Buying Table Saws
Table saws are extremely accurate and versatile tools. They're great for breaking down rough materials, machining stock to finished dimensions and precisely cutting joints. There are four main types of table saws: Contractor''' saws should be sufficient for most users.
** They are more stable than benchtop saws, but still portable and have enough power to handle most jobs.
** One common complaint is they have terrible dust control with their open leg design.
* '''Hybrid''' saws combine some features of both contractor and cabinet saws.
** They're heavier than contractor saws, which give them more stability, and give better dust control, but they're also compact and can be rolled out when needed.
** Can usually easily cut boards up to 2 inches thick and feature top quality fences.
* '''Cabinet''' saws are the heaviest and sturdiest of the bunch.
** They usually run on 3-5hp motors and can easily handle boards up to 3" thick.
** They're too heavy to move (some may weigh as much as a ton), and most reviewers say a good cabinet saw should last you a lifetime, so weigh your options carefully.
'''Safety Features and Other Features'''
* Convenient '''blade guard and splitter'''. It's less tempting to leave these safety measures off if they're easy to remove and replace.
** Also look for a '''tool-free''' and '''clear''' blade guard.
* '''Easy to reach knee or hip shut-off switch''', which is important especially in emergencies.
** Some cabinet models also feature a '''magnetic switch''' which keeps the saw from turning itself on after a circuit trips or power outage.
* '''Left Blade Tilt''': safer than right blade tilts and reduces chance of kickback. It's also easier to make cleaner miter cuts along the length.
* '''Power''': horsepower plays a significant role here. A 2hp motor is perceptibly stronger than a 1.75hp motor. If you're cutting 35hp cabinet saw.
* '''Low Vibration''': vibration can cause inaccurate cuts. Generally cast-iron is better than stamped and open steel legs. Poor motor design can also cause vibration. Cabinet saws offer the best stability of the group.
