Yes, a radial arm saw can still be very useful for certain tasks. The strength of a radial arm saw is in its precise, precise cuts. This means it can cut complex shapes and make curved cuts easily. It’s also adjustable, making it great for cutting at different depths and angles.
In addition, its relatively low cost makes it a great option for DIY projects or basic shop use. Radial arm saws can also be used to rip long boards down to size, which can be an invaluable tool for working with wide boards.
The downside to using a radial arm saw is that they are more difficult to maneuver than other saws. They can also be dangerous, so it’s important to always follow the instructions and use it correctly.
What is a radial arm saw for?
A radial arm saw is a versatile and powerful saw that can be used for a wide variety of tasks. It typically consists of a large motorized base, a vertical arm, and a circular saw blade that is mounted on the end of the arm.
It is designed to give the operator more control and precision over the cutting process by allowing them to pivot the arm and adjust the blade to the desired angle. Some of the tasks that can typically be performed with a radial arm saw include cutting materials to make straight, miter, and beveled cuts; creating compound miter cuts; crosscutting and ripping short and long pieces of wood; making rabbets; and cutting profiles.
With the right blades and accessories, a radial arm saw can also be used to make precision cuts in other materials such as metal and plastic.
Is a radial arm saw better than a table saw?
The answer to this question depends on several factors, such as the size and scope of the projects being worked on, the preferences of the user, and the skill level and expertise of the user. Table saws are more common for in-home use, as they can perform basic woodworking tasks, like cutting boards and making basic rip cuts.
They’re also more space-efficient than a radial arm saw, as they don’t require extra accessories or a wide workspace. On the other hand, radial arm saws are better than table saws for more precise and convenience-oriented tasks, such as making crosscuts and miters.
They’re also more adept at fabricating large pieces, or cutting thick material than table saws. Ultimately, the tool you choose should be based on the projects you’re working on and what type of precision you need.
For the casual woodworker, a table saw is likely more appropriate. Serious woodworkers and professionals may find that the extra investment for a radial arm saw is worth it for their needs.
What is the average cost of a radial arm saw?
The average cost of a radial arm saw depends on the features and brand. For example, a basic Craftsman model with a 10” blade can cost between $150 to $400, whereas a high-end model with a 12” blade and more features could cost around $600 to $1,400.
It is important to consider your needs and budget before choosing the right radial arm saw. Consider the features, power, and specifications of the saw before selecting the model and make sure it fits your needs.
In addition, be sure to check out reviews from customers and do research to ensure the saw will provide you with the necessary performance, safety, and durability.
Can you rip wood with a radial arm saw?
Yes, you can rip wood with a radial arm saw. The radial arm saw is a powerful tool that allows a woodworker to make straight cuts and specialized cuts using a blade that can be adjusted both vertically and horizontally for maximum precision.
It is especially useful for cutting in straight lines quickly, but it can also be used for more difficult rip cuts when paired with the proper setup. When using a radial arm saw for rip cuts, it is important to set the saw blade parallel with the wood grain and adjust the blade so that it is at a shallow angle to the wood piece.
Also, you should use a straight edge clamped to the wood piece as a guide to help with accuracy. While the radial arm saw can’t replace a table saw for rip cuts, it can help a woodworker achieve neat and precise rip cut results with a little practice and patience.
What is the difference between a miter saw and a radial arm saw?
The primary difference between a miter saw and a radial arm saw is the way they cut. A miter saw uses a short blade that is powered by an electric motor to make precise, quick crosscuts for woodworking projects.
The blade is mounted in a rotating chuck which moves across a base and has a tall fence that allows for controlled, accurate cuts, often at angles.
A radial arm saw, on the other hand, is another type of saw that is used for cutting wood and other materials. In contrast to a miter saw, it utilizes a long arm that has a circular saw blade mounted at one end that is moved around the material, making precise, long rip cuts.
The arm on the saw can be adjusted in height and depth, along with rotating the blade to make precise bevel cuts at any angle. The saw is also capable of making precise crosscuts with the help of a miter gauge.
