How to Select a Woodworking Radial Arm Saw

A radial arm saw is a compact woodworking tool that includes a circular blade suspended above a work surface by a metal arm. Radial arm saws are used by many woodworkers because they can be adjusted to sand and bore into wood with different attachments. You should select a woodworking radial arm saw based on price, functionality and brand quality.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Purchase the Right Radial Arm Saw for Woodworking

1. Determine the size of blade you want to use in woodworking before you select a radial arm saw. The two standard blade sizes are 10 and 16 inches, but there are variations on these blades to assist with different projects.
2. Ask the hardware salesperson if a particular radial arm saw comes with specialty blades. Woodworkers use dado, rabbet and miter blades to shape wood in a way that proves difficult with a regular blade. You can search Web sites, like CoastalTool.com, to find dado and other blades if they aren't include with your table saw.
3. Prevent damage from flying scraps and mangled pieces with a quality, anti-kickback device. New radial arm saws come with a device that makes sure each piece of wood pushes through the blade. This device keeps your fingers away from the blade and provides a secure way of making clean cuts.
4. Evaluate your need for any additional services provided by your hardware store. Depending on the amount paid for your table saw, the store might provide free delivery and setup. The delivery person may also be able to demonstrate maintenance tasks, like replacing blades before you begin your first project.
5. Read through warranty and service information on your new radial arm saw. Most arm saw manufacturers guarantee their parts for the first few months in addition to repairing factory defects for the duration of use.

Tips & Warnings

• Choose between a radial arm saw and a table saw early in your woodworking experience. If you select a radial arm saw, you benefit from a more compact tool than the table saw. Unless you plan on selling your projects or becoming a professional, the cost of both saws can be prohibitive for the average person.
• A good radial arm saw is accommodating of a wide range of blade sizes.

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