7 Best Contractor Table Saw | Compare Products Side By Side

Are you having ambitions of becoming a professional contractor? Then there are specific tools you may need to make your work a great success. The best contractor saw is one of those essential tools you will need if you have that ambition of going professional.

While there may be some tools for novices, the contractor table saw can be the best choice for the workshop professionals. It provides a safe and hassle-free experience for users

This equipment though comes at a relatively high price, they do a great deal of work for you, in your shop or job site.

Apart from the cost, there are other things one should consider before acquiring this great item. That includes; the size and the weight, making adjustments, portability, safety features, and power.

Top 7 Contractor Table Saw – Reviews and Comparisons:

How to Use Contractor Table Saw?

Using a table saw usually does require some expertise. Great care and safety measures must also be taken as they involve a high risk of accidents.

Research has shown that there is a table saw-related injury every 9 minutes and approximately ten amputations every day in the United States.

That is why it is important to know how to use the machine before attempting to work with it. The below step by step guide with safety precautions from experts and manufactures, is enough to get you going.

1^st Step

As earlier mentioned, safety is a critical priority. Table saws have very sharp blades, and the working environment mostly involves dust, and this calls for attentiveness when using the machine.

Ensure that you are in all personal protective equipment like glasses, among others. When using a table saw, do not try to multitask as this would easily cost you your fingers or arm.

2^nd Step

There are two ways in which you can set the blade. The first method is setting it just an eighth of an inch above the workpiece. This causes tear on the bottom board.

However, it is much safer than the second method as it cannot cause deep cuts in case of slipping. It is ideal for beginners. However, the chances of kickback are increased.

In the second method, the blade is set well above the material. This will less likely cause tear but will cause a deep cut in case of slipping. However, if one is an alert professional, it can still be used.

3^rd Step

There are many types of woodcuts, such as ripping cut, cross cut, and dado cut amongst others. Making angled cuts is a bit of a task compared to the other cuts. There are two types of angled cuts.

One is angled relative to the blade plane while the other one is angled relative to the table lane.

The first cut is made by setting the anticipated angle on the miter gauge then cutting it normally as you would with a crosscut. The second angled cut is made by tilting the blade.

Note: the readings on the miter gauge are ideal for carpentry only. If more precision of the angle is needed, use a more accurate instrument such as a protractor.

4^th Step

The fence of the contractor table saw is used to cut wood of a particular length accurately. This is done by adjusting the dog. Fence adjustment can be tedious and time-consuming.

However, with the below steps, one can do it pretty easily. Place the square against the miter gauge. After this, let the distance between the shorter side of the square and the blade be the width that you want to make.  Once this is done, clamp the wood to the table saw.

5^th Step

Cleaning the table saw is required. This can be done by using a vacuum cleaner or simply sweeping the table.  It is necessary to check for missing teeth.

Note:

7 Best Contractor Table Saw

1. SawStop CNS175-TOP36 1.75Hp Contractor Saw

The CNS175-TGP36 weighs at between 150-300 pounds. This contractor saw has a tabletop measuring at 69 1/8 inches long, 45 inches wide, and 34 ¾ inches thick.

As a safety measure, the product has a safety system designed to detect even the slightest contact with the spinning blade. If a user touches it by accident, the cutting-edge stops spinning almost instantly. Also, a T-Glide fence system provides users with increased precision while sawing blocks of wood.

Another aspect is the inclusion of over 100 configurations to fit the diverse needs of contractors. Its shrouded blade means that it generates less dust and other particles released during operation. At the edge of the cutter is a port connecting directly to a dust collection area.

At the point of inserting wood is a support insert that keeps the material intact. The insert ensures that there is minimal chip-out and wear. The main power switch comes with a lockout key. Unauthorized users cannot turn on the saw and catch a worker by surprise. Another feature of this contractor saw is that it comes complete with a stand.

The depth of cut is between 3 inches and 1/8th of an inch. The four-inch-thick dust collection port ensures that a user can focus on sawing more blocks of wood without stopping to clean up the area. It has an output of 1.75 horsepower and one year’s manufacturer’s warranty.

Features

2. DEWALT DWE7491RS 10-Inch Jobsite Table Saw

From Mexico comes a table saw made just for hardwoods and pressure-treated wood. It weighs 90 pounds and has a mobile stand for ease of movement. A pair of large wheels make it easy to move the component over curbs and debris. A 15-amp motor enables the table saw to rip through hardwood without strain.

Besides, with the blade positioned at a right angle with a block of wood, it attains a cutting depth of 3-1/8 inches. A 45-degree blade position achieves a depth of 2-1/4 inches.

At a thickness of two inches, the dust collection port efficiently extracts dust, ensuring a clean working area. As for the stand, it has rollers to allow for quick set up of the saw and breakdown for movement across job sites. The tabletop measures 26 ¼ inches long, and 22 inches wide. It has a cutting diameter of 10 inches. Other critical components include a power reciprocating saw, concrete, and power saws.

Its rip capacity is 32-1/2 inches although the saw can also make narrow rip incisions. Retractable telescopic fence rails further facilitate this type of cuts.

