Still no regrets. Recently used it to cut sheets of siding to repair one of my sheds and then to put a straight edge on a piece of 6 quarter walnut. It does everything I need it to do.
I'm here because you commented on my video about the tool, but am pausing at 0:55 to say I fully support your stickers and apparel! Now on with the show... Okay, you've peaked my interest! I'll have to strongly consider this on my table saw / no table saw journey. Thanks Matt!
I have this saw with the Wen track system and have made more cuts than I can count, I’ve had zero issues with the saw and track and don’t know why some don’t like the Wen track. Glad I didn’t go for the Festool or Dewalt, this saw does all I need and is a great value.
I agree it is a great value. I have used it quite a bit in the last couple months and it has performed perfectly. It's good to hear from people who like the Wen track after hearing so many negative comments.
Shucks, the WEN track with the WEN saw is superior because it enables the use the of the Track Lock that engages the track. The only downside to the WEN tracks are they are 50" instead of 55". The track is compatible with saws like the Festool, Kreg, and Makita, and you get almost twice the track for the same money.
i have had the wen track saw with wen rails i have found it as accurate as i can use, i have edge joined long boards with it so the rails have aligned perfectly for me, no hassles, has done everything cross cuts rip cuts and edge jointing. it may not be as refined as the 800 saws, it has done everything i have wanted it to do. would buy it again.
I completely agree Alex. I had heard some bad things about the WEN track but since making this video it's been all good. The only advantage I see to the Powertec track is you get a little extra length. Out of curiosity, have you ever had a situation where you found track was a little short? Thanks for sharing your experience.
Good video Matt, I enjoyed it. I have been using the Wen 6 1/2" saw for about 6 months now and I take it on the job site. I also have the Wen track and I have found nothing wrong with either tool or track. Not true on the tool, I did have to align the blade with the saw plate when I first got it but that was no big deal.
Hey Andre, I've been looking to get this set-up and I see you like it. But do you use clamps on the track when you use yours? I've seen a lot of videos where they just lay the track down and start cutting using no clamps. But then theres guys that clamp the track down. I keep thinking that it defeats the purpose because the strips are suppose to hold it in place and its ahould be quicker to make cuts by just laying it down and cutting. What are your thoughts on this?
DeWalt/Bosch tracks are about twice the price. No cordless Wen saw. Cutting vert/horizontal wouldn't be too difficult. Just clamp track in place, lock saw onto track and cut away. But I don't see a need for that in my shop.
@Matt Made It I've seen some use track saw as an alternative to panel saw and cut vertical. But as GC you sometimes need to cut cabinet frames in place standing or door bottom off while door is mounted and track saw can do both using clamps. I'd like to see how your non slip material keeps adhesion to track over time. My dewalt ones get loose
Thanks, you’ve answered a lot of questions I had about track saws. I to am a garage woodworker and would be using this just to break down sheet goods. I’ll be checking your channel out, you seem to be practical no nonsense, thanks again.
Thanks for the "non-salesman" review. This is definitely my front runner. Especially because I plan to use dust collection...they make clips to attach the cord to your hose, making less need for a battery IMO. Also you can buy PET expandable braided sleeve to cover your hose (just like Festool).
I plug it into my power cord reel mounted on the ceiling. That keeps the cord pretty much out of my way. And I've been using my Festool dust extractor for dust collection. Which works great with this saw. Thanks for watching.
@@MattMadeIt123 Small world. I have the saw with Powertec track, and have added braided sleeve to my Festool dust extractor, to which I plug in the saw. Good review--Thanks!
I had a Wen track saw and PowerTec tracks and for a few months was very happy. However, the little plastic cams that align the saw got worn (after about four weekends of light duty) to the point where the saw cut wasn't predictable. Worse than that, though, was that Wen parts dept was out of those cams early fall of 2021 until about a month ago. If you have a Wen track saw, get a couple of pair of those for backup (that's about $20 or so for all four--and the site says there are in stock now). You can thank me later! I do agree with all that Matt said, but as my Wen frustration grew I bought a Makita powered track saw (which works great with PowerTec tracks I already had). There is no comparison between the two! If you can possibly scrape up the extra scratch, you'll be much happier, get more reliable cuts, and never want for parts. If you're on the fence about a track saw, get one! They change the way you'll do many, many things.
