I’ve been trying to read up on table saws but still don’t know how much saw to buy. I read the differences between a hybrid saw and a cabinet saw and I don’t fully understand the difference. This will be a general use saw. I’ll use it to build some of our cabinets.
Here is what I need, or at least what I think I need. Feel free to critique any of these.
1) Something that can run on a 20 amp circuit for now and later rewire for 220V when I have more room on my panel.
2) A saw that can be upgraded with a higher quality fence, or even comes with a high quality fence from the start.
3) A saw that comes with extensions which will allow me to crosscut lightweight sheet material. In fact this would be more useful than the nicer fence – at least for now.
4) A saw that can double as a router table. Again, this is a feature I’d use from the start.
What I’m not overly concerned with:
1) Power
2) Portability
Thanks for any input.
Replies
Ask this question and search in the "knots" forum to the right of the breaktime up above, that is the woodworking forum and they will have more info on building cabinets and larger table saws and equipment.
2,3,and 4 are virtually any saw. I've helped put a Biesemeyer on a Sears POS. Almost made it into a decent saw, complete with router table on the outfeed.
That leaves power. Get a cabinet saw and deal with the 240v. Cast iron is good. More is better.
PAHS Designer/Builder- Bury it!
Chris, Just went through the same process. Ended up buying a Delta Unisaw 50" With Biesemeyer fence from Woodworker's Supply. Great reference from Ed, the resident table saw expert, and it was on sale with a free mobile base. What could be better?
Cast iron table, insides are identical to a Powermatic. I would have to recommend it to others. Having said that, I have not actually used it yet, so stand by.
Cheers.
I used to do hobbist type work with my Dad's Delta contractor saw. It had cast iron wings (nice) and the stock fence (not nice). The saw did fine with sheet goods and 4/4 hardwood lumber. But trying to cut thru 8/4 maple was a chore and I bought thin-kerf blades to help the saw out.
When equipping my own shop, I bought a new Unisaw with a 50-inch Unifence last year and it's nice not having to worry about power. The weight also dampens vibration. (I looked for a used saw in good condition, but used cabinet saws always sell fast). However, if you're working primarily with hardwoods, I'd almost go with a nice 17-18 inch bandsaw equipped with a good fence and get a contractors saw. A friend bought a Mini-Max and has been happy.