Recommended First Machine

[vvvjames]

Hello all, 

I have been yearning for a tabletop machine to help with modeling, and have narrowed the search down to a few options (proxxon table saw or disk sander).  I wanted to come hear and ask a few questions before I committed to either. 

 

I imagine there is a "big 3" machining tools for models ships, those being a table saw, a disk sander, and a mill(?). Please add to that list if I'm wrong, I am definitely over generalizing based on what I've seen. I was also considering a drill press, but I feel ok with my drill vice at the moment. 

My question is, what would be a good first machine for someone who's only really used hand tools/Dremel? 

What machine (excluding CNC and 3-D printer) do you get the most use out of? 

My reasoning for wanting the sander and/or table saw is to make planking easier and smoother, I have struggled with clean, square cuts and tapering with just an exacto knife. 

Would love to hear your opinions!

Edited 8 hours ago by vvvjames

[tmj]

What's your budget for said 'machine'?

[hornet]

As the owner of 10 Proxxon tools, I’d go with the disk sander. 

[vvvjames]

12 minutes ago, tmj said:

What's your budget for said 'machine'?

Under $400 if possible!

[Y.T.]

Disk sander is more important for wood ship modelling. I have no doubts. Table saw is complimentary especially if you are not going to manufacture your own wood planks from scratch. 

[palmerit]

Have you considered the Ultimation tools - sander and slicer : https://ultimation.ca

 

They’re high quality but non-motorized. They both small and light enough that you can easily take them on and off a workbench. Lots of uses of a power sander are easily done with the Ultimation sander and the slicer is great for cutting planks. I use both of them all the time. 
 

The total for both tools I think is around your budget and worth it I think. 
 

This set solves the problems you highlighted about keeping your part cut and sanded at 90 degrees. I’d recommend these first and then move on to power tools that will need a dedicated area. With the Ultimation tools I can do everything from my work table in the house, keeping the slicer and sander right under the table. For me, a power sander (or mill or lathe or table saw) would have to be down in the cellar. 

Edited 6 hours ago by palmerit

[TannumIan]

While not a machine I have found the mini block plane excellent for tapering planks.

[Ronald-V]

3 hours ago, hornet said:

As the owner of 10 Proxxon tools, I’d go with the disk sander. 

 

3 hours ago, Y.T. said:

Disk sander is more important for wood ship modelling. I have no doubts. Table saw is complimentary especially if you are not going to manufacture your own wood planks from scratch. 

This! 🙂

 

Ship modelling would be much more less enjoyable without a disksander in my opinion.

 

I use the Proxxon one and I am pleased with that one 🙂

Edited 3 hours ago by Ronald-V