The Mightiest Contractor Table Saw for the Dollar
It’s funny how the cheapest tools in your shop can actually be the most expensive. It’s true. When you want to save on the dollar and buy a bench-top saw instead of a contractor saw, you could be in for a lot of surprise. And that’s because saws aren’t created equal. You would do well to heed good advice.
For the naked eye a saw cutting wood may look the same. But all the tremors won’t lie. And that should be something to watch out for.
One thing to realize is that wood varies. Just as they come from different source, different trees and are processed differently, each piece of wood would exhibit different characteristics. And this is most apparent when cutting them.
Every wood has its own density. A closer look reveals each one has a different porosity in their grains. The end result: Some woods are tougher to cut than others.
Depending on your saw, you could be looking at powerful metal disc with sharp teeth running at 3,000 to 5,000 RPMs. That sure is scary stuff. For it will make short work of anything you put in its path – a piece of flesh including.
As wood is fed to the circular saw, you will feel the table tremble. One thing you’ll notice is the smaller models will give a lot more noise. Worse, these products will cause greater tremors.
That’s because the wood being cut will give resistance to the process. And this is where you will see performance issues on your table top models. You will meet greater resistance from wood using these product offerings.
Not with a contractor table saw. As contractor saw reviews trumpet their advantages, you will be witness to the power behind these power houses.
And the secret to that comes from their belt-driven powerful induction motors. Those portable table saw you may be eyeing use but universal motors. A lot less powerful, a lot noisier.
You may have saved your money buying something cheap. But if it needs to be replaced every now and then, then you would certainly be at the losing end of the bargain. As you would have to spend more each time.
If you want to get the services of a contractor table saw, but don’t know where to start then read on. Here we’ve rounded up some of the most sought-after contractor table saw to have landed on this side of the planet.
Even better, we’re showing you what makes each one perform superbly. So you can do your due diligence best. And get to a quality contractor saw in to time.
Sawstop CNS175-TGP36 Contractor Saw
Oh, if that price caught your attention, then you know getting a contractor table saw isn’t a joke. On the bright side it also gives you notice that you really have to make sure you get the right one so you don’t waste your precious dollars. But to tell you this Sawstop may be pricey but it could be your best bet if you’re looking for a most reliable saw.
What you get here is precision. Yes, all that mounted saw will give you is total focus. You will be getting great attention to detail. Plus the raw power of course. But don’t fret, your safety is top priority here. That safety system that’s typical of SawStop should give you a clue.
What’s more is that unlike the bigger cabinet saw you have greater mobility options here. You can have a jobsite cart to push everything along or a mobile base to get going. Telling you this one’s a prized catch.
Sawstop CNS175-SFA30 Contractor Saw
Here’s another Sawstop alternative. Well, a little smaller than the first one in price and in dimension. But you have everything you need in a power saw here. Of course, that’s assuming you are not comparing this one with the bigger cabinet saw.
What you have here is the same raw power you’d expect from a contractor table saw. It should be, given the price that’s just a big hefty for many. Then again, you can’t put a price on safety. Which this model parades with ease. And mobility options.
Powermatic 1791230K 64B Table Saw
If you’re looking for a cheap alternative, then this one shouldn’t be top of your list. You’re looking at a top-of-the-line alternative here instead. With top-of-the-line price.
What this model offers is greater assurances on safety. And that’s a major thing. For instance, you need not worry about kickbacks as you have a riving knife take care of that. Put precisely to maintain that needed close blade nearness. Add the blade guard to the equation and you know this powerhouse is a must-have. If you have the money to spare.
Shop Fox W1837 Table saw
Now’s your chance to get a power tool contractor table saw at an affordable price. Yes, this one will give you that. But don’t think this model is a push-over. You have a legit powerhouse here that should get you the power cuttings you need.
For starters, you have a 2-horsepower motor here that should give you all the power you need to get those wood cut with efficiency. And don’t worry about all the dust, you have a 4-inch dust port to get you just what you need. At the price it’s at and the features, you should be not just looking deeply into this. But think of bringing this home.
Delta 36-5052 Tilt Contractor saw
Now, this offering from Delta shouldn’t be left out. And you would be better for it if you spend time looking at its merits. Why? You have a real powerhouse here. For instance, you get to have a tubular stand that gives you greater support. And for real precision, you got a heavy-duty rail system that’s one piece. So you get all the precision you need when you need it most.
