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Table saws are essential tools in any woodworking shop, but they can be improved upon to make them more efficient and effective. In this article, the focus is on upgrading the blade, improving the miter gauge, building a crosscut sled, creating a tapering and jointing jig, and using thin rip jigs and stock guides. These upgrades will help woodworkers to cut more accurately, safely, and cleanly, resulting in better projects.
The article begins by discussing the importance of upgrading the table saw blade. Many stock blades that come with table saws are low quality and can be replaced with better options. The article provides recommendations for blades at different price points, from budget-friendly to high-end. The second upgrade is improving the miter gauge, which is often low quality even on expensive saws. The article recommends the Incra V27 as a good option for a reasonably priced upgrade. Building a crosscut sled, tapering and jointing jig, and using thin rip jigs and stock guides are also covered in the article. These upgrades are easy to make and will greatly improve the accuracy and safety of cuts.
Key Takeaways
- Upgrading the table saw blade can greatly improve the quality of cuts.
- Improving the miter gauge is a simple and affordable upgrade.
- Building a crosscut sled, tapering and jointing jig, and using thin rip jigs and stock guides are all easy upgrades that can greatly improve accuracy and safety.
Upgrading the Table Saw Blade
Good Blade Option: Diablo Line
The Diablo line of blades is a good option for those on a budget. They are inexpensive and last a decent amount of time. While they may not last as long as some of the higher-end brands, they are a great choice for those looking for a good blade at a reasonable price. They are versatile and can be used for a variety of cutting tasks.
Diablo by Freud “Freud D1050X Diablo 10″” 50-tooth ATB Combo Saw Blade w/5/8″” Arbor&PermaShield”
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Better Blade Option: CMT Chrome Edition
The CMT Chrome Edition blades are a step up from the Diablo line and are a great choice for those looking for a middle-of-the-road blade. They are versatile and can be used for both cross cuts and rip cuts without much tear-out. They come in a range of tooth counts, with the 40 to 60 tooth range being perfect for most users. They are well-made and will last a long time.
CMT 285.650.10 Orange Chrome Combination Blade 10″ x T50 ATB+TCG
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Best Blade Options: Forest and Ridge Carbide
For those doing a lot of work or wanting to buy the best of the best, the Forest and Ridge Carbide blades are excellent options. The Forest blade compares closely to the CMT line, while the Ridge Carbide blade is made in the USA by a small company. Both are high-quality blades that will last a long time and provide excellent cuts. However, they are more expensive than the other options and may not be necessary for all users.
Forrest WW10407125 Woodworker II 10-Inch 40 Tooth ATB .125 Kerf Saw Blade with 5/8-Inch Arbor
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Overall, upgrading the table saw blade is one of the easiest and most effective ways to improve the performance of the saw. By choosing the right blade for the job, users can achieve cleaner, safer, and more accurate cuts.
Importance of a Good D-Set
A good D-Set is an essential upgrade for any table saw. It is especially important for those who work with half flaps or cut Doos. The D-Set ensures that the saw blade cuts accurately and smoothly, saving time and effort in the long run.
Investing in a quality D-Set is highly recommended, as it can make a significant difference in the precision and efficiency of the saw. The price of a D-Set is relatively low compared to the benefits it provides, making it a worthwhile investment for any woodworker.
The D-Set is designed to ensure that the saw blade stays true to its path, preventing any deviation or wobbling. This is crucial for achieving accurate cuts, especially when working with delicate materials or intricate designs. A high-quality D-Set can also reduce the risk of kickback, which is a common hazard when working with table saws.
Overall, a good D-Set is an important upgrade that every woodworker should consider. It can improve the accuracy and safety of the saw, making it an essential tool for any woodworking project.
Improving the Miter Gauge
Affordable Option: Incra V27
One of the most important upgrades to make to a table saw is to replace the stock miter gauge. Even expensive saws often come with poor quality miter gauges. The Incra V27 is a great option for those on a budget. It is a simple design that fits in a standard t-slot, making it compatible with most table saws. It costs less than $100, making it a great value. It also has the option to add a faux fence for added versatility.
