DIY Life

This week, instead of talking about a particular project, I'd like to talk about one of the most important and versatile tools in the shop: the benchtop table saw. The fact of the matter is that although I'd love to have a contractor table saw or cabinet table saw sitting in the middle of my wood shop, that's not an option.

Sure, it's a two-car garage, but it contains everything else as well. Workbench, lathe, a pile of lumber, power stool storage, paint storage, and of course room enough to actually assemble a project.

The latest models have really come a long way from the earlier models. Manufacturers weren't born yesterday, and recognizing the huge market, responded with plenty of R&D. The newer ones have virtually eliminated vibration issues.

Benchtop saws spin 10 inch blades, so there's no problem with common hardwood lumber sizes or sheets of plywood. And if a chunk of stock happens to be just a hair too thick, you can always do the old trick of cutting half way through and then flipping it over and finishing the job. I'd recommend having a helper if you try this!

And along with that disclaimer, here's another one: always wear those safety glasses or goggles.

Read on to learn the advantages of a benchtop saw, accessories available for it and more.