I'm in the market for a table saw specifically for ripping, as I'm getting a request for 16-foot box beams. I usually run a sawmill, but I'm curious about whether I should invest in the Grizzly 1023SL that's up for sale at $1000. Is that a fair price? Also, would it be better to get a shaper and use a 45-degree chamfer bit instead? I want to ensure the corners on the boards align perfectly.
4 Answers
I’ve recently switched to a track saw and it's been a game changer! It handles any crown in your wood really well and makes those long rips so much easier. Just trim the crown, and you'll have stable points for marking your cuts!
Honestly, the key to perfect miters is having square stock. With miter cuts, consistency in thickness is crucial, so make sure to joint and plane your lumber well. Almost any table saw can handle a 45-degree cut, but using feather boards and power feeders can help a lot too! Routers and shapers come with their own set of challenges.
I've made similar beams, although shorter at 10 feet, and they turned out great! I recommend using a 45-degree lock miter bit on a router table; it makes assembly so much easier! Check out this link for what I mean: 45° Lock Miter Bits.
If precision isn’t a huge issue for you, a bandsaw might be a better choice since it tends to bind less. But if you're set on getting a table saw, I suggest looking for something better than a Grizzly; they're not the best quality. Brands like Powermatic, Delta, or Jet are worth checking out, usually just a bit more expensive.
Totally agree! A lock miter setup is the way to go. If you can afford it, getting a shaper with a power feed and a lock miter cutter will simplify the process even more.