Shopsmith Mark V Model 520 Combination Machine

Pros: Customer support unmatched in the industry
Cons: none

The Shopsmith detractors have missed some important points. It is true, that if Woodworking is your occupation, you will need more powerful and larger capacity stand-alone tools. Also true, is that if you are a professional woodworker, you will need, or ...

Pros: Small footprint, multiple tools in one, A+ quality, Great Company (like Family), Accuracy
Cons: Price (as with everything, it would be nice if it were free!) ;-)

I purchased the Shopsmith Mark V model 520 from a lady whose father passed away before even turning the thing on. It still had the factory rust protectant and switch tape.

My review will focus on a few quick areas that I've found to be...

Pros: Good Lathe and Drill Press
Cons: SMALL table!

This thing came with my House, and seemed like a great deal... at first. The table is too small for anything longer than 16".

I could go on for hours, but I'll stop and list why you should save your money.

1) The cost of a good...

Pros: Versatiity, optional equipment.
Cons: Price

This machine is perfect for homeowners. In use it does take up a lot of room. The advantage is in storage, it folds neatly out of the way. Try putting a lathe, drill press, and table saw in the same space. The quality of a Shopsmith is superior. If ...

Pros: great machine
Cons: none

I am professional wood worker,cabinet maker, licensed general building contractor. I have known nothing but wood work my entire adult life...and before. I spent much of my youth in a cabinet shop. If you can't use a Shopsmith it's because you don't know...

Pros: Compact size, good for limited space. Stored size is about like a bicycle.
Cons: Table tilts instead of blade.

I bought my Mark 5 Model 520 about 10 years ago. My wife wanted new kitchen cabinets, estimates ran about $3500. I bought the Shopsmith and jointer, planed ash lumber, hardware and finish materials for less that the estimates. With many enjoyable...

Pros: VARIABLE SPEED MOTOR SMALL FOOTPRINT
Cons: Small table for table saw

I have wanted a Shopsmith since my first exposure in the 80's. I finally purchased one that is actually paying for itself. I have used many different stand alone machines and nothing compares to the ease of use of the Shopsmith.

I have purchased what I consider the minimum required to have a full service woodshop. I could not have done it with stand alone machines for less than $6000.

Check out my evaluation at www.myshopsmith.com