Table saws

With its solid and practical work area, the table saw allows users to make precise cuts in complete safety and is quickly becoming an indispensable tool for weekend do-it-yourselfers and professionals alike.

This being said, choosing the right table saw can be somewhat difficult for the novice handyperson. There are several important elements to be considered during the purchase process: power ratings, standard table saw components and the overall expandability of the tool through the addition of accessories.

This guide can be an extremely useful tool for any individual looking to make the right decision.
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Two Types of Table Saws
Table Saw Components
Accessories
Maintenance and Precautions

Two Types of Table Saws

The first question you need to ask yourself is: Do I need a portable or stationary table saw?

Keep in mind that this is not a question of “professional” versus “amateur” requirements, but relates to how you intend to apply the tool. Stationary table saws are designed for heavy-duty applications (sawing lengths of wood, cutting sheets of plywood, etc.), while portable models, though they may be used on occasion for heavy-duty projects, are designed for lighter-duty activities (finishing work) and should not be subjected to heavy-duty workloads on a regular basis.

Stationary Table Saw

Due to its added power and versatility, the stationary table saw is the standard tool found on most job sites and in most woodworking shops. The saw blade is driven by a belt drive system that has been proven over time to deliver optimal performance, easily “chewing up” lengths of wood without flinching. The table itself provides a larger cutting surface than portable models, allowing the user to handle and cut larger pieces. The motor is easily accessible and may be quickly removed for maintenance, repair or replacement purposes. Another significant advantage: the wide range of accessories designed for stationary models.

Note that some of the larger stationary table saws must be assembled before use; some retailers offer on-site assembly services, charges will apply.

Portable Table Saw

Portable models may often be found operating at the hands of “finishing teams”; small mobile teams assigned to complete the finishing of new houses. Around the home, portables are ideal for outdoor work activities, to limit dust and noise pollution in the home, as well as to take to the cottage or to help out a friend, etc.

The portable nature of the tool does, however, limit its capacity: the cutting surface is smaller, which makes large cuts more difficult; and the direct drive blade delivers less power and may have a tendency to jam when attempting to cut large pieces of wood. The compact motor, hidden in an enclosure, is more difficult to remove. One must also understand that the materials used to build a portable saw are chosen for their lightweight properties and as such may be less durable. The range of accessories for this type of saw is limited as well. Though this would seem to indicate that the portable table saw is not as impressive a tool as its stationary cousin, the fact is that it was specifically designed for light-duty applications and is the ideal tool for working under such conditions.

In the end, it’s up to you to decide whether you want a saw for many work sites (portability) or a saw for many applications (power and versatility). Often, professionals will get both of them.
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