periods. At approximately 4.5 kg (9.92 lbs), the saw strikes an excellent balance between stability during cutting and manageable weight, reducing fatigue during prolonged use.
The flush housing design of the TS55 REQ allows for cuts as close as 12mm from adjacent walls or other vertical surfaces, a significant improvement over earlier models and many competing saws. This feature, along with the ergonomic handle design, makes the tool comfortable to use in both plunge cutting and traditional sawing operations, with excellent control during both.
Comparing Models: TS 55 vs TS 55 R vs TS 55 F
When considering the Festool TS55, understanding the differences between models is crucial for making an informed purchase decision. The TS55 series has undergone significant developments, resulting in distinct models tailored to various user requirements.
Design Improvements Over Time
Festool has consistently refined the TS55 design, enhancing its performance and user experience. The latest models incorporate advancements that improve cutting precision and efficiency.
The evolution of the TS55 series is marked by enhancements in its cutting system, ergonomics, and dust collection capabilities, making it a versatile tool for professionals and hobbyists alike.
The New 1.8mm Kerf Blade Technology
The introduction of the 1.8mm kerf blade with the TS55 F represents a significant technological leap. This thinner blade reduces material removal by approximately 18%, resulting in faster cutting speeds and reduced motor strain.
Festool’s engineering ensures that despite the thinner profile, the blade maintains exceptional rigidity and cutting precision. Users can expect longer blade life due to reduced friction, translating to more cuts between blade changes.
You can explore the latest Festool 160mm thin kerf saw blades designed for optimal performance with the TS55 F model.
Key benefits of the 1.8mm kerf blade technology include:
- Approximately 18% less material removed during cutting, enhancing cutting speed and reducing motor strain.
- Exceptional rigidity and cutting precision maintained despite the thinner blade profile.
- Significantly longer blade life due to reduced friction.
- Not backward compatible with older TS55 models due to differences in blade mounting and riving knife thickness.
Corded vs Cordless: Is the TSC 55 K Worth the Investment?
The Festool TSC55 K cordless track saw presents a compelling alternative to traditional corded models, but is it worth the investment? When evaluating the TSC55 K, two key aspects to consider are its battery performance and runtime, as well as its innovative anti-kickback technology.
Battery Performance and Runtime
The TSC55 K’s cordless design offers greater flexibility and convenience on site, with its 18V battery providing a reliable power source. You can expect a decent runtime from the battery, although this may vary depending on the specific tasks and materials you are working with.
Anti-Kickback Technology
The standout feature exclusive to the cordless TSC55 K model is its innovative anti-kickback technology, a significant advancement in track saw safety. This intelligent system uses electronic sensors to detect sudden resistance and backward movement characteristic of kickback, immediately stopping the blade before dangerous backward movement can occur.
- Unlike the passive safety of a riving knife (which both models include), this active system provides an additional layer of protection, particularly valuable when making plunge cuts in dense or knotty wood.
- The anti-kickback feature can be temporarily disabled for special cutting situations where false triggering might occur, giving you flexibility while maintaining safety as the default.
This technology, combined with the tool’s other safety features, makes the TSC55 K particularly suitable for less experienced users or educational settings where enhanced safety measures are prioritised.
Conclusion: Is the Festool TS55 Track Saw Worth the Price?
The Festool TS55 represents the pinnacle of track saw technology, offering exceptional precision and quality in every cut.
While it comes with a significant investment, the long-term benefits and durable construction make it a valuable tool for professionals. The comprehensive system, including compatible accessories and excellent dust collection, justifies the premium price. Whether you opt for the corded TS55 F or cordless TSC55 K, you’ll be investing in a top-tier track saw that delivers outstanding results.