Thanks for the heads up. I've used my saw quite a bit and luckily I haven't had this problem. But if I see my cuts getting wonky it's the first thing I'll check. If anyone is interested in checking out the Makita saw here's a link - amzn.to/3RiRuuD
when you first pulled out the tracks i thought ah crap its all bent. Then i thought that looks like too much to be accidental damage, so maybe it's on purpose for extra friction in the middle when you clamp both ends down. Can see that the box has a crack though
I know I'm late to the party on this one but I still have one question did you ever try your CMT blade that you bought on the win and if so, how much better was it than the standard blade?
Yes. One is on it now. The original blade was fine at first but started getting dull much quicker than a quality blade will. I changed to the CMT blade to cut some 6 quarter walnut and just left it on. The saw itself is still performing perfectly.
Great video and rundown of these tools! Providing specific model numbers and/or Amazon links would be cool. Looks like Powertec has a few different models of tracks available. Awesome job!
Love the video. I'm torn between the track saw, or getting a table saw. Seems everyone reviewed the 6.5 inch version. Sounds like the 7.25 is built better with the aluminum sled etc. I like to built subwoofer enclosures,. Track saw might be better.
Yeah Lee I was thinking the same thing lol. I've looked into this and guys say the table saw has its place in a shop just like our other tools do. 🤷♂️ I have a job site table saw and it can be a pain to cut bigger pieces on it, thats where a track saw would come into play. But then again like some guys would say, it depends on what kind of work you'd be doing. I think if I would do it over, I'd skip the table saw and put that money towards a track saw. A track saw and a sliding miter saw would be a pretty good combination.
Thanks Lee. I agree with Joe that it really depends on what kind of work you do. Not everyone needs a table saw. If you go with the track saw I would definitely spend the extra few bucks and get the 7.25". In fact, using the affiliate link above would be an awesome idea. 😁
You'll end up wanting both, so just decide which one to get first. If it's more for sheet goods, the track saw. If it's more for solid wood parts, a table saw is best. For crosscutting longer lengths of lumber, a miter saw. Can't stop once you start!
I've only cut 1 miter with it, and that was just try it it. It did a fine job, but if I want a good, precise, long miter, I'm using my table saw. I mostly use it to break down sheet goods into rough sizes. Works perfect for that.
Thank you for your time this video is very informative and will certainly help me choosing my track saw. I am in 5he same opinion as you about the price I can spend on tool. Without video like yours it is difficult to make my mind.
Yes. I used the 2x4's as support and so I didn't cut into the Centipede. I now have a 4x8 foam panel I cut on with my track saw. I can throw it on top of the centipede or my table saw and out feed table.
Very well done, Matt. I ordered the 4x8 Bora Centipede, but believe that the 4x6 would have worked for most things I do. I have the same dislike of the switch, but it's not a deal killer. Once question about the track. Did you see the Wen track before opting for the Powertec or was it just the additional 10" that drove your decision? Scott
Thanks for your comment Scott. I went with Powertec just based on reviews of both tracks. I don't have any first hand experience with Wen track. The extra 10" was just a bonus.
I think I am too "Old School" I just don't get the concept of spending so much money on a "Track Saw" which is a one trick pony! I have broken down tens of thousands of sheets of flat goods over my 43 years of construction with my 60.00 aluminum base Dewalt circular saw - for a straight edge, a simple straight 1x4 clamped at each end with a good blade. Change the blade to a framing blade and cut 2x lumber all day long. Some duct tape over the base, and an old framing blade, a perfect demo saw. You guys are spending so much money on really ridiculous gimmicks. Don't tell me it is faster, or more precise, as your "track" does the exact same thing as any thing that can be used as a straight edge to run a circular saw on. I actually have switched to a 49.00 Bauer 20v 6-1/2" battery saw, as it is half the weight, and will cut anything my 7-1/2" will except for deep cuts on a 45. Two 4 amp/hr batteries last an entire 8hr day of carpentry.
I've broken down sheets with a circular saw and table saw as well. I've have used the method you describe countless times. But the fact is, a track saw is faster and more precise for cutting sheet goods than a standard circular saw. And much easier and safer than on a table saw. Often, I don't have to clamp the track. That saves time. Just mark 2 points, no offset to think about, lay down the track and cut. The angle or location doesn't matter. And there can be no dispute that an extruded piece of aluminum is straighter and more precise then a random 1x4. You obviously have a lot of experience and what you do works for you. I know I'm not going to change your mind. But I have all the tools and have used them how you describe, and in many situations, I prefer the track saw. Might not be for everyone, but it's a great option to have IMO. Thanks for watching.
