Upgrading your table saw rip fence will improve the precision and consistency of your table saw. The table saw fence plays a key roll in table saw accuracy. A poorly made table saw fence system demands frequent testing and adjustment, limiting output and the quality of your work.
It Starts With Quality
A high quality table saw fence gives you piece of mind. Look for heavy duty, high quality materials used in construction. The design of the table saw fence should be simple, but flexible. If you can see a the table saw in action, check to see that the rip fence locks securely in place.
Getting Up And Running
Ease of installation is another key factor. A well-designed table saw fence should be easy to install. A table saw fence system should be designed with enough flexibility to fit a wide range of models. Be sure yours is one of them by checking with the manufacturer.
Accuracy Is What You're Paying For
Accurate cuts are the Holy Grail for table saw users. A table saw rip fence should be constructed with an accurate, machined surface. The fence should be made of quality material to make it rigid. Any flex in a table saw fence might result in low quality cuts.
Make Some Adjustments
A quality table saw fence system allows for fine adjustments. Although most table saw users rarely need to make 1/32" adjustments, having that capability when you need it will be a plus. Think about how you'll use your table saw to determine if this is a priority.
Does Size Matter?
Table saw rip fences range in size from 26 to 122 inches. A majority of home table saw projects will only require a 30 inch rip fence. If you want to cut larger material, a 50 inch fence can be a good choice.
When choosing your table saw fence size, don't forget to consider is the size of you shop. A tight space will make the decision for you: Go with a 30 inch rip fence. If you have the room, a 50 inch table saw rip fence allows for plenty of flexibility.
 | The most basic choice when shopping for table saws is whether you prefer a portable model or a stationary, workshop model. |
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As your woodworking skills increase, you may decide to tackle larger or more complex projects. A 10-inch portable table saw provides a great step up from your trusty circular saw. Portable table saws bridge the gap between hand-held circular saws and full sized table saws. |
The most basic choice when shopping for table saws is whether you prefer a portable model or a stationary, workshop model. |
