Table Saws

About Table Saws

Table saws are essential workshop tools designed for cutting timber and sheet materials with exceptional accuracy and repeatability. Featuring a circular saw blade mounted on an arbor beneath a flat table surface, these machines excel at both ripping along the grain and cross-cutting across it. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of table saws from leading manufacturers including Bosch Professional, Makita, DeWalt, Festool, and Einhell, suitable for professional tradespeople and serious DIY enthusiasts alike.

Modern table saws are available in various configurations, from compact 210mm benchtop models ideal for site work to larger 315mm contractor saws for permanent workshop installations. Whilst traditionally powered by 240v mains electricity, cordless options are now available using battery systems such as DeWalt's FLEXVOLT technology, offering genuine portability without compromising performance. Some models, known as flipover saws or combo saws, incorporate mitre saw functionality for added versatility.

Applications

Table saws are indispensable tools for numerous trades and applications:

• Carpenters and joiners – cutting timber to precise dimensions for furniture making, cabinetry, and structural carpentry
• Shop fitters and kitchen fitters – breaking down sheet materials and cutting worktops
• Construction professionals – ripping timber for framing, flooring, and general building work
• Shopfitting and exhibition contractors – creating custom displays and fixtures
• Maintenance teams – general workshop cutting tasks requiring accuracy
• Serious DIY enthusiasts – home renovations, garden projects, and woodworking hobbies

Choosing The Right Table Saws

When selecting a table saw from MyToolShed.co.uk, consider these key factors:

Blade diameter: Common sizes include 210mm, 216mm, 250mm, and 254mm. Larger blades offer greater cutting depth but require more space and power.

Power source: Choose between 240v corded models for workshop use or cordless options for site work. Battery-powered saws like the DeWalt FLEXVOLT range offer excellent portability.

Portability requirements: Benchtop models are lighter and more portable, whilst contractor saws with stands provide stability. Many models are compatible with dedicated wheeled stands for enhanced mobility.

Rip capacity: This determines the maximum width of material you can cut. Consider the typical sheet sizes and timber dimensions you'll be working with.

Dust extraction: Look for models with effective dust ports to maintain a cleaner, safer working environment when connected to suitable extraction systems.

Safety Information

Table saws are powerful machines that demand respect and proper handling. Always read the manufacturer's instructions thoroughly before use and familiarise yourself with kickback conditions – when the blade becomes pinched or jammed, causing sudden and potentially violent reactions. Use push sticks whenever your hands approach the blade area, maintain sharp blades, and ensure workpieces are properly supported. Wear appropriate eye protection and respiratory protection when cutting, particularly with treated timber or sheet materials. Never remove safety guards unless absolutely necessary, and always reconnect them immediately after completion of the task.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a benchtop and a contractor table saw?

Benchtop table saws are lighter, more portable machines designed to sit on workbenches or stands, typically with smaller blade sizes (210-216mm). Contractor saws are larger, heavier machines with bigger blades (250-315mm) and more powerful motors, offering greater cutting capacity and stability for professional workshop use.

Can I use a table saw for cutting sheet materials like plywood?

Yes, table saws are excellent for breaking down sheet materials. Ensure you have adequate support on both sides of the blade and consider the rip capacity of your chosen model. Many carpenters at MyToolShed.co.uk use table saws specifically for efficiently cutting plywood, MDF, and other sheet goods to size.

Do I need a special blade for different materials?

Whilst the general-purpose blades supplied with most table saws handle timber adequately, specialist blades optimised for ripping, cross-cutting, or cutting sheet materials will deliver cleaner results. Always ensure replacement blades match your saw's arbor size and maximum speed rating.