Hey all! I've been into woodworking for about a year now and I currently use a budget-friendly Dewalt saw that I got for around $299. Since I'm serious about advancing my skills, I'm ready to invest in a decent cabinet table saw, especially since I've been looking at used options but haven't had any luck on Craigslist. I'm open to buying new as well since I take good care of my tools. I'm particularly interested in brands like Harvey, Laguna, and Jet, but I've noticed that Harvey seems to offer some great features for the price. What do you all think? Any suggestions or insights would be appreciated!
6 Answers
If you can stretch your budget to about $3000, I’d say go for a SawStop. Buy once, cry once! I bought a Shop Fox contractor saw and while it gets the job done, I wish I had just waited to invest in a higher-end saw from the get-go. I'll probably end up doing that soon anyways.
I’m with the others on SawStop. If you're set on a big saw, consider Delta or Jet too, though they lack those safety features. And don’t skimp on the fence; a good one is just as crucial as the saw itself. Remember, table saws tilt in different directions, which can affect your setup if you're using different brands.
That Harvey saw looks like it’s got a nice fence! Personally, I’m not looking for a table saw right now, but if I were, I’d consider Powermatic too—maybe even a used SawStop. Laguna has never appealed to me, but who knows?
For just under your budget, a vintage Delta Unisaw could be a fantastic find! They're built to last and can come with excellent aftermarket fences. Just remember, while 1.5hp is fine for most, if you want that extra power, a 3hp unit is great for more demanding cuts—though don't go cutting cinderblocks as a joke, that's just messy!
I've gotta recommend SawStop. It's a bit pricier but worth it for the safety features—definitely cheaper than a trip to the ER! New cabinet saws tend to exceed your budget, but you might get lucky finding a used one.
I get that, but have you considered something like a sliding table saw? Brands like SCM Minimax offer excellent safety and functionality in that price range.
Definitely check out SawStop; they have a great saw in your price range that'll keep you safe while working. Delta could also be an option to explore. Just make sure to invest in a high-quality fence—it's a key part of the setup, so read up on reviews before making a purchase!
Honestly surprised SawStop didn't come up in your initial thoughts. It’s a solid choice with great safety features.