We’ve got approximately $1670 to spend on the metal shop thanks to a grant. Any purchased items need to be new, and due to space requirements we can’t really have anything large.
Personally, I’d like to buy a new chop saw + a dry cut saw + hydraulic press - assuming we’re allowed to buy multiple tools. The saws themselves would be heavily interlocked, and any breakage of the dry cut saw from improper use would end up with the user being entirely responsible for replacing the blades (which only break if they’re mistreated). With that being said, I’m open to suggestions about what other people think.
Dewalt 355mm Cold Cut Saw - $815
Dewalt 355mm Cut Off Saw - $449
20t Hydraulic Press - $299
Total cost - $1563