Let's Compare the The Mightiest Contractor Table Saw
Detailed Comparison List
Product Name | Prices | Product Dimension | Total Review | Product Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Sawstop CNS175-TGP36 Contractor Saw | 72 x 19.5 x 47 inches | 341.4 pounds | ||
Sawstop CNS175-SFA30 Contractor Saw | 60.8 x 19.5 x 40.6 inches | 263.6 pounds | ||
Powermatic 1791230K 64B Table Saw | 70 x 32 x 34 inches | 414 pounds | ||
Shop Fox W1837 Table saw | 58 x 38 x 36 inches | 260 pounds | ||
Delta 36-5052 Tilt Contractor saw | 40 x 44 x 24 inches | 233 pounds | ||
Dewalt DWE7491RS Jobsite Table Saw | 31 x 24.5 x 31 inches | 110 pounds | ||
Bosch 4100-09 worksite Table Saw | 39 x 29.8 x 21 inches | 124.2 pounds | ||
Makita 2705 Contractor Table saw | 36 x 16 x 32 inches | 82 pounds |
Sawstop CNS175-TGP36 Contractor Saw
Short review
This very first product on our list has earned its spot as the first contractor table saw on this list. With its amazing features this table saw is a genius at its job. Not only does it make it a lot easier for contractors that use it, it also makes it more fun.
That’s why many customers say this is one of the best contractor saws you can use in town. And by just going through customers reviews you can easily tell that this is indeed one of the best in town.
One great feature that so many customers appreciate this table saw for is its mobility. It sure isn’t small in size so carrying it would have been a problem if not for its mobile base. Now you can easily transport this from one job site to another without any problem.
This makes it particularly suitable for you if you do have so many contracts at different locations.
Also, this table saw has a very large cutting table. So you would be able to do a lot of work at the same time using this table saw. This way you wouldn’t have to waste so much time while doing your work.
Similarly, it has a dust collection system. So as you cut through the material with your saw it clears up all the dirt that accumulates on the table. This way you wouldn’t have to stress yourself after you’re done with your work.
One thing though that so many customers have complained about is that it vibrates a lot. So you might tip off loads while working. And this might not be so good if the load that drops ends up injuring you.
Things We Liked
Things We Didn't Like
Sawstop CNS175-SFA30 Contractor Saw
Short review
Next, we have another Sawstop contractor table saw. They are quite similar in features but this particular table saw has its own unique features. So if you think this is just like any other one you’ve come across then you must be mistaken.
Let’s quickly dive into features that make this guy right here very unique.
With its 30” aluminum fence you wouldn’t have a problem operating it. This fence system gives you a smooth operation and at the same time makes your measurement precise.
At least with this you can be sure that the result at the end would be precise and also accurate.
This contractor table saw as well is very versatile. It works well in any environment and still gives the same accurate result. Without doubt this is one of the many reasons why contractors always opt for this.
That’s because they work in different work site and all they need is a table saw that would be able to adjust well in any condition.
Also all thanks to its mobile base you wouldn’t have a problem moving this unit right here. This way you can easily transport it from site to site without any issues.
This as well makes using this table saw less stressful.
But you also have to know that some customers have complained about the wings not being flat. Although not a major problem it can makes your work more stressful.
Things We liked
Things We didn't like
Powermatic 1791230K 64B Table Saw
Short review
Talk of one of the best contractor table saws in town and this would be on that list. No matter how much reviewers try to avoid this table saw it still keeps popping up. That’s because its impact in the industry can’t be overemphasized.
Just from its name you can easily tell that this guy right here is a power house.
When it comes to safety this particular table saw can’t be left out. It’s so good at protecting the user from being injured. How? This table saw has a riving knife that is in close contact with the blade.
And with this it helps prevent kickback action. So when you’re carrying on with your work, the wood you’re trying to divide into pieces wouldn’t be jumping right at your face.
Also, it has a smooth and large table that makes cutting a lot more easier. You would not only have a smooth operation but also a fast one. This way you get to safe up so much time for other jobs at hand.
Similarly, it has a built-in extraction port. This port helps increase the efficiency of dust collection. So you wouldn’t have to clean up the table once you’re done with your work.
At least you would get to safe some energy and use it for other purposes.
Even its amazing features one of the problems you would encounter with this unit is mobility. Transferring this table from saw from place to another isn’t easy.
Things We liked
Things We didn't like
Shop Fox W1837 Table saw
Short review
With its well-structured design you wouldn’t have a problem using this table saw. Its parts are in place to make it a lot easier for you to use. Also with its parts well-arranged you can easily access the parts. And with this you wouldn’t have to stress yourself while working.
