I searched all over the wreck's archives for recommendations. I made the mistake of buying a $180 Craftsman. The miter rails are not square and flat so it's hard to make any kind of jig involving the miter slots. It's extremely difficult to adjust the blade square to the miter slot. The miter gauge and fence wiggle a lot.
I'm looking at the Bridgewood contractor's saw ($579 on sale). Pros: Price, left tilting blade, 30 inch rail. Cons: Cast iron extension is extra ($70), mediocre fence. Are there any others you would recommend at a similar price with pros and cons? Thanks.