Hey Kevin I agree with Len on the danger of the fuse repair. Tinsel strength and ampicty are different critters. I am not saying that haven't done some really stupid temporary repairs in my times but at my age I ain't sure that I can out run the fire.
I always keep some fine saw dust from every species that I cut. Mix a little white glue with the saw dust and you have a perfectly matched wood filler.
Don't know anything about it. The shorter stroke may help keep down vibration. The fact that it will take either blade is kinda cool if you don't have to remove the holders to change it over. Never really had a need for a pinned blade but who knows maybe someday.