Shopsmith Forums

In the infomercial for the Bladerunner it did not show any cuts with a blade tilted. With a jigsaw you can do compound cuts. And it did not look like it would cut any thing over 1”or so thick. I can not see buying one. I think you have more options with a good jig saw.

Keep in mind that serious woodworkers/enthusiasts are NOT the target market for such tools as these.

They are targeting the beginner (hence the entry level price of approx $150.) and seriously budget conscious hobbyist that doesn't have near the interest in tools as most of us here. They just want their small projects finished with minimal fuss.

Those of us already equipped with a plethora of saws won't buy this (except out of curiosity maybe). I'm curious to see the actual quality of the tool as well as quality of cuts.

It's not a bad idea for the space and budget constrained. Heck, the only reason I have a SS is because it has been handed down (My Papa, to my Dad, and now to me). I know I can't afford one now (if ever).

I still say the infomercial was a perfect example of what Shopsmith needs to sell the Mark V.

As for the tool itself, imagine a guy building models, doll houses, birdhouses and etc. The tool would probably fit is needs perfectly.

An informercial would be great! But I'd like to see them sponsor a woodworking show (expensive, I know) or at least get some of the PBS type shows to give their audience a view of an alternative to a big shop full of expensive stand-alones. I remember in my early days and first exposures to the Shopsmith (demonstrations in the local mall) and one thing that really impressed me was to see pictures of the amazing things owners built with their machine, both the diversity and the quality.

I love my SS. I wish I could have a new one, but like most people it is simply outside my budget constraints. Which always leaves me wondering why the darn things are so expensive to begin with. I really believe that the price, in a market full of cheap (and inexpensive) tools makes it very hard to sell quality, great customer support and flexibility, even with easy financing. I know this is a niche market. I'd just like to see them go for a bigger niche.