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 Jet was a good-quality machine with a reliable fence. There’s a lot of attention to detail, but the machine is more expensive than most of the other saws tested.

 

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Oneida’s Super Cell Dust Collector

30-Gal with Wall Mount

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Ridgid EB4424 Oscillating Spindle/Belt Sander

With five spindles sized from 1/2 in. to 2 in. and a 4 X 24-in. belt, this sander has become a staple in many a shop Fine Woodworking visits.

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DeWalt 735X Planer

At high speed, the planer works fast and leaves a smooth surface. But the slower, finish speed produces an almost glass-smooth surface. Knife changes are easy.

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