Hey everyone! I'm considering picking up a Craftsman table saw that I found on Craigslist. I read an old forum post that mentioned this model isn't great mainly because it features an aluminum table. Can anyone explain why aluminum is often seen as a bad material for table saws? I'm just trying to figure out if this is a worthwhile purchase. Thanks in advance for your insights!
3 Answers
Aluminum table saws can definitely have some downsides compared to traditional cast iron ones. Cast iron is heavier and really helps reduce vibrations, which makes for a steadier cutting surface and cleaner cuts overall. Aluminum's lighter, which is great if you need to move the saw around, but it doesn't dampen the vibrations as well, so it might not be the best choice for a stationary setup. If you’re setting it up in your basement shop and want something stable, I’d look for a cast iron model instead!
Yeah, aluminum tables can be prone to deflection and denting more than cast iron. If you're planning to use it a lot, you might find that cheaper aluminum saws require a fair bit of maintenance to keep things working smoothly. The more affordable tools often aren't as reliable or accurate, so if you can manage it, a cast iron saw might serve you better in the long run!
One thing to keep in mind with aluminum tables is that they're usually not as flat as cast iron ones. This might not matter for basic cuts, but if you're into more precise joinery work, it could become a hassle. They’re just not as durable either. If the price is right and it fits your current needs, it could work for now, but just know the limitations!