Great video and thanks for this comparison! I wonder what’s up with everyone recommending Powertech guides? I haven’t found one video comparing Wen vrs Powertech guides so why is everyone on the same bandwagon with no explanation? Wen track reviews are very high. Powertech track reviews are very low. So what gives? Does anyone know why everyone is touting Powertech with zero information to back up their claims? Wen & Powertech guides look virtually identical to me. If you go to Amazon you’ll see very negative reviews for Powertech guides. Reviewers show the taped on parts falling off. Not so with the Wen tracks. It’s curious why Wen is being dissed and Powertech being pumped. The Powertech is $48 more for a piece of aluminum and a few strips of tape. Why are people justifying that much extra cost? The 110” Wen track is just $100 but the 110” Powertech track is $148! Paying $48 more for what looks like the identical product is baffling to me.
The track was $120 when I bought it. I made my decision mostly off word of mouth. But I did like that the Powertec track is 110", whereas the Wen track is only 100". Reality is, I'm sure, either track would work just fine, but I did want the extra length. If Wen wants to send me some track, I'd be happy to do a video comparing the 2. Thanks for watching.
@@MattMadeIt123 I think that Wen has some newer, longer, tackier track available now, improved over the originals. I got the Powertec for the length when I bought the Wen saw, and probably wouldn't today.
I don't see any difference between this track and the Wen 110" track. I have the Wen track and never had one problem with it. Also no problem with the blade that came with the saw.
If I remember right, when I bought mine, the Wen track was only 100". This made ripping full sheets of plywood more difficult. The original blade on mine cut fine for several weeks, but then I noticed a chipped tooth and a missing tooth, so I swapped it out. I've had the same CMT blade on ever since with no issues. I'm glad the Wen stuff is working out for you.
10 months later how are you liking the wen thinking of getting this setup. thanks in advance.
Still no regrets. Recently used it to cut sheets of siding to repair one of my sheds and then to put a straight edge on a piece of 6 quarter walnut. It does everything I need it to do.
I'm here because you commented on my video about the tool, but am pausing at 0:55 to say I fully support your stickers and apparel! Now on with the show... Okay, you've peaked my interest! I'll have to strongly consider this on my table saw / no table saw journey. Thanks Matt!
You got it Sam. Thanks for stopping by.
I have this saw with the Wen track system and have made more cuts than I can count, I’ve had zero issues with the saw and track and don’t know why some don’t like the Wen track. Glad I didn’t go for the Festool or Dewalt, this saw does all I need and is a great value.
I agree it is a great value. I have used it quite a bit in the last couple months and it has performed perfectly. It's good to hear from people who like the Wen track after hearing so many negative comments.
Shucks, the WEN track with the WEN saw is superior because it enables the use the of the Track Lock that engages the track. The only downside to the WEN tracks are they are 50" instead of 55". The track is compatible with saws like the Festool, Kreg, and Makita, and you get almost twice the track for the same money.
@@jackt6112 The Wen saw locks onto the Powertec track just fine. Thanks for watching.
@@jackt6112 Wen now makes a 55" track.
@@gonebyrv9748 That's good to know.
i have had the wen track saw with wen rails i have found it as accurate as i can use, i have edge joined long boards with it so the rails have aligned perfectly for me, no hassles, has done everything cross cuts rip cuts and edge jointing. it may not be as refined as the 800 saws, it has done everything i have wanted it to do. would buy it again.
I completely agree Alex. I had heard some bad things about the WEN track but since making this video it's been all good. The only advantage I see to the Powertec track is you get a little extra length. Out of curiosity, have you ever had a situation where you found track was a little short? Thanks for sharing your experience.
Matt, great vid! You opened my eyes to a low cost Wen product. I really didn't know what to think of that manufacturer. Thanx for taking the time.
Zac
Very welcome!
Good video Matt, I enjoyed it. I have been using the Wen 6 1/2" saw for about 6 months now and I take it on the job site. I also have the Wen track and I have found nothing wrong with either tool or track. Not true on the tool, I did have to align the blade with the saw plate when I first got it but that was no big deal.
Hey Andre, I've been looking to get this set-up and I see you like it.
But do you use clamps on the track when you use yours? I've seen a lot of videos where they just lay the track down and start cutting using no clamps. But then theres guys that clamp the track down. I keep thinking that it defeats the purpose because the strips are suppose to hold it in place and its ahould be quicker to make cuts by just laying it down and cutting.
What are your thoughts on this?
So where’s the finished product of the plyometric box? Were you able to get that project done?
Yes. It turned out great. Used the CNC to carve a custom message in it. Pics on my Instagram.