The DEWALT DWE7491RS 10-Inch Jobsite Table Saw has a wide range of applications from the cabinet to hardwood installers. Trim carpenters will also find the equipment useful. The table saw also comes in handy for deck builders, remodelers and other hobby woodworkers. DEWALT offers a three-year warranty for this product.

Features

3. Powermatic 1791230K 64B Table Saw

Among the key features of this table saw is the location of the riving knife. The manufacturers have placed it near the blade, an aspect that helps reduce the possibility of a kickback during operation. Besides, it also has an in-built dust extraction port.

It weighs between 300-470 pounds and has a 1.75 horsepower. The working surface consists of cast iron material. Beveled edges at the table wings allow users to introduce wood smoothly without losing the accuracy of their intended cut.

The 1.75hp may seem insufficient considering that Powermatic has other table saw variants that go up to 5hp. However, the belt-driven motor helps cut both soft and hardwoods. It can easily manage 1-1/2-inch wood thicknesses. A 50-inch rip capacity is more than any portable saw can achieve.

Additionally, the cast iron table surface helps a user achieve an almost 100 percent flatness. With the metal handles, workers obtain the firm grip needed for angle and height adjustments.
The fence that attaches on one side remains firm and helps keep every cut square.

Powermatic has added a set of rails that give the fence a smooth glide. The legal requirement for table saws in the US is for manufacturers to add safety features such as blade guards and riving knives. The Powermatic 1791230K 64B has a large guard made from clear glass for an unobstructed view.

Features

4. SKIL 3410-02 10-Inch Table Saw

The SKIL 3410-02 10-Inch is a smaller variant of table saws but one with a powerful motor. It can attain up to 5,000 RPM (rotations per minute). While not as powerful as the previously reviewed products above, it is ideal for standard cuts.

However, the table saw can only handle wood thicknesses of below three inches. It has a 10-inch blade, which also happens to be the standard thickness for portable table saws.

With the help of retractable extensions, the SKIL 3410-02 can attain a ripping capacity of up to 25 inches. The cutting depth is at 3-1/2 inches. To achieve the desired slope and blade height adjustments, users only need to turn the single handle on the equipment.

Other table saws come equipped with two handles for slope and height. The SKIL 3410-02 achieves both feats with the help of one handle. Nonetheless, skilled workers can still make the desired results even though the task takes some effort.

The table saw does not have a dust port meaning that it sends sawdust everywhere. Also, the SKIL has a plastic fence. While the fence can self-align, users must always check its squareness.

In terms of safety, the table saw has a riving knife, anti-kickback latches, and a blade guard. At a weight of 67 pounds, and a foldable stand, the SKIL 3410-02 is portable. However, the supporting structure does not have wheels.

Features

5. Makita 2705x 10-inch contract table saw

The Makita 2705X1 targets cabinet installers, general contractors, furniture makers, and professional remodelers. Its size is ideal for small workshops where the economy in space is a top priority. The 15-amp motor delivers up to 4,800 rpm which is way higher than other models of a similar kind.

At 90 degrees, this table saw can cut 3-5/8 inches. On the other hand, at 45 degrees it can cut 2-1/2 inches. The Makita 2705X1 can cut up to four plywood sheets in one run.

The contractor table saw has adjustable side guards for easy cutting measurements. Also, users can utilize the slide system when they need to raise or lower the blade. The table has a workspace space spanning 24-5/8 inches by 22-1/4 inches. Its stand comprises of a sturdy frame with wheels.

Furthermore, it has a provision for easy folding when a user needs to store it for later use. Further, the design allows the equipment to hold accessories such as power supply cord, rip fence, wrench, saw blade, and safety guard.

The blade guard’s design gives the equipment’s user visibility. A person can watch as the blade encounters the wood. Since there is protection, there is little to no chance that debris will get into their eyes.

Also, the flat tabletop, made from aluminum diecast, helps maintain the accuracy of the woodwork. The manufacturer provides a one-year warranty for this product.

Features

6. Delta 36-5000 10-inch left tilt contractor saw

The Delta 36-5000 weighs 230 pounds and measures 40’’x44’’x24’’. It has a cut depth of 3.5 inches from a 10-inch blade powered by a 15-amp motor. Its design allows the contractor saw to carry more weight while maintaining balance. The latter aspect gives users support while working without having to worry about losing precision.

The earlier mentioned 10-inch blade rips 3.5 inches in a 90 degrees angle and 2.5 inches in 45 degrees. Besides, it only requires between 120-240 volts. As the name suggests, its blade can tilt up to 45 degrees to the left. The machine has a simple ON and OFF switch located just below the table, making it easy to operate.

The two wheels on the Delta 36-5000 provides for convenient and easy movement of the equipment. The tubular nature of its stand or base support adds to the saw’s stability and comfort.

On the other hand, the manufacturer has installed blade brakes for quick stopping of the part once a user turns off the power. Such technology helps save many from possible injury and pain.

The Delta Contractor saw has a cast-iron tabletop. Also, the manufacturer has labeled the extension wings an aspect that helps distinguish between the two opposite sides. Its extrusions, made from aluminum, are such that a user can replace them if damaged. As for the fence, it features a Biesemeyer style that features dual rip windows.

