If you are a professional woodworker or a DIY enthusiast, then you know that the best table saw for handling plywood is an absolute necessity. Not all table saws are created equal, and choosing the wrong one can lead to inefficient cuts, wasted materials, and even dangerous working conditions. In this article, we will explore the top-rated table saws for cutting plywood, so you can make an informed decision when it comes to purchasing the best tool for your needs.
Cutting plywood can be difficult without the right tools. Many table saws struggle to handle the size and thickness of plywood, leading to uneven or incomplete cuts.
This can be frustrating for DIY enthusiasts, carpenters, and woodworkers. Not only does it waste time and materials, but it can also be dangerous if the cuts are not accurate, leading to potential injury or damage to the saw.
That is why finding the best table saw for handling plywood is essential. Look for a saw with a powerful motor, sturdy construction, and a large cutting capacity. Features such as adjustable blade height and angle, dust collection, and safety features can also make a big difference in your overall experience. With the right table saw, you can easily and safely cut through even the thickest sheets of plywood for your next project.
The Best Table Saw For Handling Plywood on the Market Right Now
Looking for a reliable table saw that can handle plywood like a pro? Check out our roundup of the best table saws on the market designed to handle even the thickest plywood with ease.
1. Sawstop Pcs31230-Tgp252
Product Overview:
The SawStop PCS31230-TGP252 is a 3 horsepower cabinet saw with a 52-inch Professional T-Glide fence system. It is designed to deliver high accuracy and precision, making it the perfect solution for professional woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts. The saw is operated effortlessly with easy access to the on/off switch and blade elevation control. With its ample cutting capacity, up to 52 inches, the SawStop PCS31230-TGP252 can handle large and small wood projects with ease.
Unique Features
1. Safety Feature – This table saw uses an advanced safety system that helps prevent accidents. The blade can detect a human finger and will come to an immediate stop, lowering the risk of serious injury.
2. High-Quality Build – The SawStop PCS31230-TGP252 is made with a quality stainless steel construction that prolongs the lifespan of the saw. Its sturdy structure ensures that it can handle even the toughest of jobs with ease.
3. Efficient T-Glide Fence System – The T-Glide fence system ensures that every cut is precise and accurate. It provides a smooth and easy glide, which reduces the chances of mistakes and faulty cuts.
Pros
1. Advanced Safety Feature – This is the most important feature that sets the SawStop PCS31230-TGP252 apart from other table saws in the market. It ensures that you are always safe while operating the saw, allowing you to focus on your project.
2. High Build Quality – The saw’s build ensures longevity, making it a great investment for any craftsman.
3. Efficient T-Glide Fence System – This feature is designed to make accurate and precise cuts, making it easier to get the job done well and with minimal errors.
Cons
1. Expensive – The SawStop PCS31230-TGP252 is pricier than most table saws on the market.
2. Heavy – The saw’s weight may be a disadvantage for those who need to move it around regularly.
In conclusion, the SawStop PCS31230-TGP252 is a high-quality table saw, making it an excellent option for those looking to tackle woodworking projects. With its advanced safety features, quality build, and efficient T-Glide fence system, this saw is perfect for both professional woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts. However, it comes with a higher price tag and is relatively heavy. Despite these drawbacks, the SawStop PCS31230-TGP252 remains a top-rated table saw in the market today.
2. Powermatic Pm1000
Unique Features
– Accu-Fence system: This innovative fence system ensures precise cuts every time. It can be adjusted easily and locks down securely to maintain accuracy.
– Blade guard assembly: The PM1000’s blade guard assembly is designed to provide maximum visibility while keeping your hands safely away from the blade.
– Integrated mobile base: With its built-in mobile base, the PM1000 can be easily moved around your workshop as needed.
Pros
– Powerful motor: The PM1000’s 1.75-horsepower motor provides plenty of cutting power.
– Precise cuts: The Accu-Fence system and blade guard assembly make it easy to achieve precise cuts.
– Large table: The PM1000’s cast iron table provides ample space for large cutting projects.
– Convenient mobile base: The built-in mobile base makes it easy to move the saw around your workshop as needed.
