Table Saws

By Mark J. Donovan

A table saw is an excellent tool to own for the serious carpenter or do it yourself homeowner. Some models, such as woodworker table saws are designed for permanent locations such as in as carpentry shop, whereas other models are designed for portability, job site table saw.

Table Saws are excellent for making very straight cuts and ripping lumber into multiple pieces.

They also include a couple of features and accessories that enable other types of cuts.

First the blade angle can be adjusted to make mitered cuts. In addition, the blade depth can also be adjusted.

Second, a cross cut guide allows you to make cross cuts across a piece of lumber just as you would with a circular skill saw. On some models you can adjust the cross cut guide to make angled cuts.

Finally, an adjustable fence allows you to make very straight cuts when ripping a piece of lumber.

Safety Precautions

Table saws can be very dangerous. You should always unplug the saw when making any adjustments to it. Also, always wear eye and ear protection when using one. In addition, never wear loose fitting clothes when operating a table saw, such as unbuttoned long sleeve shirt. Also, do not tamper or remove blade guard.

Finally, to avoid losing a finger when ripping small thin lumber, use a small piece of wood as a tool to push the lumber through. Some models actually provide a tool for this application.