What about dewalt or Bosch tracks away? Does Wen do cordless tracksaw? Try cutting vertical and horizontal with it
DeWalt/Bosch tracks are about twice the price. No cordless Wen saw. Cutting vert/horizontal wouldn't be too difficult. Just clamp track in place, lock saw onto track and cut away. But I don't see a need for that in my shop.
@Matt Made It I've seen some use track saw as an alternative to panel saw and cut vertical. But as GC you sometimes need to cut cabinet frames in place standing or door bottom off while door is mounted and track saw can do both using clamps. I'd like to see how your non slip material keeps adhesion to track over time. My dewalt ones get loose
Thanks, you’ve answered a lot of questions I had about track saws. I to am a garage woodworker and would be using this just to break down sheet goods. I’ll be checking your channel out, you seem to be practical no nonsense, thanks again.
Thanks for the "non-salesman" review. This is definitely my front runner. Especially because I plan to use dust collection...they make clips to attach the cord to your hose, making less need for a battery IMO. Also you can buy PET expandable braided sleeve to cover your hose (just like Festool).
I plug it into my power cord reel mounted on the ceiling. That keeps the cord pretty much out of my way. And I've been using my Festool dust extractor for dust collection. Which works great with this saw. Thanks for watching.
@@MattMadeIt123 Small world. I have the saw with Powertec track, and have added braided sleeve to my Festool dust extractor, to which I plug in the saw. Good review--Thanks!
I had a Wen track saw and PowerTec tracks and for a few months was very happy. However, the little plastic cams that align the saw got worn (after about four weekends of light duty) to the point where the saw cut wasn't predictable. Worse than that, though, was that Wen parts dept was out of those cams early fall of 2021 until about a month ago. If you have a Wen track saw, get a couple of pair of those for backup (that's about $20 or so for all four--and the site says there are in stock now). You can thank me later!
I do agree with all that Matt said, but as my Wen frustration grew I bought a Makita powered track saw (which works great with PowerTec tracks I already had). There is no comparison between the two! If you can possibly scrape up the extra scratch, you'll be much happier, get more reliable cuts, and never want for parts.
If you're on the fence about a track saw, get one! They change the way you'll do many, many things.
Thanks for the heads up. I've used my saw quite a bit and luckily I haven't had this problem. But if I see my cuts getting wonky it's the first thing I'll check. If anyone is interested in checking out the Makita saw here's a link - amzn.to/3RiRuuD
when you first pulled out the tracks i thought ah crap its all bent.
Then i thought that looks like too much to be accidental damage, so maybe it's on purpose for extra friction in the middle when you clamp both ends down. Can see that the box has a crack though
Definitely not supposed to be bent. I thought it was strange that one was bent and the other wasn't. Easy fix either way.
Thanks for sharing your experience and information about the saw. And a well done video all around. 👍🏿
Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching!
I know I'm late to the party on this one but I still have one question did you ever try your CMT blade that you bought on the win and if so, how much better was it than the standard blade?
Yes. One is on it now. The original blade was fine at first but started getting dull much quicker than a quality blade will. I changed to the CMT blade to cut some 6 quarter walnut and just left it on. The saw itself is still performing perfectly.
Great video and rundown of these tools! Providing specific model numbers and/or Amazon links would be cool. Looks like Powertec has a few different models of tracks available. Awesome job!
Amazon links to what I purchased, plus some alternatives, are now in the description. Thanks for watching.
Love the video. I'm torn between the track saw, or getting a table saw. Seems everyone reviewed the 6.5 inch version. Sounds like the 7.25 is built better with the aluminum sled etc. I like to built subwoofer enclosures,. Track saw might be better.
Yeah Lee I was thinking the same thing lol.
I've looked into this and guys say the table saw has its place in a shop just like our other tools do. 🤷♂️
I have a job site table saw and it can be a pain to cut bigger pieces on it, thats where a track saw would come into play. But then again like some guys would say, it depends on what kind of work you'd be doing.
I think if I would do it over, I'd skip the table saw and put that money towards a track saw. A track saw and a sliding miter saw would be a pretty good combination.
Thanks Lee. I agree with Joe that it really depends on what kind of work you do. Not everyone needs a table saw. If you go with the track saw I would definitely spend the extra few bucks and get the 7.25". In fact, using the affiliate link above would be an awesome idea. 😁
You'll end up wanting both, so just decide which one to get first. If it's more for sheet goods, the track saw. If it's more for solid wood parts, a table saw is best. For crosscutting longer lengths of lumber, a miter saw. Can't stop once you start!
One complaint I heard about both WEN's is that at a miter setting it wobbles. I can live with that.