Features

7. Jobsite saw with mobile cart

The Jobsite Saw weighs 108 pounds including the cart, this woodworker’s equipment features an elevation system for raising and lowering the blade as needed. A single turn is all it takes; some saws require numerous twists to achieve a similar feat.

Also, the handwheel serves another purpose of tilting the blade. Adjusting the slope is also a simple task. The contractor’s saw has an adjustment knob for the exact degree needed. However, the lack of a hard stop means that a user can easily throw off a perfect alignment.

An onboard storage drawer keeps all accessories in one place. By sliding the table open, the plastic compartment comes into view. Once flipped open, a user will find space for storing their saw guard, miter block and wrenches.

The fence has a smooth glide prompted by a wheel on its back. At the wheel’s front is a lock that helps secure it during use. To lock, a workman needs to push the red lever mounted at the center.

A 15-amp motor runs the equipment generating an output of 4.0 hp (horsepower). Blade speeds can reach 4,000 RPMs (rotations per minute). The Jobsite Saw has dust extractor even though it still leaves behind a messy work area.

The saw can also handle wet lumber, but a user must turn on the override mode. After switching off, the blade retracts under the table hence keeping a user safe from possible harm.

Features

Buying Guide- How To Choose the Best Contractor Table Saw?

Are you trying to find the best table saw, and you feel that you are stuck? This is the best place where you will find the best information that will guide you on various things to look at before purchasing the best table saw.

You may find it more difficult, especially if you have never used the table saw before. This is because they almost look the same with the same features and design.

1. Types of table saw

From the above reviews, there are numerous types of table saws. Top among these are:

Portable table saws: Their design allows for ease of lifting and movement. The Delta 36-5000 is an excellent example of such a saw.

Contractor saws: These are lightweight and ideal for small workshops. Hobby woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts will find these saws affordable.

Cabinet saws: The cabinet-style base gives the equipment its name. They feature cast iron and steel surfaces and powerful motors. The design is such that these saws fit into professional woodworkers’ requirements.

When you want to purchase a contractor table saw, it is therefore advisable to choose the type of saw that best suits all your needs. Choose the portable one with all the features that you may need.

2. Saw blades

Table saw blades are typically divided based on the diameter, size, kerf size, speed, arbor, application, and materials that were used to make them. Search for the best contractor table saw with the best blade.

Circular saws can cut hardwood, softwood, plywood, plastic laminate and light-gauge steel among other materials. All table saw models have a blade guard to protect a user from debris. Nonetheless, users should exercise caution by wearing eye and ear protection.

The direction at which the blade tilt and cuts is crucial since it provides significant advantages and some disadvantages.

Most manufacturers install automatic brakes to stop the blade as soon as it senses contact with a user’s body. Such measures ensure that there is a minimal injury to a woodworker. Despite the differences in style, the significant difference is in the quality of cut. The more the number of teeth, the smoother the cut.

3. Motor

Direct drive saws use universal motors with the blade linked to the engine. Such a configuration helps transfer the kinetic power to the cutting component. Portable saws come equipped with universal motors, an aspect that makes them generate more power. On the other hand, these motors are usually very loud.

On the other end of the spectrum are induction motors. These use a belt to connect the engine to the blade. Such motors operate quietly and do cut dense material. However, they require extensive maintenance compared to the universal variant. A user must keep checking the belts for tension and wear.

4. Safety options

Table saws require extreme care when in operation. Features users should look for include:

Blade guards:
They protect users from accidentally placing their fingers near the saw blade.

Riving knife:
Located behind the cutting edge, it moves proportionately to the blade’s height.

Anti-kickback latches:
These have claws that grab onto a piece of wood hence preventing kickbacks.

Sensors:
They detect any contact of a user’s skin with the blade and cause it to stop running.

Push stick:
This comes in handy in moving the lumber towards the blade.

5. Budget

A well-chosen table saw can achieve a lot for a user. To make an excellent procurement decision, a user must understand the types available and what each does.

Portable variants are easy to carry just as are contractor saws. Professional carpenters will find cabinet saws most ideal owing to their durability and precision. Hybrid saws are also affordable, plus they combine the features found in other models.

Final verdict

When buying table saws, a user must first consider the weight. The chances are that there will arise instances where the equipment needs moving to different sites.

A recommendation of this review is to settle on between 200 pounds and 300 pounds. Such a weight makes the component easy to carry and transport.

Table size is the second most crucial factor. The speed of a pro depends on the working area. Big projects require large tables and the other way around.

The third aspect is the blade size, which also determines the project completion time. Most table saws have 10-inch blades, which is almost the standard size.

Dust collection carries much weight too and is the third factor. Lumber, mainly when dry, generates sawdust and other debris. When such dirt falls on the floor, a user has the additional task of doing clean-up. However, if the equipment has a dust collector, the worker saves time.

Safety, the fourth and last aspect, is perhaps the most important. Table saws come with a host of safety measures, but workers must ensure that there are blade guards and anti-kickback features in any equipment procured. Moreover, owing to the noisy motors that create vibrations, ear protection is necessary.