Also this table saw has two tires that make it easy for you to transport. You would be able to move this table saw from one place to another with ease. That’s why it’s suitable for you if you are a contractor.
While moving from one job site to another you would be able to transfer this table saw also to the next work site.
Similarly, this unit also has a rip capacity of 30’’ to the right and also 15’’ to the left. This way the blade is able to make deep cuts through the piece of wood. And with this your wok becomes a lot easier than it used to be.
Also, this contractor table saw is also very quiet. So when you’re using this you wouldn’t be disturbed by any disturbing noise. And likewise you wouldn’t be disturbing other people at work.
One thing though that can be very disturbing and stressful is that you would have to adjust this regularly.
Things We liked
Things We didn't like
Delta 36-5052 Tilt Contractor saw
Short review
Mere looking at this contractor table saw you can easily tell that it’s made of top quality materials. Its strong build is indicative of just how good the materials used are. And with this quality material this table saw is able to withstand a lot of stress.
This is the reason why this table saw is suitable for heavy duty jobs. So you can use this table saw on any work site. And it would still function efficiently after you use it for a strenuous job.
Its strong stand is actually one of the reasons why this table can take on heavy duty jobs. This stand is able to withstand so much stress and compression. And at the same time can hold on to a very large weight.
So even when you place a big log of wood on this contactor saw it would still be able to hold on to it. And you would be able to carry out your job with ease without the table dangling due to the weight of the load on it.
Also this table saw has a large on and off switch. So you can easily access this on and off switch. So this way you would be able to use it with ease.
And what’s even better is that this table saw has a blade brake that helps stop the blade within seconds of being put off. So the blade wouldn’t keep running after minutes of being put off. And this would help increase the efficiency of its motor.
That’s why you would always this product on most contractor saw reviews in town.
But some customers have complained about its quality not meeting the standard expected.
Things We liked
Things We didn't like
Dewalt DWE7491RS Jobsite Table Saw
Short review
We have here on our list another Dewalt table saw. This one is also an amazing table saw. It has unique features that you would find really easy to use. And the thing with this table saw is that you would be transport it easily.
Well, that’s all thanks to the rolling stand. You would be able to move this from one job site to another without any problem.
With motor as strong as its you wouldn’t have a problem cutting through any piece of wood. Even hardwood would be a piece of cake for this saw. This 15 amp motor functions well in making the blade move at a really fast speed.
And because the blade moves at a very fast rate it makes your work less stressful. You would be able to cut through the wood easily. And with this you wouldn’t waste so much time on a particular project.
Similarly, it has a rolling stand that makes it easy for you to set up. Before you know it you would be done setting this unit up. And the good thing is that the same applies to breaking it down.
This way you would be able to start your work as soon as possible when you get to the job site.
As well, this stand helps support this table saw. This is why it is able to withstand so much stress and compression and still remain intact. Also this stand allows for you to place heavy pieces of wood on it without it breaking down.
But one problem tough is that the cutting table isn’t well-finished. So it isn’t so durable.
With all these features this still remains one of the best contractor table saw. And that’s why you would find it on every contractor saw review in town.
Things We liked
Things We didn't like
Bosch 4100-09 worksite Table Saw
Short review
You don’t need a third eye to know that this piece right here is a gem. Although it might look really simple on the outside, it does wonders on the inside. This contractor table saw is simply the bomb.
Which is the reasons why so many customers are raving about this table saw right here.
This is one portable table saw. You wouldn’t have a problem transferring it from one job site to another. That’s why so many contractors opt for this table saw for their different contracts.
Well, you can’t blame them. Everyone wants something that is very easy to use. And also something that wouldn’t stress you out so much. That’s exactly what this table saw can offer.
As portable as this table saw is it has a strong motor. And with this strong motor it does wonders. This is why so you would always find this product on every contractor saw review in town.
Things We liked
Things We didn't like
Makita 2705 Contractor Table saw
Short review
This very last product on our list is certainly not the least. In fact you would most likely opt for this contractor saw after you read through its features. With its powerful motor you wouldn’t have a problem cutting through any piece of wood.
Its powerful motor allows for the blade to move at a very fast speed. And with this you wouldn’t have a problem doing your work. Even when doing it you wouldn’t spend so much time on one particular piece of wood.
Also it has features that help reduce kickback action. This way you can remain safe while cutting the wood. It also helps reduce the risk of getting injured while getting injured.
That’s one of the many reasons while this is one of the best contractor table saws in town.
Its cutting table is also very large. So you would be able do a lot of work on this table at once. This helps reduce the time you spend while doing your work. At the same time it makes it less stressful and a lot more interesting.
