Four Things to Look For When Shopping for Table Saws
Article by John Brink
Deciding on a table saw is usually a frustrating process because of the wide selection available today. Table saws come in a number of sizes, shapes, and applications they can be used for. Even though the shopping process is often frustrating, listed below are a handful of tips that should make it easier for you to pick out a saw that will hopefully last you for a considerably long time.
Get the Proper Saw BladeThe most common table saws feature 10 inch saw blades. Even so, many of the more expensive cabinet saws have a 12-inch blade. Although size is definitely essential, the blade type is in fact more important. Saw blades can be bought in a number of different types and shapes. Combination table saw blades are preferred and what you will almost certainly use until you are more knowledgeable in using a table saw to execute an array of cuts on several different types of wood.
Determine Quality of the FenceA fence is used whenever you feed a piece of wood on the tabletop and into the blade for cutting. The fence quality will most likely play a substantial role in the price of a table saw. A table saw that has a top quality fence will be higher priced compared to those without. For most common applications, an average quality fence should be more than adequate. Fences of standard quality will be fine for starters or weekend warriors, yet will more than likely not have the quality a veteran woodworker or contractor will require. Either way, you will have plenty of possibilities in replacement fences so it’s not necessarily a big deal if a saw only includes a standard quality fence.
Left Tilt or Right TiltThe majority of saws are able to tilt left or right to allow for exact and detailed cutting. In the past, table saws were just available with a right tilt except if you were willing to spend a small fortune to get a professional saw. Now, you can purchase a left or right tilt table saw. Right tilt saws are selected by the majority of carpenters simply because they make it slightly less difficult to cut precise angles. Right tilt table saws have a number of additional accessories readily available for them, as they tend to be more common and widely used.
Check Miter Gauge FitTable saws are built with a useful tool called a miter gauge which will help you precisely guide the wood as you cut. The miter gauge is loaded into a pair of slots that have been machined in the saw’s table top. A standard miter gauge that is included with a saw is normally of decent quality, nonetheless you can purchase better quality gauges to enhance their operation. A miter gauge must fit securely into the table top slots and really should not be loose.
Sticking with the previously mentioned guidelines, you will be able to pick the perfect table saw for your individual needs.
About the Author
Save money on a Makita table saw and other table saws from great brands like DeWalt and Bosch. Check out my site, Reconditioned Table Saw to find out how you can save hundreds by choosing reconditioned over a new table saw.
We visit Elk River Woodworking and talk with the owner, Ric Bejcek. He gives his opinion of our thin kerf table saw blade. -Total Saw Solutions 800-773-3133 www.totalsawsolutions.com
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