Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced woodworker, a table saw is one of the most important pieces of equipment in any workshop.
Choosing the best table saw for your small shop can be a challenging task. Luckily, we’ve put together this guide to help you find the perfect machine.
1. Power
A table saw is a powerful tool that can make quick work of a wide variety of woodworking projects. The right model will also be able to cut materials other than wood, such as tile and plastic.
The power of a table saw comes from the motor, which can reach high speeds to chop through tougher materials like steel. Most models have a brushless motor to maximize their power.
Most saws have a handwheel to raise and lower the blade and a wheel to tilt it. These are usually found on the front or side of the machine.
Many models also feature a splitter, an anti-kickback pawl, and a blade cover. Some models, such as the SawStop, have sensors that sense when your fingers make contact with the blade, causing it to stop almost instantly.
2. Safety
One of the most important things to consider when shopping for a table saw is its safety features. Make sure to look for accessories like a dust collection system, blade guard, and push stick that will keep you safe from harm.
It’s also important to ensure you’re wearing the right attire for the job. Avoid loose clothing, long sleeves, and jewelry that can get caught in the blade.
Lastly, never let any material you’re cutting touch the blade before it reaches its full spinning speed. This can create kickback and result in serious injury to you or your loved ones.
You can also reduce the risk of kickback by adopting a comfortable stance out of the blade’s path and not standing directly in front of it. This will ensure that if the workpiece should kick back it will not hit you directly but instead fly past you.
3. Portability
Portability is a key consideration for woodworkers who need to move their tools around the shop and on job-sites. In this case, it means that you need a saw that can be transported from one room to another easily and without getting in the way of your work.
In terms of portable saws, there are many options available on the market. Some are powered by a cord, while others use batteries. Both have their pros and cons, so it’s important to choose a saw that will suit your needs.
The best table saw for small shops should be compact and lightweight enough to transport. It should also be easy to set up and operate, as well as provide ample safety features.
The best table saw for small shops is the Bosch 4100XC-10, a robust table saw that can be transported with its foldable wheeled stand. It also comes with tons of safety features, including a smart guard system and anti-kickback pawls.
4. Accuracy
Whether you’re an amateur or a pro, a table saw is essential for your woodworking projects. Unlike circular saws, they cut more accurately and are great for ripping, crosscutting, bevel cuts, cutting rabbets and grooves, kerfing, and even making joints.
There are several factors to consider when determining the best table saw for small shops, including the size of the blade, the maximum rip capacity, and how easy it is to adjust the fence for precise cuts. Then, it’s a matter of getting the best miter gauge for micro-adjustments and avoiding rough cuts.
There are 4 main categories of table saws for small shops — portable or benchtop, jobsite or contractor, cabinet, and hybrid. Each category has its own unique features and strengths, but they all have the ability to make high-quality cuts. Choose the one that suits your budget, woodworking style, and shop size.
