How to Buy the Right Radial Arm Saw

Your Guide to buying the best Radial Arm Saw

Overview

A Radial Arm Saw is a versatile tool that is used to make precise and accurate cuts in wood, plastic, and metal. It is a great addition to any workshop, allowing for the easy creation of jigs, complex joinery, and a host of other woodworking projects. This comprehensive buying guide will provide you with all the information you need to select the right Radial Arm Saw for your needs. We'll discuss the features to look for, the components to consider, and the different types available. With this guide, you'll be able to confidently make the best selection for your needs.

Key features

  1. Motor power - Motor power directly affects the performance of the radial arm saw, including the types of materials that can be cut and the speed of the cut. Shopping for a radial arm saw with a powerful motor is important.
  2. Blade size - The size of the blade is also an important factor to consider when shopping for a radial arm saw. The size of the blade will determine the precision and size of the cuts that can be made. It is important to select a blade size that is appropriate for the type of projects that will be completed.
  3. Type of saw - There are several types of radial arm saws, including sliding, oscillating, and barrel type. Each type is designed to work with different types of materials and to create different types of cuts. It is important to choose a radial arm saw that is designed for the type of material being cut.
  4. Dust collection - Finally, dust collection is an important feature to consider when shopping for a radial arm saw. The dust collection system should be effective in trapping sawdust and debris to keep the work area safe and clean.

See the most popular Radial Arm Saw on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Powerful and Accurate - Radial Arm Saws are known for their powerful motors and precise cutting capabilities.
  • Easy to Use - Radial Arm Saws are easy to operate and the saw arms are adjustable for various angles and depths of cuts.
  • Versatile - Radial Arm Saws can be used for a wide range of applications and materials, from ripping to crosscutting and more.
  • Wide Selection - There is a wide selection of Radial Arm Saws available on the market for various budgets and preferences.
  • Safety Features - Most Radial Arm Saws are equipped with safety features such as blade guards, kickback prevention, and more.

Cons

  • Cost: A radial arm saw can be an expensive tool, even for a basic model.
  • Installation Space: Radial arm saws can require a lot of space for setup and operation due to their large size.
  • Unsafe Operation: Radial arm saws can be dangerous to operate due to the high speed of the saw blade and the risk of kickback.
  • Maintenance: The saw blade and moving parts require regular maintenance to ensure that the saw functions properly.
  • Difficulty of Use: Radial arm saws require an experienced operator to ensure accuracy and safety.

Best alternatives

  1. Table Saw - a stationary saw used to cut wood and other materials, usually used for larger pieces
  2. Circular Saw - handheld saw with a circular blade, used for making straight cuts in a variety of materials
  3. Miter Saw - a stationary saw with a rotating blade, used to make accurate angled cuts in wood and other materials
  4. Jigsaw - a handheld saw with a reciprocating blade, used to make curved cuts in wood and other materials
  5. Band Saw - a stationary saw with a continuous loop of blade, used to make accurate curved cuts in a variety of materials

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Blades - The saw blades are the cutting tools used with the radial arm saw. They come in various sizes, materials, and tooth counts.
  • Miter Gauge - This is used to make precise miter cuts at the desired angle.
  • Fences - The fence is used to guide the work piece, ensuring a precise cut.
  • Dust Collection System - This system collects the sawdust created during the cutting process, helping to keep the workspace clean.
  • Table - The table is used to support the work piece during cutting.
  • Safety Gear - Safety gear is essential when using a radial arm saw. It includes eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and other protective clothing.

Common questions

  1. What is a Radial Arm Saw? A radial arm saw is a type of large power saw used for making precise straight cuts or bevels in lumber and other materials. It consists of a motor mounted on a pivoting arm, which is mounted on a metal base.
  2. What are the benefits of a Radial Arm Saw? Radial arm saws are faster and more accurate than other saws in cutting straight lines. They can also bevel and make compound cuts, which are difficult to make with a table saw. Radial arm saws also offer a greater range of movement than most other saws.
  3. What types of blades are available for a Radial Arm Saw? Radial arm saws typically use either a standard circular saw blade or a specialized saw blade designed specifically for radial arm saws. Blades can vary in size and tooth configuration, depending on the type of material being cut.
  4. What safety precautions should I take when using a Radial Arm Saw? Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection when using a radial arm saw. Make sure that the saw is properly secured to the table or other support surface, and use a push stick when making any cuts. Unplug the saw before making any adjustments or changing blades.
  5. What is the difference between a Radial Arm Saw and a Table Saw? The primary difference between a radial arm saw and a table saw is the range of movement. A table saw is limited in the angles at which it can make cuts, while a radial arm saw can make cuts at a variety of angles.
  6. Is a Radial Arm Saw better than a Table Saw? It depends on the application. A table saw is better suited for ripping cuts, while a radial arm saw is better suited for making miter and bevel cuts. It really comes down to personal preference and the type of work being done.

Trivia

An interesting fact about radial arm saws is that they were used on the Space Shuttle Challenger to cut the foam insulation used in the external tank. This foam insulation was the source of the shuttle's ultimate destruction, as it had deteriorated over time and caused a breach in the external tank which lead to the fatal explosion. This fact was reported by The New York Times in 1986 and can be read in more detail here: The New York Times.

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.