Hey there! I've recently started woodworking and it's been a great adventure. I've been making dice boxes and various game accessories, along with cutting boards for my friends and family. Since my workspace is limited to the back deck, I've mostly been using hand tools. Now that there are some sales for the 4th of July, I'm thinking about getting either a miter saw or a small SawStop table saw. I've read a lot about how great table saws are, but for someone planning to do a lot of miter cuts for small boxes, would the table saw really be the best option?
3 Answers
As a beginner myself, I totally lean towards getting a table saw first. It gives you the flexibility to do so much more, like dados and rabbits, and you can always make a miter sled or get a decent miter gauge later on. A good miter saw is handy too, but start with the table saw for all-around versatility!
Definitely go for the table saw! It's awesome for precision cuts, especially with a good crosscut sled or miter jig. You can get much more accurate miters that way compared to a miter saw. Plus, with the table saw, you’ll have the option to create stop blocks for repeatability, which is super useful. Do check out some jigs on YouTube; I recommend 3x3 Custom’s jigs for great ideas. They'll really level up your game!
This is awesome, thank you!
Absolutely, build a jig! They might take some time upfront, but they’ll pay off with consistent results. Miter saws have their place, but for small boxes, the table saw is a champ!
For making small boxes, I'm all about the table saw! You can't safely rip wood on a miter saw, plus, I've found both tools have their use. For small miters, a compact miter saw like the Milwaukee 18 volt is really great, but for dados and dimensioning, my table saw is essential. Can't forget my must-haves: a three-inch square, digital calipers, precision glue bottle, and a good pencil for markings!
Awesome, thanks for the reply! I'll look into the Milwaukee.
X-Acto knife and a steel ruler, dude.