Hey everyone! I'm new to woodworking and just started building small projects to sell online. I currently own some basic tools like a circular saw, drill, and level. My mom is willing to help me out by giving me a $300 budget for a table saw. I'm thinking a job site saw would suit my needs best, but I'm feeling a bit lost with all the brand and feature options. I'd love to hear about your experiences and get some recommendations!
4 Answers
Back in the day, folks talked about the Craftsman 113 from the 70s being the best used table saw around. I had one that served me well for nearly 10 years. You can usually grab those for pretty cheap, and with a little tuning, they can work wonders!
Have you checked the used market around you? You can often find a much better saw for your budget if you look for used options. If you have the storage space, a contractor saw might be a nicer option than a job site saw. It’s worth exploring what’s available!
With that budget, you might be limited but consider looking into store brands like Ryobi or Harbor Freight. They make decent tools for beginners, especially if you’re just starting out.
I personally use a DeWalt job site saw, and it’s been fantastic for my smaller projects. It’s a bit above your budget if buying new, but if you can find one used, I’d definitely recommend it! The rack and pinion fence is a really nice feature that makes cutting more accurate.
I’m in North East Ohio and the market for contractor saws is decent, but I haven't spotted any real gems lately.