What should you consider when buying a table saw?

Many types of table saws are available—it deserves time to deliberate and think before investing in one. You should keep the following factors in mind:

• Check the dust collection system: Choose a table saw that has a dust collection system. It ensures a clean workshop, as the sawdust is collected automatically in the dust bag.

• Check the ease of use: Buy the product which operates smoothly. If it is not easy to handle, there is no point in buying such a tool.

• Check the switches: Opt for a table saw which comes with a magnetic switch as well as a kick switch. The magnetic switch helps to switch off by itself when the power goes off, and switch on when the power comes back. Since the hands remain occupied while working, a kick switch allows you to turn off the saw with your foot or knee.

• Look for a riving knife: Look for a riving knife in your saw. It is attached in back of the saw blade, and serves to keep the wood down as the saw blade enters into it. It prevents the saw blade from grabbing and “snatching” the wood from your hand—a dangerous phenomenon called “kickback”, which can result in serious injury.

• Check the horsepower: The motor’s horsepower is an important feature to look for. It is a good indicator of how capable the saw is in cutting through wood. Select the horsepower range based on the voltage of your working area.

• Go for a flesh sensor: Choosing a table saw with a flesh sensor saves you from getting injured from the saw blade. It senses contact with human skin, by the fact that human skin conducts electricity. It will stop the saw blade as soon as it comes in contact with human skin.

Buying a table saw is an important investment for your profession or hobby. Do so with a proper amount of thought and research.