– Durable construction: The PM1000 is built to last, with a rugged construction that can handle even the toughest cutting tasks.
Cons
– Expensive: The PM1000 is a high-end saw, and its price reflects that.
– Heavy: The cast iron construction of the PM1000 makes it a heavy saw, which can be a challenge when moving it around your workshop.
3. Dewalt Dwe7491Rs
Unique Features
– Rolling Stand: One unique feature of the DEWALT DWE7491RS is its rolling stand. The stand is sturdy and easy to set up, making it a great option for professionals who move from job site to job site.
– Dust Collection Port: Another unique feature of this model is the 2-1/2 inch dust collection port. The port is located at the back of the saw and helps to keep your work area clean by capturing up to 90% of dust generated while cutting.
– Digital Feedback: The DEWALT DWE7491RS combines its electronic feedback system with the soft-start motor to ensure that the blade maintains a constant speed under load, helping to improve the accuracy and quality of your cuts.
– Storage Space: This saw comes with ample storage space for accessories, such as the miter gauge, blade guard, and fence.
Pros
– Powerful motor that delivers clean and accurate cuts with minimal effort.
– The rolling stand makes it easy to transport the saw from one job site to another.
– The fence system is easy to adjust and provides excellent ripping capacity.
– The dust collection port helps to keep your work area clean and reduces the amount of time you spend cleaning up after each job.
– The tool comes with a 3-year warranty, showing that the manufacturer stands behind the quality of their product.
Cons
– The blade guard can be challenging to install and remove, especially for beginners.
– The miter gauge may not be as accurate as more expensive models.
– Some users have reported issues with the stand’s locking mechanism not staying securely locked, which can be a safety concern.
Overall, the DEWALT DWE7491RS is an excellent contractor saw that provides power, accuracy, and versatility. If you’re a professional or a serious DIY enthusiast who values quality, portability, and dust collection, this saw is definitely worth considering.
4. Grizzly G0690
Unique Features
– Triple-belt drive system: Provides consistent power to the blade, reducing vibration and improving accuracy.
– T-Square fence system: Allows for precise cutting measurements and allows for quick adjustments.
– Riving knife and blade guard: Improves safety by preventing kickback and protecting hands from the blade.
– Quick-release blade guard and riving knife: Makes it easy to change out blades and remove the riving knife when not needed.
Pros
– Powerful motor and heavy-duty construction allow for precision and durability.
– T-Square fence system provides accurate measurements and quick adjustments.
– Riving knife and blade guard improve safety and prevent kickback.
– Quick-release blade guard and riving knife make blade changes easy and efficient.
– Low vibration and noise levels make for a comfortable working environment.
Cons
– The cabinet table saw is heavy and may require a team to move it around.
– Some users have reported difficulty with the dust collection system, which can lead to sawdust buildup.
– The price point of the Grizzly G0690 may be higher than some other table saws on the market.
5. Shop Fox W1819
Unique Features
– Heavy-duty cast-iron trunnions provide superior stability and reduce vibrations for smoother operation.
– Quick-release blade guard and riving knife make it easy to change blades or perform maintenance.
– Dual-position rip fence can handle both large and small materials, and has an easy-to-read scale for precise results.
– Magnetic switch with thermal overload protection ensures safety and prevents damage to the motor.
– T-style fence system with an adjustable angle slider allows for accurate and consistent cuts.
Pros
– The Shop Fox W1819 is a powerful and reliable saw that is ideal for both professional and amateur woodworkers.
– The large table surface and advanced fence system make it easy to work with large and small materials alike.
– The quick-release blade guard and riving knife simplify blade changes, while the magnetic switch and thermal overload protection provide safety and peace of mind.
– The saw has an excellent dust collection port that keeps sawdust and debris from accumulating on the table and in the air.
Cons
– The Shop Fox W1819 is a heavy machine that can be difficult to move and reposition.
– The cost of this saw can be prohibitive for some buyers, especially those who do not require the level of power and precision it provides.
– The saw is large and may not fit into smaller shops or workspaces.
