How to Buy a Table Saw

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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A well-equipped shop needs a table saw - a saw with a blade that sticks up through a slot in the table. With this tool, you can cut long boards and make straight or angled cuts with precision.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Spring-loaded Wheel
Feather Boards
Push Sticks
Table Saw Blade Guards
Table Saw Blades
Table Saws

Step 1

Visit places such as Sears or large hardware stores for this tool.
Step 2

Look at bench-top and floor models, depending on your purpose. Bench-top saws are portable but not quite as accurate as floor models.
Step 3

Be sure the saw will fit in the space you have for it and that the power cord will reach an outlet easily.
Step 4

Get a table saw with a vacuum port to keep dust and debris to a minimum.
Step 5

Seek models that come with a miter gauge and a rip fence. These features are for making angled and straight cuts, respectively.
Step 6

Trust in name brands: Makita, Delta, Craftsman and Ryobi are all good brands.
Step 7

Keep an eye out for models with long cords - at least 8 feet - if you are getting the portable type.

Tips & Warnings

Keep the receipt with the manual and other paperwork, and send in the warranty card as soon as you get it.
Also buy a push stick to keep your hands away from the blade, a pair of spring-loaded wheels to hold the work on the table and prevent it from being kicked back, and a feather board to help hold the wood against the rip fence while making cuts.

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Comments

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 Make sure your table saw should has the right HP/amps. it should be a MIN of 2 Hp a 3hp is better.
and should have a ser/ fac 1.5 not lower as well as a Man overload switch (this is a butten you will find on the rear of your motor
AMP/Volts AMPS is base on your hp.
HOME OWNER TPYE UNIT; Should be 115/120 volts

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 Make sure you will be able to get the accessories you will want later - like a dado cutter or a different miter gauge. Also, maintain the table and blades. Car wax for the table top and pitch remover for the blades will keep all running like new.