<html> <body> Dean - Tom McNeil's address is  McNeilTom@aol.com.  As far as I know, he is the one who would best answer detailed questions about the tool. David Skolnik Hastings on Hudson, NY At 10:28 AM 8/7/2008, you wrote: <blockquote type=cite class=cite cite=""> Dean and List,   Thanks for supplying the web link for the DeWalt saw. I assume that the shoe of this saw, unlike that of an ordinary reciprocating saw, and due to its “flush cutting” capability is able to ride directly on the pinblock (not on the stretcher top) and still make a cut only 1/8” from the stretcher. Did I get that right? The photo of the tool found at the link below suggests bulk and girth that would not really allow that due to the height of the stretcher from the top of the block.   Also, does the tool have a “lock-on” switch? I like that this tool is relatively lightweight, compact and powerful; and if it indeed rides on the top of the block there is much to recommend it.   Specs from Amazon:   <h2>Product Description</h2> Amazon.com This is a solid, well-built machine. One great feature is the 4-position blade clamp allows for flush cutting and increased versatility for vertical and horizontal cutting operations. The blade clamp is keyless with lever action for quick and easy blade changing. The 10 amp motor has lots of power with a 1-1/8-inch blade stroke and 0-2800 strokes per minute. The variable speed trigger provides precise control; there is a fixed adjustable shoe for depth of cut control. The included heavy-duty kit box makes this a great value right from purchase. Jodi Johnson From the Manufacturer For flush cutting capability, increased versatility, and less bending of blades, DeWalt's Heavy-Duty Reciprocating Saw Kit can't be beat. This kit features a 4-position blade clamp for inserting blades in two vertical and two horizontal cutting orientations. Ten amps of cutting power and a 1-1/8-inch blade stroke easily cut through thicker stock. A variable speed trigger operates from 0 to 2,800 strokes per minute to match the tool speed to the cutting application. A lever-action blade-changing system means faster blade changes and less downtime. Compact and lightweight at 17-1/2 inches long and just 7.0 pounds, this saw is fantastic for tight quarters. Your purchase includes a durable carrying case. Nick Gravagne, RPT <hr> <div align="center"></div>   <a href="http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productDetail&productId=48681-70-DW304PK&lpage=none"> http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productDetail&productId=48681-70-DW304PK&lpage=none</a>   Dean Dean May             cell 812.239.3359 PianoRebuilders.com   812.235.5272 Terre Haute IN  47802   <hr> <div align="center"></div> From: pianotech-bounces@ptg.org [<a href="mailto:pianotech-bounces@ptg.org" eudora="autourl"> mailto:pianotech-bounces@ptg.org</a>] On Behalf Of David Skolnik Sent: Thursday, August 07, 2008 7:44 AM To: Pianotech List Subject: Re: More pinblock stuff - an alternate tool   I asked Tom McNeil if I could forward the following exchange to this list, in case it might be interesting to readers of this thread: Hi, David -   Well, we continued with the chain saw (maybe 100 pianos since you saw my demonstration) up until about a year ago.  Then I discovered a wonderful saw in the hands of a remodeling contractor.  That saw is a DeWalt Model 304P Variable Speed Reciprocating Saw.  Unlike any other recip saw I've seen - including several similar models from DeWalt - this one has a special blade chuck that allows "almost flush" cutting.  I can cut parallel to the stretcher (OK, "cornice" in S&S lingo) and about an eighth of an inch away from it with laudable accuracy and speed.  It's safer, quieter, easier and about as efficient as the chainsaw.  There's a variety of blades available for this saw; I prefer the DW4802, which is 5" x 6 tpi.   For now, the chainsaw is gathering dust!   ~ Tom McNeil ~ Vermont Piano Restorations VermontPiano.com David Skolnik Hastings on Hudson, NY No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG. Version: 7.5.524 / Virus Database: 270.5.12/1596 - Release Date: 8/6/2008 4:55 PM</blockquote></body> </html>