6. Skilsaw Spt99-11
The SKILSAW SPT99-11 is a top-of-the-line table saw that boasts impressive power and precision. Designed for the serious DIYer or professional contractor, this saw is built tough and can easily handle even the toughest materials. The saw is also easy to set up and use, making it a popular choice for those who want a high-quality tool without any fuss.
Unique Features
• Robust 15-amp motor delivers powerful performance effortlessly.
• Worm drive gearing provides maximum torque and durability.
• 30-inch rip capacity enables you to work with larger pieces with ease.
• Stable and smooth saw operation due to rack and pinion fence system.
• On-board storage for all accessories, enabling you to keep everything in the same place.
Pros
• The saw delivers excellent cutting accuracy and precision.
• The saw is easy to set up and operate, making it ideal for beginners or those who are new to power tools.
• The saw is durable and built to last, regardless of how often it is used.
• The saw has a larger rip capacity that enables you to work with larger pieces, making it versatile.
• The saw is relatively lightweight and portable, making it easy to move around from one job site to another.
Cons
• The saw is a bit pricey compared to some other models available in the market.
• The saw requires regular maintenance to keep it performing optimally.
• The saw does not have a dust port, making cleaning up after use a bit challenging.
The SKILSAW SPT99-11 is an excellent table saw for those who want to experience power and accuracy in their work. Although it may not be the most affordable saw on the market, the combination of features it offers, such as the robust motor and stable fence system, make it a great investment that offers excellent value for money. However, its downside is that it requires regular maintenance to perform optimally, and there is no dust port. All in all, the SKILSAW SPT99-11 is a great choice for anyone who takes their woodworking projects seriously.
7. Bosch 4100-09
With a powerful 15-amp motor, the Bosch 4100-09 can easily cut through thick and dense wood with ease. The saw’s 10-inch blade delivers precise and clean cuts, and the tool’s advanced features such as the SquareLock Rip Fence ensures accuracy and consistency.
The Bosch 4100-09 also comes equipped with a range of features that improve user safety and convenience. The Smart Guard System, for instance, helps prevent any accidental contact with the blade while making sure the user has a clear view of the cutting line.
Unique Features:
The SquareLock Rip Fence on the Bosch 4100-09 is designed for maximum accuracy and is easy to adjust. The fence is located just next to the blade and makes sure that the wood stays in place during the cut, hence making it a reliable tool for woodworkers.
The Gravity-Rise Stand is an innovative feature of the Bosch 4100-09. It allows for quick and easy setup and fold-down of the saw without the need for any additional tools. Its foldable design makes it easy to store and transport the saw from one worksite to another.
The Bosch 4100-09 is entirely portable, meaning it is compact and lightweight, therefore, making it easy to move around your workshop, home, or construction site.
Pros:
The Bosch 4100-09 is equipped with a 15-amp motor. This makes the saw powerful enough to tackle a wide range of cutting tasks.
Thanks to features like the SquareLock Rip Fence and the Smart Guard System, the Bosch 4100-09 delivers consistent and precise cuts with ease.
The saw is easy to set up, adjust, and use, thanks to its intuitive controls and features like the Gravity-Rise Stand.
Cons:
The Bosch 4100-09 is a high-quality saw with a range of advanced features, which means it comes with a significant price tag.
Despite being a portable saw, the Bosch 4100-09 is still relatively heavy, making it challenging to move around if you need frequent adjustments.
In conclusion, the Bosch 4100-09 is an excellent choice for any DIY enthusiast or professional woodworker looking for a reliable, accurate, and efficient table saw that provides consistent and precise cuts. With its powerful motor, advanced features, and unique benefits such as the Gravity-Rise Stand, this saw is a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about their woodworking projects.
8. Delta 36-L552
– Dual-Field Motor: The Delta 36-L552 comes equipped with a powerful dual-field motor that delivers unparalleled cutting performance and improved durability.
– BIESEMEYER Fence System: This saw features an advanced BIESEMEYER fence system that allows you to make precise cuts with ease, thanks to its sturdy construction and convenient adjustments.
– Easy One-Handed Bevel Adjustments: The saw’s one-handed bevel adjustment system lets you effortlessly make precise cuts at any angle, without the need for complex adjustments.
