As a hard-core DIYer, I have used many table saws of varying styles and sizes. In evaluating a broad range of table saws, I started by drawing on my firsthand experience. Any features that can help encourage safe operation or offer enhanced protection, such as blade barriers and auto-stop or anti-restart functions, are a big plus. Table saws can be potentially very dangerous and should be operated with extreme caution. Larger rip capacities generally correspond to a higher price tag, so choosing a saw with more rip capacity than you actually need might end up costing you money needlessly. The type of projects you plan to do will determine the minimum rip capacity that would be best for you. This determines the maximum width you can cut with that saw. In simple terms, rip capacity refers to the distance between the edge of the blade and the edge of the saw’s fence. To “rip” means to cut a wooden board along the grain.
Skillsaw the wirecutter how to#
Skillsaw the wirecutter portable#
Get Ready to Rip: The Best Portable Table Saws, Tested A larger blade generally won’t make as precise of a cut as a smaller blade, but the larger option is able to cut through thicker materials. The most common table saw blade size is 10 inches.
These are for serious professionals-a casual DIYer wouldn’t need this type of power, nor would they likely have the space (or budget) to accommodate it. A high-end cabinet saw is a major investment. Sometimes, the retailers use the jobsite and contractor labels interchangeably, so be sure to read the specs carefully to ensure that particular saw is the kind you want and will meet your needs.īuying a table saw is one situation where bigger doesn’t always mean better if you go overboard, you’ll get a more substantial machine than you need.