As it uses a larger, heavier blade, and requires more effort to adjust and manipulate, the radial arm saw is not as popular as the miter saw for home projects, but is well-suited for rough construction, production shop, and other detailed or industrial type cutting applications.
When operating the radial arm saw you should?
When operating a radial arm saw, it is important to take all necessary safety precautions to avoid injury. First, always make sure the saw blades are sharp and securely attached. You should also maintain the planer blade guard, blade guard plate, and kickback pawls to ensure proper operation.
Always wear safety goggles, a dust mask, and protective gloves. Be sure to take appropriate measures for the desired cut, including selecting the right blade for the job, adjusting the speed of the motor, setting the right depth and angle, setting the fence accurately, and using an appropriate jig if necessary.
Pay special attention to the kickback feature. During the cutting process, keep hands, arms, and body well clear of the blade area and watch the workpiece closely to make sure it is being cut properly.
Finally, always turn off and unplug the saw after use.
Is it worth having a radial arm saw?
Yes, it is definitely worth having a radial arm saw. Radial arm saws are incredibly versatile, making them great for a variety of projects from cutting boards to joining boards. They are great for cutting thick materials by allowing you to make long straight cuts, and some models even allow you to make beveled cuts as well.
Radial arm saws are also relatively compact compared to other tools like table saws or sliding miter saws, so they are ideal if you want to save on space in your workshop. Additionally, they tend to be more affordable than other saws, making them a great budget-friendly option.
Plus, they’re easy to use and maintain, so they’re great for novice woodworkers and professionals alike. All in all, having a radial arm saw is definitely worth it due to its versatility, efficient cutting ability, and affordability.
Does Dewalt still make radial arm saws?
Yes, Dewalt still makes radial arm saws. Dewalt is well known for their quality power tools and the radial arm saw is no exception. This saw is designed to be incredibly versatile, allowing the user to switch between various types of blades depending on the task.
Dewalt offers a variety of different models, each tailored to specific types of projects. The radial arm saws are also equipped with advanced safety features to protect the user from kick-back or unintentional activation.
Overall, Dewalt radial arm saws are excellent tools for anyone looking for a reliable and powerful saw.
Why were Craftsman radial arm saws recalled?
In August of 2018, Craftsman recalled approximately 228,000 Craftsman 8-inch and 10-inch radial arm saws. The recall was prompted due to detached radial arm saw blades which could cause a serious injury to the user and bystanders.
The saws were sold through Amazon, Kmart, Lowe’s, Menards, Sears, and other retail stores from October 2015 to November 2017.
The affected model numbers are:
– 137.248320
– 137.248850
– 137.248851
– 137.248852
– 137.248854
– 137.248860
– 137.248870
The recall was initiated due to defects in the saw arbor’s pinion bearing that housed the the pins inserted in the radial arm blades. Unfortunately, the recalled saws may cause a detached blade pinion to be ejected from the machine, resulting in an injury to the user and foreseeable bystanders at the time.
Craftsman advised that affected customers should immediately stop using the recalled radial arm saws and contact them for a free replacement saw. The manufacturer can be contacted at 800-549-4505, online at www.
SearsPartsDirect. com or email recall. cr@sbdinc. com from 8am – 8pm EST Monday through Friday. Customers can also visit the company’s website at www. sears. com or www. kmart. com and click on Product Recalls at the bottom of the page for more information.
What type of cut should you not do with the radial arm saw?
The radial arm saw is a powerful and versatile piece of woodworking equipment, but there are certain types of cuts that are not recommended to be done with it. The blade of a radial arm saw is held up at an angle and spins in a circle.
This makes it difficult to push the wood straight against it, which is required for precision cuts like grooves and dadoes. The saw is also not designed to make bevel cuts, as its miter gauge is not adjustable to do so.
Additionally, the radial arm saw should never be used to make plunge cuts, as the blade can easily bind up while cutting in this way. Finally, the saw is not meant to make thin rips and thin crosscuts either, as the blade can easily kick back during these types of cuts.