Things to Keep in Mind When Buying a Table Saw

Are you planning a DIY project for a home renovation? Are you a professional contractor looking for your next device? 

The first thing to deduce on your hunt for the ideal table saw is to consider what you plan on using it for and where you plan on using it. If you plan on carrying out something like cutting up boards, you’ll require something much simpler than if you plan on making furniture. 

Taking into consideration your workshop space is also essential. If your work area is compact you more than likely want a portable table saw that will also be able to be stored easily. 

Below are the other considerations when buying a table saw.

Know Your Saw Types 

There are three main types of table saws depending on what your projects generally look like. 

• Cabinet Saws 

These saws are perfect for the avid woodworker. You can find a cabinet saw at your local hardware store if you plan on using it for a variety of projects. They are essentially the saw version of the saying ‘Jack of all trades.’ 

Not only are these saws quiet, but they’re sustainable and generally can cut through the wood for hours without fail. They typically hold up to 5 horsepower and weigh over 400 pounds. 

While Cabinet Saws are amazing, the downside is their size – especially if you’re working with limited space. They can’t exactly be put away, and where you decide to set it up is most likely where it will have to stay.

• Bench Table Top Saw

Bench Table Top Saw’s on the other hand are perfect for people with limited space. They’re light and compact. Another perk is, because of these factors, a Bench Table Top won’t break the bank. 

If you plan on using your table saw in a garage workshop for some light woodcutting, or have the need to move the saw from place to place – this saw is it for you. 

However, their size does come with some drawbacks you should be aware of. Their small frames mean limited power and a limited amount of space on the saw to actually cut the pieces of wood. That means using a Bench Table Top Saw may stop you from completing a project depending on the size of the material.

• Contractor Table Top Saws 

If you’re a professional who uses a table saw for your everyday work – you should definitely add a Contractor Table Top Saw to your potential list. 

These basically stationary saws are a more cost-efficient version of a Cabinet Saw. Although they are smaller and more compact than their counterparts, they still exude a high amount of power and contain one of the best motors. 

Contractor Table Top Saws are most often used for projects involving finer details because the structure of their surface reduces the vibrations from the blade. 

Knowing Your Blades 

After you choose what saw works best for your needs, it’s important to get to know the blades that can be used with your purchase.

Blades are what distinguish the different cuts of a saw and there are four main types: 

• TCG: This blade generally has smaller teeth and works well when it comes to cutting materials like laminated plastic, metals, and other concentrated materials 
• ATBR: This is an angled blade that’s known for making precise cuts and is used by many as a multi-purpose blade 

• FTG: This blade has longer teeth and isn’t concerned with making a clean-cut – but it’ll get the job done. 

• ATB: This is also an angled blade known for making clean cuts.

Stay Up To Date With Safety Features & Protocols 

As you’ve probably assumed – using a table saw can go horribly wrong if you don’t follow the proper safety protocols. 

To ensure that you create the safest table saw experience, here are a few tips to follow: 

1. Always start the saw away from all materials you plan on cutting. Manually move the material in after the saw is on and functioning properly 
2. DO NOT wear gloves. You might think this helps protect your hands but it also hinders your grip and offers the blade something to get caught on to. 
3. Keep your area clean. You don’t want yourself or others falling into your table saw. Wearing non-slip shoes can also help with fall prevention. 
4. Make sure you’ve turned the saw completely off before going in to make adjustments or changing a blade 
5. Always wear eye protection. Goggles will prevent stray pieces of wood from getting into your eyes and potentially damaging them. 

Ultimately, only you can decide what table saw will meet your needs. However, following these guidelines can set you on the right path to making your purchase worthwhile. Be sure to always follow the safety rules and Good Luck!