Jessem Clear-Cut TS™ Stock Guides on Shopsmith 520 Fence

[BuckeyeDennis]

In decent volumes, fabricating in sheet metal is considerably more cost-effective than machining solid stock. I'd guess that the new ones work just as well, but IMO they're a lot less likely to win a beauty contest!.

[RFGuy]

In decent volumes, fabricating in sheet metal is considerably more cost-effective than machining solid stock. I'd guess that the new ones work just as well, but IMO they're a lot less likely to win a beauty contest!.

Dennis,

Agreed. They make a point of saying this on their website "Mounting kit is compatible with Bosch, Milwaukee, SawStop, DeWalt, SKIL table saws but may affect the placement of the push stick and holder." So, it seems like they are marketing this product to contractor tablesaw owners, but also as a cheaper alternative for cabinet tablesaw owners, etc. I believe. Also it might be a little easier to navigate around this version with a push stick, but I think the real attraction is them selling it as an easier bolt on to specific tablesaws on the market. In one short video I saw them quick connect them, so I think the bases can stay in place on top of your fence so quick removal and reattach is possible with this new version which is a plus. You make a good point about their change in manufacturing process. I have noticed that the last 1-2 years, i.e. they seem to be offering new versions of existing products. The old versions, still sold, are cast aluminum while new versions are bolted together stainless steel plate versions. Aesthetically, to me, the new ones are not as attractive as the original. I do wonder, if eventually they will discontinue the older cast aluminum versions. I first noticed this in their doweling jig, which I own, but then they started doing the same stainless steel plate treatment to some of their marking/measurement tools as well. It seems like they are converting and/or seeking to offer stainless steel plate versions of many of their products that used to be cast aluminum.