I've only cut 1 miter with it, and that was just try it it. It did a fine job, but if I want a good, precise, long miter, I'm using my table saw. I mostly use it to break down sheet goods into rough sizes. Works perfect for that.
Thank you for your time this video is very informative and will certainly help me choosing my track saw. I am in 5he same opinion as you about the price I can spend on tool. Without video like yours it is difficult to make my mind.
Glad it was helpful.
I have the Kreg system but, if it wasn't for the Kreg table I would have brought this Wen for the price. It would have been good enough for me.
Still doing everything I ask of it. Kreg does make some cool stuff though.
I have a question about the centipede. Did you saw over the 2x4s you added to the top?
Yes. I used the 2x4's as support and so I didn't cut into the Centipede. I now have a 4x8 foam panel I cut on with my track saw. I can throw it on top of the centipede or my table saw and out feed table.
Very well done, Matt. I ordered the 4x8 Bora Centipede, but believe that the 4x6 would have worked for most things I do. I have the same dislike of the switch, but it's not a deal killer. Once question about the track. Did you see the Wen track before opting for the Powertec or was it just the additional 10" that drove your decision? Scott
Thanks for your comment Scott. I went with Powertec just based on reviews of both tracks. I don't have any first hand experience with Wen track. The extra 10" was just a bonus.
I think I am too "Old School" I just don't get the concept of spending so much money on a "Track Saw" which is a one trick pony! I have broken down tens of thousands of sheets of flat goods over my 43 years of construction with my 60.00 aluminum base Dewalt circular saw - for a straight edge, a simple straight 1x4 clamped at each end with a good blade. Change the blade to a framing blade and cut 2x lumber all day long. Some duct tape over the base, and an old framing blade, a perfect demo saw. You guys are spending so much money on really ridiculous gimmicks. Don't tell me it is faster, or more precise, as your "track" does the exact same thing as any thing that can be used as a straight edge to run a circular saw on. I actually have switched to a 49.00 Bauer 20v 6-1/2" battery saw, as it is half the weight, and will cut anything my 7-1/2" will except for deep cuts on a 45. Two 4 amp/hr batteries last an entire 8hr day of carpentry.
I've broken down sheets with a circular saw and table saw as well. I've have used the method you describe countless times. But the fact is, a track saw is faster and more precise for cutting sheet goods than a standard circular saw. And much easier and safer than on a table saw. Often, I don't have to clamp the track. That saves time. Just mark 2 points, no offset to think about, lay down the track and cut. The angle or location doesn't matter. And there can be no dispute that an extruded piece of aluminum is straighter and more precise then a random 1x4. You obviously have a lot of experience and what you do works for you. I know I'm not going to change your mind. But I have all the tools and have used them how you describe, and in many situations, I prefer the track saw. Might not be for everyone, but it's a great option to have IMO. Thanks for watching.
Great video and thanks for this comparison! I wonder what’s up with everyone recommending Powertech guides? I haven’t found one video comparing Wen vrs Powertech guides so why is everyone on the same bandwagon with no explanation? Wen track reviews are very high. Powertech track reviews are very low. So what gives? Does anyone know why everyone is touting Powertech with zero information to back up their claims?
Wen & Powertech guides look virtually identical to me. If you go to Amazon you’ll see very negative reviews for Powertech guides. Reviewers show the taped on parts falling off. Not so with the Wen tracks. It’s curious why Wen is being dissed and Powertech being pumped. The Powertech is $48 more for a piece of aluminum and a few strips of tape. Why are people justifying that much extra cost?
The 110” Wen track is just $100 but the 110” Powertech track is $148! Paying $48 more for what looks like the identical product is baffling to me.
The track was $120 when I bought it. I made my decision mostly off word of mouth. But I did like that the Powertec track is 110", whereas the Wen track is only 100". Reality is, I'm sure, either track would work just fine, but I did want the extra length. If Wen wants to send me some track, I'd be happy to do a video comparing the 2. Thanks for watching.
@@MattMadeIt123 I think that Wen has some newer, longer, tackier track available now, improved over the originals. I got the Powertec for the length when I bought the Wen saw, and probably wouldn't today.
I don't see any difference between this track and the Wen 110" track. I have the Wen track and never had one problem with it. Also no problem with the blade that came with the saw.
If I remember right, when I bought mine, the Wen track was only 100". This made ripping full sheets of plywood more difficult. The original blade on mine cut fine for several weeks, but then I noticed a chipped tooth and a missing tooth, so I swapped it out. I've had the same CMT blade on ever since with no issues. I'm glad the Wen stuff is working out for you.
Looks bent
It was. I fixed it.