This determines the maximum width you can cut with that saw. In simple terms, rip capacity refers to the distance between the edge of the blade and the edge of the saw’s fence. To “rip” means to cut a wooden board along the grain. The Best Track Saws for Any Woodworking Project Rip Capacity.

How to Build Your Own Workshop Sawhorse.Get Ready to Rip: The Best Portable Table Saws, Tested A larger blade generally won’t make as precise of a cut as a smaller blade, but the larger option is able to cut through thicker materials. The most common table saw blade size is 10 inches. These are for serious professionals-a casual DIYer wouldn’t need this type of power, nor would they likely have the space (or budget) to accommodate it. A high-end cabinet saw is a major investment. Sometimes, the retailers use the jobsite and contractor labels interchangeably, so be sure to read the specs carefully to ensure that particular saw is the kind you want and will meet your needs.īuying a table saw is one situation where bigger doesn’t always mean better if you go overboard, you’ll get a more substantial machine than you need. Stationary: Cabinet, hybrid, contractor.Portable: Benchtop, compact, and jobsite.There are further sub-categories within each of those two groups. The two broad categories of table saws-portable and stationary-are based on how easy (or not) they are to transport. When shopping for table saws, there are a few things you will want to think about. Over the years, I’ve used an assortment of table saws for woodworking projects such as cabinet doors and shelving. I love much about my home-a fixer-upper built in the 1800s that’s located in a rural mountain region of Pennsylvania-but it involves a lot of maintenance and upkeep, so I’m always eager to find high-quality, reliable tools that can help make projects easier. I owned a maintenance and construction business with my husband for nearly 20 years, and we’re also hardcore DIYers. Show more The Expert: I’ve been involved with construction, maintenance, and home renovation for more than 30 years.

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