I'm trying to decide between using a CMT Orange Dado stack with my 10" Metabo table saw or opting for my Bosch 1617EVSPK router for cutting dado slots. I've heard that many jobsite saws only allow for 8" dado blades, which I can get. Is it standard to use an 8" dado on a 10" saw? If so, would I need to upgrade my saw for a larger capacity? Also, for routing, how difficult is it to achieve accurate dado slots compared to cutting them on a table saw? Any tips before I make a purchase would be appreciated!
1 Answer
Yes, using an 8" dado blade on a 10" table saw is perfectly normal, and actually quite common. Many jobsite saws even specify only using 6" to 8" dado stacks. Usually, 8" is all you need as it can handle most projects without requiring more depth. As for using a router, if you have a router table and guides, you can achieve highly accurate cuts. Just keep in mind that routing can take a bit longer since it may involve multiple passes. Plus, make sure you have quality bits since dull ones can result in messy cuts. Overall, dado stacks are powerful but routers are much more versatile for various tasks.
I get where you're coming from! It sounds like you might need to weigh your options carefully. If you're more comfortable with your router for now, it might be a good starting point before diving into dado stacks.