– Large Precision-Cast Tabletop: With a large cast-iron tabletop, the Delta 36-L552 provides superior stability and accuracy, even when working with large workpieces.
– Excellent Dust Collection: The saw features a highly efficient dust collection system that ensures a cleaner, healthier working environment.
– Solid Construction: The Delta 36-L552 is built to last, with its rugged construction and solid frame ensuring reliable performance over time.
– Accurate Rip Fence: The saw comes equipped with a highly accurate rip fence that lets you make precise cuts with ease.
– Expensive: The Delta 36-L552 is a high-end table saw that may be out of reach for some buyers on a tight budget.
– Heavy and Bulky: Some users may find the saw’s large size and considerable weight a hindrance, especially if they need to move it around frequently.
In conclusion, the Delta 36-L552 is an exceptional table saw that offers advanced features and superior performance. Though it may be pricey for some buyers, its high-quality construction, accurate cuts, and efficient dust collection make it a smart investment for any woodworking enthusiast looking for a durable and reliable saw.
Buying Guide for Best Table Saw For Handling Plywood
Looking for a table saw that can handle plywood with ease? Check out our buying guide for expert advice and recommendations. From blade size to rip capacity, we’ve got you covered. Find the perfect table saw for your woodworking projects today.
Powerful Motor
A powerful motor is essential when purchasing a table saw for handling plywood because plywood is a heavy and dense material. A weak motor will struggle to cut through it, resulting in uneven and jagged edges. This can be dangerous because it can cause the wood to kickback or bind in the saw, leading to potential injuries. A powerful motor ensures a smooth and efficient cut, reducing the risk of accidents and increasing the precision of the cuts. It also allows the saw to handle larger pieces of plywood without bogging down, making it easier and faster to complete projects.
In summary, choosing a table saw with a powerful motor is crucial when working with plywood. It ensures the safety and accuracy of your cuts, prevents the saw from bogging down or binding, and makes your workflow more efficient. Investing in a high-quality table saw with a strong motor will be a wise decision in the long run, as it will save you time and effort while producing consistent, high-quality cuts.
Variable Speed Control
When purchasing a table saw for handling plywood, it is essential to look for variable speed control. This feature enables the saw to adjust its cutting speed as per the thickness and hardness of the plywood. With variable speed control, you can reduce the speed for cutting through dense, hardwood plywood, preventing blade overheating and enhancing cut quality. Moreover, lower speed reduces the likelihood of blade wobbling or bending, which can cause uneven cuts, often leading to material wastage.
Another reason why variable speed control is crucial for cutting plywood is that it helps you manage the saw’s power use. Most table saws consume a lot of energy, and the blades can quickly wear out due to overheating or overuse. By adjusting the saw’s cutting speed, you can control the power input, reducing energy wastage and extending blade life. Furthermore, when working with fine or soft plywood, it is crucial to avoid over-speeding the blades. Variable speed control ensures that you work at a safe and appropriate speed while achieving a clean, smooth cut every time.
Comfortable Handle Grip
A comfortable handle grip is essential when purchasing a table saw for handling plywood. Plywood can be heavy and unwieldy, and having a comfortable grip on the saw will help prevent hand fatigue and injuries. A comfortable grip will also allow you to maintain better control of the saw, making it easier to cut accurately and safely.
In addition to preventing hand fatigue and injuries, a comfortable handle grip on a table saw for handling plywood increases productivity. When working on large projects, such as building cabinets or shelves, having a comfortable grip will allow you to work for longer periods without experiencing discomfort or pain. This means you can complete your projects faster and with greater precision, making you more efficient and effective in your work.
Dust Collection System
1. A dust collection system is crucial when working with a table saw for handling plywood because it helps to maintain a clean work environment. Sawdust and debris can accumulate quickly while cutting plywood, making it difficult to work efficiently and safely. Dust collection systems can remove the sawdust and debris, keeping the work area clean and preventing respiratory problems caused by inhaling sawdust.
2. Another reason to look for a dust collection system when purchasing a table saw for handling plywood is that it can extend the lifespan of your tools. Sawdust can get inside the motor and gears of your table saw, causing it to malfunction or wear out more quickly. Investing in a dust collection system will help prevent this and ensure that your tools last longer, saving you money in the long run.
