Hey everyone! I'm a young adult guy diving into DIY woodworking—I'm excited about projects like custom storage bins, cutting boards, outdoor furniture, and raised garden beds. I'm on the hunt for budget-friendly miter and table saws that still deliver decent quality and will grow with my skills. Currently, I'm considering some options like the SKIL 10" dual-bevel sliding compound miter saw and the Kobalt 10" sliding compound miter saw, as well as the SKIL 10" job-site/table saw for my table saw needs. My budget is under $300 for each saw, aiming for something beginner-friendly yet reliable. I also want tools that come with solid warranties—most budget brands offer around three years if you register them. I'm looking for real-world feedback on the models I mentioned, suggestions for better options in the sub-$300 tier, brands or specific models to steer clear of, essential accessories for safety and accuracy, and any must-know tips for a beginner. What advice would you have for choosing my first miter and table saw while keeping costs down? Thanks for your help!
3 Answers
I've got the SKIL 10-inch table saw and really love it! For a beginner, it’s solid and gets the job done well. You might also want to check out Ryobi; I’ve heard good things about their tools for newcomers in woodworking.
One thing to keep in mind is that a table saw can cover a lot of the same ground as a miter saw if you set up a decent crosscut sled for it. Consider investing in a better table saw like the Dewalt 7470, which is a go-to jobsite saw for a reason. I'd steer clear of the SKIL models, as their recent quality hasn't been great—think underpowered motors and flimsy fences. Brands like Rigid, Kobalt, and Ryobi are better bets. If you can, spend a bit more on your table saw now and grab the miter saw later; you’ll probably want to upgrade down the line anyway!
Definitely avoid the Craftsman 10" job site table saw—it's a nightmare! The miter slots are all non-standard, which means nothing fits. Make sure whatever table saw you choose has standard 3/4" miter slots and a good fence; that’ll save you so much hassle later on.
Totally agree! Having standard miter slots will make all the difference for using jigs and other accessories.
Yeah, Ryobi's a great choice for beginners! They tend to strike a good balance between quality and affordability.