INCRA MITERV27 Miter V27 Miter Gauge
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Premium Option: Harvey Compass
For those who want a more premium option, the Harvey Compass is a great choice. It has many features such as a micro-adjustment system and a fence already attached. It is well-made and reliable, making it a great investment for those who use their table saw frequently. While it is more expensive than the Incra V27, it is worth the investment for those who want added features and durability.
It is important to note that upgrading the miter gauge can greatly improve the accuracy and safety of a table saw. It is a worthwhile investment for anyone who uses their saw frequently.
Building a Crosscut Sled
One of the most important upgrades to make to a table saw is to build a crosscut sled. This sled is a simple build that can be made from plywood and a little bit of time. It is a very useful tool for ensuring that your cuts are square and for cutting small parts.
The crosscut sled also has a miter fence that allows for cutting any angle. Additionally, it has handles on the back to make it safer for the user, ensuring that hands are never near the blade. This is especially important for those who work with small parts or need to make precise cuts.
The safer crosscut sled also features a stop block that allows for cutting most anything. It can be adjusted to fit any miter saw and can be made narrower or wider depending on the saw.
Overall, building a crosscut sled is an easy and essential upgrade for any table saw user. It is a simple way to ensure that your cuts are precise and safe, and it can be customized to fit any saw.
Tapering and Jointing Jig
One of the upgrades that can make life easier for those who do not have a jointer is the Tapering and Jointing Jig. This jig is easy to make and requires only a piece of plywood, a dovetail bit, and a router. It can be used to edge joint as well as taper, making it a handy tool to have in the workshop.
The Tapering and Jointing Jig is perfect for making tapered legs or any other tapered piece. It takes about 20 to 30 minutes to make and can be adjusted to fit any miter saw. It is a handy little jig that is easy to make and will be used frequently in the workshop.
The jig can be used to edge joint by adjusting the bit to the desired depth and running the board through the router. The resulting edge will be straight and square, making it easy to join to another board. The jig can also be used to taper a board by adjusting the angle of the jig and running the board through the router.
Overall, the Tapering and Jointing Jig is a simple and effective tool that can make life easier for those without a jointer. It is easy to make and will be used frequently in the workshop.
Thin Rip Jig
One of the upgrades that can make a significant difference in the quality of your table saw cuts is the use of a thin rip jig. This jig is designed to cut thin stock on the left side of the blade, allowing for precise and safe cuts.
The thin rip jig is a cheap and effective upgrade that can be used on any standard t-slot. It works by setting the jig to the thickness of the thin stock you want to cut, such as 1/8 inch. The first cut will be made at this thickness, and then the fence will be moved over for the second cut, also at 1/8 inch. This process is repeated until the desired width is achieved.
By using the thin rip jig, you can avoid having a tiny space between the blade and the fence, which can be unsafe and result in inaccurate cuts. This jig is a great addition to any table saw and can help you achieve precise and consistent results.
Thin Rip Jig Table Saw Jig for Making Repetitive Narrow Strip Cuts on Table Saws
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JessEm Stock Guides
One of the most helpful upgrades to a table saw is the JessEm Stock Guides. These guides are designed to hold the stock against the fence, keeping it pressed tightly and preventing any deviation in the cuts. The guides have rollers that are slightly tilted towards the fence, which pulls the stock towards the fence. This is particularly useful when cutting sheet goods or thinner stock.
The JessEm Stock Guides are easy to install and adjust. They can be placed anywhere on the table saw to make the necessary cuts. The guides are made by JessEm Tool Company, which is known for producing high-quality tools. They are compatible with most table saws and can be easily attached using magnets or screws.
Many woodworkers have found the JessEm Stock Guides to be an essential tool in their workshop. They provide a level of precision that is difficult to achieve with other methods. The guides are also very durable and can withstand heavy use.