Belt Tracking Adjustment
Belt tracking adjustment is an essential factor to consider when purchasing a table saw for handling plywood. This feature controls the movement and accuracy of the saw blade, ensuring it runs straight and true. It helps prevent the blade from deflecting or wobbling when cutting through dense materials like plywood. Therefore, checking for belt tracking adjustment when buying a table saw ensures that you have the capability to adjust and maintain the blade’s position, making accurate and clean cuts on plywood and improving the efficiency of your work.
Furthermore, Belt tracking adjustment contributes to a longer lifespan of the table saw itself. If blades are not aligned correctly, they’ll start to wear down more quickly, resulting in higher costs over time. Properly adjusted blades take less energy to drive and have less resistance; this translates to less wear and tear on the machine, endowing the saw with longevity. Consequently, when buying a table saw for handling plywood, look for one with a belt tracking adjustment mechanism to ensure the structural integrity and long-term usefulness of the machine.
Belt Tension Adjustment
Belt tension adjustment is a crucial consideration when purchasing a table saw for handling plywood. The belt tension on a table saw controls the speed of the blade, affecting both the quality and safety of the cut. If the belt is too tight, it can strain the motor, leading to potentially dangerous overheating. On the other hand, if the belt is too loose, it will reduce the accuracy and quality of the cut, leading to wastage of precious material. Therefore, having an adjustable belt tension mechanism on the table saw is essential for precision cutting and ensuring that the machine operates smoothly without any risks.
In conclusion, when looking to purchase a table saw for handling plywood, make sure it has an adjustable belt tension mechanism. It is a necessary feature that not only leads to better quality cuts but also ensures the safety and longevity of the machine. With this feature, you can attain precision cutting with ease, and the table saw will operate flawlessly, giving you peace of mind knowing that you are using a high-quality tool.
Belt Size
When purchasing a table saw for handling plywood, it’s essential to make sure you look for the correct belt size. The belt’s size determines the saw’s cutting power, and if it’s too small, it can quickly overheat and break. Additionally, if the belt size is too small, the saw’s cutting rate will also be slower, which will lead to less efficiency and more idle time. Therefore, it’s essential to look for the correct belt size to ensure you get the best performance and productivity from your table saw when handling plywood.
Another reason why it’s crucial to look for the right belt size when purchasing a table saw is for safety reasons. If the belt size is too small, it can slip off the pulley, causing the blade to come to a sudden stop, which can be dangerous. Also, if the belt size is too large, it can cause the saw to vibrate violently, making it hard to control, and ultimately putting you at risk of injury. Therefore, it’s essential to pay attention to the correct belt size to ensure the saw operates safely and efficiently when handling large and heavy sheets of plywood.
Durability
Durability is an essential factor to consider when purchasing a table saw for handling plywood. Plywood is a durable, rigid material that exerts pressure on saw blades, and using an inferior saw can lead to blades becoming dull and bent or broken within a short time. A durable table saw can withstand these pressures and ensure that the machine’s components remain intact and operational for longer periods. Additionally, a durable saw allows the user to make more extended, precise, and cleaner cuts, which are important when working on a large project such as constructing furniture or building a house.
In conclusion, investing in a durable table saw is a wise decision for individuals looking to handle plywood. The material’s rigidity and toughness require a saw with the capacity to endure the pressure that it exerts on saw blades. A durable saw, therefore, ensures that the user can accomplish more in less time, with less hassle, and with greater precision. This is especially important for those working on a commercial scale or on bigger projects such as those in the construction industry.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the SawStop PCS31230-TGP252 is truly the best table saw for handling plywood. With its advanced safety features, impressive power, and precision cutting capabilities, it’s no wonder that it’s highly sought after by woodworking professionals and enthusiasts alike. Additionally, the Powermatic PM1000 offers a worthy alternative for those seeking a high-quality saw that’s still more affordable than the top-ranked model. Regardless of which option you choose, be sure to refer to our buying guide for insights on what to look for in the best table saw for handling plywood. With the right tool at your disposal, you’ll be able to take on any woodworking project with ease and confidence.
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