One thing though is that its fence system isn’t good enough.
Things We liked
Things We didn't like
ADVANTAGES
4 Types of Table Saws and What Makes Each One Rock!
For a serious DIY enthusiast or a dedicated woodworker, the table saw has got to be the centerpiece of creation. Just as Adam and Eve may have created the first humans (Bible), without a reliable table saw all your wishes to get your woodworking done will remain but wishes. Never a reality.
However, there’s a thousand and one ways to skin the cat. For efficiency to get going, you need to find the most suitable table saw for the job. Now, you could be looking at other shops and feels envious about what they got. First order of business though is not to look at what other people have, but to look inside – at what you really need.
To help you with that we’re showing you the 4 types of table saw that will welcome you in any shop – online and otherwise. Being able to know each powerhouse will cut your journey short to getting the right one for your needs. Read on.
1. Portable Table Saw
This very first table saw type is known to be very small when compared to the traditional table saw. That’s actually given with its name. Portable table saws just entered the market not quite long ago. But have gained a lot of recognition among many customers.
They usually have very small sizes and this makes it easy for people to use. Especially for people who move from one job site to another. With this type of table saw you would be able to carry this along with you when going to another work site.
That’s actually because they usually have tires and rolling stands. And this way you wouldn’t have a problem transferring this piece.
Another striking difference is the size of its motor. This table saw is known to have a really small universal motor. That’s actually why it can’t carry out so many heavy duty jobs like a traditional one would do.
Also, its small size warrants for the fact that it is usually very loud and also vibrates a lot. You might be disturbed a lot while using this table saw. Also so many things you place on the cutting table might tip off while working.
One other difference is that its cutting table is usually made of aluminum instead of cast iron. And because of this it isn’t as durable as the table saw that is made with cast iron.
2. Contractor Table Saw
From its name you can easily deduce that this table saw type is to be used by a contractor. And also for people that move from one work site to another. Well, that doesn’t mean any other set of people don’t use this table saw. They actually do.
This table saw is portable enough for you to easily carry from one job site to another. And the thing is that some of its features were improved so as to make it a lot easier for you to carry.
For instance the motor of a contractor hangs off the back of its saw. This way it’s a lot easier to carry.
Also contractor saws are also known to have a straight forward design and also are very affordable. Which is why so many people can still afford to have one at their place of work and at home.
Similarly, their cutting table is usually made of cast iron. Which means that this is a lot more durable than some other table saw types. And at the same time it also lasts a bit longer.
One other advantage of a contractor table saw is that it is usually made of high quality materials. It has a high quality fence system and also a high quality blade.
Its high quality blade helps cut through a piece of wood very fast. And this helps save you a lot of time. And at the same time you wouldn’t have to exert so much force before you can get your work done.
3. Cabinet saws
Cabinet saws are specifically built for professional woodworkers. With a strong build they are a bit stronger than contractor table saws. They are designed to be able to meet the durability and performance of professionals out there.
They are also made of cast iron and steel. That’s why they are more durable and strong. They are able to withstand so much stress and compression. And at the same time last a lot longer than contractor saws.
With their motor at the cabinet base they are a bit quiet than contractor table saws. And with this they don’t disturb you or people around you while working.
Also, they have motors that are stronger than other motors in other saw types. And this motor is able to do a lot of work. It makes the blade work at a very fast speed. And with that you will do be able to do your work very fast.
5. Hybrid Saws
This is like the gap that breaches between the affordable contractor saw and the professional cabinet saw. A hybrid saw combines amazing features of these two and produces a great result.
Sometimes a hybrid saw has the base like structure of a cabinet saw. And also has short legs. So you wouldn’t have a problem carrying it.
Hybrid saws actually have the price of a contractor saw which still makes it very affordable for many people. But what’s even better is that even with this affordable price it is still made of top quality parts.
And these parts are known to be really strong and also last for a very long time.
Pros and Cons of Contractor Table Saws
As a woodworker you are faced with the constant reminder that there are many projects awaiting you. And giving it your best is the only way to stay in this business. But what can make things go wrong? Well, that’s one question most woodworkers know the answer to and if you’re one you would be most probably be spilling out the answer right now.
Well, the answer to that question is your table saw. That’s one reason why so many reasons why woodworkers are so particular in the choices that they make concerning their table saw type.
We’ve actually come up with all you need to know about contractor table saws. In this section we will give you the pros and cons of contractor table saws. With this you wouldn’t be making a mistake when you want to get a table saw.
