Which Table Saw Should I Buy?
By Scott Spencer (A.K.A Knottscott)
Buying a table saw can be a little confusing to an inexperienced buyer. The models, brands, manufacturers, and types of saws are in a constant state of change, and there are dozens to pick from. What was true just a few years ago may no longer apply, so it can be difficult to get reliable information even from seasoned veterans if they haven’t been keeping up on the trends. Even seasoned veterans may be surprised at how rapidly the marketplace changes. Opinions vary widely about which saws are best, and the classifications are more blurred than ever. Because many saws roll off the same assembly lines from the same plant, but sport different name plates and color schemes, in my opinion it’s best to focus more on the type of saw that’s most suitable for your needs, and deal with the available brands after making that decision. Don’t dismiss a full size saw because of your impressions of a portable saw of the same brand, or vice-versa….there’s often very little correlation between them. The vast majority of table saws available in today’s marketplace can be divided into two major categories – portable and stationary, with varying sub-classifications for each. To keep things manageable, this article will focus only on 10” saws with standard 5/8” arbors that will accept standard 10” saw blades.