Benchwork Tools?

Personally, I would use typical power tools for your Bench Work.

No reason to substitute power for size.  

 

I found a chop saw to be invaluable as well as a couple of Cordless Drills. 

 

For Smaller Track related stuff a Dremel  

www.dremel.com/en-us/Tools/Pag...Detail.aspx?pid=8000

 

Good luck,

 

Buzz

Yeah I am in the camp with regular tools.  Circular saw, chop saw, cordless drill, tape measure and clamps.  In the areas where the plywood was overhanging the face of the benchwork I used a router with a flush cut bit to trim it perfectly flush with the face...nice thing was that I did not have to get it perfect with a saw, just close.  The router took care of the rest and left a nice clean edge.

Tony,

 

You'll burn out that small stuff with a layout that big.  Or at least make very slow progress.

 

Make it 3 votes for the typical power tools.  I found my 10" compound mitre saw to be invaluable, along with two drills, right angle clamps, a level, and countersunk drill bits.  I used a handheld (saber?) saw to cut my cookie-cutter roadbed.  If I were to do that all over again, I might have it professionally cut using a CNC machine.

 

George

IMO I find a table saw to be my most necessary tool in that I do not use any dimensional lumber for benchwork except for glue blocks & legs.  All support elements are slit lengths of better plywood.  Much more stable, less prone to warpage, very strong.

 

Chop saws are very helpful, but if only one tool is in the budget,  IMO it is the table saw.  You can not rip with a chop.  Almost everything you do with a chop saw can be done with  a table saw.   Can not go wrong with Ridgid products IMO.

 

With either a chop or table saw I would recommend at least a 10" blade.  8" blades are too restrictive for benchwork.  12" blades for both are best but the price and size can be a deal breaker for many.  Opt for the laser option for your chop. 

 

IMO, just use little tools for little models.

 

Also, with proper registration, most Ridgid tools have a lifetime warranty.  Yes even the batteries have a lifetime warranty.  tt

That dremel sawmax is a pretty badass tool. I bought my dad one for Christmas, and wouldn't mind one myself. Definitely not for delicate work like a regular dremel. Cuts 2x4s like butter.