If you are a fumble fingers like me, get a pair of quick clamps that fit the channel under the guide rail - you don't have to buy Festool or the exact same brand as your saw, there are plenty of cheaper brands out there and all work because the channel is a standard size. The clamps make sure the rail won't get bumped or creep out of position either before or during a cut. (Micro Jig look like they should work but I believe the dovetail shape on the end doesn't fit rails) The only downside that I have found is that the rail needs to be about a foot (30cm) longer than the job so there is room underneath for the clamps to hang down.
Tracks are super, going back I would have bought a track saw before a table saw, (hobbyist here so it's not a pro cabinet saw), but super tool, saves you lifting heavy sheet goods through a table saw. If your using a new track saw do your first cut on scrap wood as this will cut a bit of the rubber on the guide rail (as it's over sized), this sets up your saw to your rail perfectly. You can also do plunge cuts, a very useful function.
I used a Skill saw all my life without the kick back. The best thing I can think of for track saws are plunge cuts, and of course the track for the saw. We built a lot of store fronts w/ out it using a straight edge. If you can afford it good on you. If you want to skip buying a table saw, it's for you
Expense is relative, a track saw is a lot cheaper than a sliding panel saw and can be a great entry tool for a small shop at a marginal price. The newer ones are dropping the riving knife for a kickback sensor making them even safer with less drag.
Valid points for a dedicated track saw but I'm not sure the extra cost is justified. I think I can perform most of the functions with a shop made track and standard circular saw.
reminds me of smarter every day 209. that was about circular saw kickback and some electronics to make circular saws safer. come to think of it, that video was 3 1/2 years ago. are there any circular saws that have this safety feature? if not, WHY NOT???
