Workshop Myths – Is Bigger Always Better?

Over the years, as woodworkers, we find ourselves learning a few things along the way. Some of these lessons are given to us kindly by nature and others hurt our bodies and more often than not, also find a way to dig really deep holes in our wallets. One such lesson has been the age-old “cheap is expensive” adage. 

Most of us learn the hard way, that one would much rather stay away from the cheapest alternative and instead take the time to acquire the funds necessary for a tool that will most likely outlast the cheaper alternative and provide you with much more satisfying results overall.

But is this always the truth?

Today we explore a few small machines which make you consider whether their bigger and more expensive siblings are indeed better.

Weight

Why go 12V when you get 18V drill/drivers for only a few Rands more?

The body of a 12V drill/driver is commonly lighter, made with fewer parts, and has fewer features than its 18V counterparts. This weight reduction can cause the user to opt for the smaller and lighter drill.

Space 

Why would you go for a smaller mobile table saw instead of a traditional cabinet table saw?

In these modern times, space is not an abundant thing. Every day we hear our colleagues talk about how extensive the negotiation process is when one wishes to commandeer a section of the garage space that they currently share with their partner. These circumstances require one to use a smaller and more portable approach to make for easier storage and more “temporary” workspaces which fit the weekend woodworker – perfectly.

Safety

Bigger blade, bigger motor means better machine right?

Believe it or not, a bigger and more intimidating machine also makes for a much more dangerous machine. The bigger the blade and the faster this blade spins makes your chances of sticking your hand beneath it a lot easier. Bigger band saws have deeper cutting capacities, this makes it easier for you to cut your finger when making intricate MDF cuts on your band saw.