The Ultimate Table Saw Buying Guide

Discover the features to look for in a table saw with this guide.

When it comes to woodworking tools, you need versatility. You want the ability to make a variety of cuts, all with one tool. That’s where a table saw comes in.

A table saw is great for making joint cuts, groove cuts, straight cuts, and more. You can tackle a lot of different projects with a reliable table saw.

Whether you’re replacing your old one or buying one for the first time, Blain’s Farm & Fleet is here to help you find the best table saw.

Types of Table Saws

Portable Table Saw

Portable or “jobsite” table saws are perfect for when you need to take your table saw to the job site. They’re smaller and more lightweight than ones with cast iron tables, making them easier to transport. They can sit on a work bench or a stand.

With the smaller size, however, comes less torque. Portable table saws have a direct-drive motor, which links directly to the blade. This transfers all the motor’s power to the blade.

The cost is lower than that of a contractor’s or stationary table saw.

When you need to do carpentry work outside the shop, a portable table saw is a great fit.

Contractor’s Table Saw

For more heavy-duty tasks, a contractor’s table saw is next in line. Weighing between 200 and 300 pounds, they’re still relatively lightweight and can be portable.

A contractor’s table saw has a belt-drive motor, where a belt transfers power from the motor to the blade.

While more expensive than a portable table saw, a contractor’s table saw is still affordable for your home shop or for the hobbyist.

This saw works well for projects like trim work, basic furniture making, and cabinetry.

Stationary Table Saw

Stationary or cabinet table saws are meant for the heaviest of woodworking projects. These large table saws can easily cut through hardwood without putting much wear and tear on the saw alignment and blade.

The powerful motor (more than doubling in horsepower when compared to a contractor’s saw) is encased in a cabinet. This makes the saw quieter when it’s operating.

Stationary table saws are meant to stay in one place and are preferred by professional woodworkers for their shop.

Specifications to Keep In Mind

With every table saw, there are some features and specifications to keep in mind. Here are some of the basics:

Saw Blades

Most table saws come with a 10″ blade. However, there are different blades for different uses. Rip blades, crosscut blades, and combination blades are just a few you can add to your table saw.

Rip Fence

This is the bar that works as a guide for your work piece as it moves past the blade.

Miter Gauge

This is used for accurate and quick miter cuts and crosscuts.

Bevel System

This allows you to tilt the blade to make bevel cuts on your work piece.

Safety Features

When used improperly, table saws can be dangerous. However, if you want one that’s as safe as possible, look for these specific features:

• Blade Guard: Acts as a shield to protect you from making contact with the blade. It also blocks dust and debris from flying at you.
• Riving Knife: Helps prevent pinching of the blade, so there’s a smaller chance of the board kicking back at you.
• Anti-Kickback Pawls: Another feature that holds onto the wood, helping to prevent kickback.

At Blain’s Farm & Fleet, you’ll find all the power tools and equipment you need for woodworking. From table saws to table saw blades, you can trust your home improvement experts to help you get the job done.

For more tips and buying guides like this one, check out our Woodworking Blog.