Overall, the JessEm Stock Guides are an excellent investment for anyone who wants to improve the accuracy and precision of their table saw cuts. They are easy to install, durable, and highly effective.
JessEm 04301 Clear-Cut TS Stock Guides
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Table Saw Push Sticks
MICROJIG GRR-RIPPER GR-100 3D Table Saw Pushblock
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Push sticks are essential accessories for any table saw. They are used to keep the operator’s hands a safe distance away from the saw blade while still allowing them to guide the workpiece through the cut. Using push sticks can help prevent accidents and injuries.
There are many different types of push sticks available, ranging from simple wooden sticks to more complex designs that incorporate grippers or other safety features. Some push sticks are designed to work with specific types of cuts or materials, while others are more versatile and can be used for a wide range of applications.
When selecting a push stick, it is important to choose one that is comfortable to hold and easy to use. The stick should be long enough to keep the operator’s hands a safe distance away from the blade, but not so long that it becomes difficult to control.
Magswitch MagJig 150
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It is also important to use the correct type of push stick for the job at hand. For example, a narrow push stick may be more appropriate for making narrow cuts, while a wider push stick may be better for wider cuts or larger workpieces.
Overall, using a push stick is an important safety measure when working with a table saw. By choosing the right push stick and using it correctly, operators can help prevent accidents and injuries while still achieving accurate and precise cuts.
Featherboards for Table Saw
BOW Products FeatherPRO FP1 – Featherboard for Tables Saws
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One of the upgrades that can be made to a table saw to improve its cutting performance, safety, and cleanliness is the use of featherboards. Featherboards are devices that are attached to the table saw’s fence or miter gauge to help guide the workpiece through the blade and prevent it from moving around during the cut.
Featherboards come in different shapes and sizes, but they all work on the same principle. They have flexible fingers or “feathers” that press down on the workpiece and keep it against the fence or miter gauge. This helps to prevent kickback, which can be dangerous, and also ensures that the cut is straight and accurate.
There are different types of featherboards available, including single featherboards, double featherboards, and adjustable featherboards. Single featherboards are the simplest and most common type, and they are usually attached to the fence or miter gauge with clamps or magnets. Double featherboards are similar to single featherboards, but they have two sets of feathers that provide extra support and guidance. Adjustable featherboards are more versatile and can be adjusted to fit different workpiece sizes and shapes.
Featherboards can be purchased online or at hardware stores, but they can also be made at home with some basic woodworking skills and tools. There are many online tutorials and plans available that show how to make featherboards using scrap wood and other materials.
Overall, using featherboards is a simple and effective way to improve the performance and safety of a table saw. By keeping the workpiece against the fence or miter gauge, featherboards help to prevent kickback and ensure accurate cuts.
Zero Clearance Table Saw
One of the easiest upgrades that can be made to a table saw is to replace the blade. Most stock blades that come with table saws are not of good quality. The Diablo line of blades is a good budget option that lasts a decent amount of time. The CMT Chrome Edition blades are a good middle-of-the-road option that is suitable for most users. The Forrest blade is a high-end option that is comparable to the CMT line. The Ridge Carbide blade is another high-end option that is made in the USA.
A good D set is also necessary for the table saw, especially when doing half-laps or cutting dados.
A good miter gauge is another upgrade that will not break the bank. The Incra V27 is a simple design that fits in a standard t-slot and is a good option for the price. The Harvey Compass is a more expensive option with more features.
A crosscut sled is an easy upgrade that can be made with plywood and good plans. It is useful for cutting small parts and ensuring square cuts. The safer crosscut sled has handles on the back to make it safer and a miter fence that allows for cutting any angle.
A tapering and jointing jig is another easy-to-make jig that is handy for edge jointing and tapering.
The thin rip jig is a cheap and effective way to make thin cuts without compromising safety.
The Gess some stock guides are useful for holding stock against the fence when cutting sheet goods or thinner stock. They have rollers that pull the stock toward the fence to keep it pressed tight against the fence and prevent deviation in cuts.