The first big workshop purchase for most people is a tablesaw. Priced and sized between the large cabinet saws and small benchtop saws, a contractor-style saw is the logical choice for many. I surveyed several brands on the market, checking for flatness, runout, and whether the factory settings of the trunnions and motors were parallel to the miter-gauge slots in the tops. I also ripped and crosscut 8/4 white oak and hard maple to test the machines under load. All of the saws I tested performed well.

The base of the General offers storage area for the miter gauge, rip fence, and wrenches—a nice touch. Ball detents in the miter-gauge bar ensure an accurate fit. With its left-tilting blade, powerful 2-hp motor, sturdy fence, and reasonable price, I consider this saw to be the best buy of the bunch.

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Oneida’s Super Cell Dust Collector

30-Gal with Wall Mount

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Shop Fox W1826

The thick, felted bag on this Shop Fox is a plus and a minus. On one hand, it makes the unit much less expensive than collectors with canister filters, and also lighter and easier to hang on the wall. Without a separate plastic bag to catch chips, however, they stay in the felt bag, and the shortish zipper on the bottom makes it tough to shake them out. Otherwise, the W1826 is an excellent value.

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Stanley Powerlock 16-ft. tape measure

With its smooth lock, tough case, compact size, and excellent accuracy, this Stanley tape is perfect for workshop use.

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