Pros
Affordable
Of the many type of saws out there in the market contractor saws are known to be the most affordable. With just a few dollars you can have this saw in your home. And the good thing is that it still has quality parts.
So that means it doesn’t compromise its quality for its affordability. Who wouldn’t love something like this? Most people would, including you.
Its affordability is actually one of the main reasons why so many people for it.
Strong motor
Most contractor saws you find out there have a 1 ½ hp motor. That’s actually just about what you need if you are using this saw just as your hobby. This motor power is just about the average power you need for cutting small pieces of wood.
But if on the other hand you aim you cut something larger and a whole lot bigger then you would have to aim for a saw type that is stronger. For example a cabinet saw should be able to do that job.
Electrical
Most contractor saws are wired for 120 volts. And with this you can plug it into any 15 amp power outlet at home or in your place of work. Well this doesn’t apply to all contractor saws. Some are wired with a 220 volts capacity.
This 220 volts capacity is actually a bit better than the 120 volts. Well, this is because with a 220 volts saw you would be able to cut down your power into half. And this way you would be able to reduce your chances of tripping your circuit.
Fences
The traditional fences that were being used on saws before isn’t as efficient and precise as the new ones being made. Actually, the after-market fences are a lot better than the standard fences that come on saw.
Some contractor saws manufacturers actually offer a modified and upgraded fence. And that one is a lot better. So you should get it for your contractor saw. You sure wouldn’t regret it.
Ease of maintenance
Maintaining contractor saws is actually a bit easy. That’s actually excluding degreasing and lubricating. When doing this all you need is a spray. This way you would be able to get to hard to reach places and you would also be able to do a thorough job.
Well you would also have to flip the saw upside down and clean it well. At least you would be able to flip the saw with a contractor saw unlike other saws. And this way it’s a lot easier for you to clean.
Cons
Heavy
Contractor saws are really heavy and weight. And this at times makes it difficult to carry especially if there is no aid in moving it. Its size is also responsible for the vibrations it makes. It makes more vibrations because it has a greater overall mass than a cabinet saw.
And with a lot of vibrations you might not be able to get a perfectly smooth cut.
Its belts are exposed
Here is another disadvantage of a contractor saw. Its belts are usually exposed which doesn’t make it safe for you when using. Someone could just be carelessly walking without knowing that the belts are exposed. And when this happens the person might get injured.
Lack of strong power
Contractor saws sure have a strong motor. But the motor isn’t strong enough to make cuts that are deep enough. Especially when the wood you’re trying to cut is hard wood. This makes it a bit more difficult.
The motor power of contractor saws is mainly for small pieces of wood. And also for cutting other wood types that aren’t hard at all.
Poor dust collection system
Most of the contractor saws you find out there don’t have an upgraded version of the dust collection system. And because of this they so bad at collecting the dust while you work. Most times you would have to clean it up yourself once you’re done.
Some don’t even have a dust collection system at all. And this is why some woodworkers don’t opt for it. Because most times you wouldn’t have the strength to clean up after you’re done with the day’s work.
That’s one great advantage that cabinet table saws have over contractor table saws.
CONCLUSION
A contractor table saw is a treasure find. You can count it as a real blessing for your woodworking shop. But to arrive, you have to start right. Without doing so, you could be putting yourself at a great disadvantage.
There is always a tendency to buy something that’s cheap. That’s human nature. If we can get something for less then we consider it a good buy. That thinking however, may not apply for power tools like a table saw.
Bench-top and all those portable table saws may carry a lighter price tag. And you may be justified in getting them. That’s assuming you’re cutting not that much wood.
As you’re bound to see, these less-powerful saws (as compared to contractor table saws) are prone to churn out a lot more noise. Plus, they’re bound to make your table shake from all the tremors.
It’s really like wood laughing. Laughing at all the resistance.
That’s because these models use but universal motors. Which truly are less powerful compared to the belt-driven induction motors being used contractor table saws.
As most respectable saw reviews will tell you, power means a lot in your woodworking exercise. Wood doesn’t stand a chance with the power of a contractor table saw.
It’s for this reason that we tip our hats to Dewalt DWE7491RS Jobsite Table Saw. A lot of manufacturers can put up a claim on how powerful their product offerings are. But only few can truly get the heart of discerning users.
When experience woodworker-users put their vote of confidence on something, it’s because they’ve used it.
And the Dewalt DWE7491RS Jobsite Table Saw stands out in this regard. It has caught the admiration of the people who’ve used it. And that speaks volumes on what kind of product you have here.
A treasure find. Worth looking into. And most importantly, worth having.