Radial arm saws are powerful and versatile tools, however they can be dangerous if handled incorrectly; they are not well-suited to smaller projects and can often be difficult to control. Furthermore, they require a considerable amount of experience to use safely; even with experience it can be easy to make mistakes that can cause kickback or other hazards.
They are also quite large and require a lot of space to set up, making them difficult to use in a cramped workshop or garage. Some people also find them to be overly expensive for the limited range of tasks they can realistically accomplish.
Additionally, radial arm saws require a significant investment of time and effort to properly adjust and maintain them, making them cumbersome and inconvenient for many woodworkers.
Does anyone still use radial arm saws?
Yes, radial arm saws are still being used by many people today. They are a great tool for cutting straight and accurate cuts, especially for those who are looking for precise results. Many professionals in the building and DIY industries prefer the radial arm saw due to its precise cuts and its versatility when it comes to cutting different types of material.
It can also be used to make angled and compound miter cuts, as well as dado cuts and other less-common cuts. Because of their precise cuts and versatility, radial arm saws are often the tool of choice for professional woodworking shops and cabinetmakers.
They are also often used for cutting finer pieces of plywood, melamine and other sheet goods. All in all, radial arm saws are still a viable option for anyone wanting precise, accurate cuts and are looking for an effective and efficient way to cut different types of material.
Is the radial arm saw obsolete?
No, the radial arm saw is not obsolete. Instead, it has been largely replaced by the more maneuverable miter saw. It is still often used in woodworking shops and is particularly valued for its movable arm, enabling cuts at various angles and depths not possible with a miter saw alone.
Radial arm saws are also smaller, lighter and more cost-effective than table saws, making them ideal for home workshop settings. Furthermore, radial arm saws can make rip and crosscut operations, whereas miter saws usually make just crosscuts.
Radial arm saws are also useful when making dadoes, rabbets and other specialty cuts. Finally, they are a great asset for cutting wide, long boards. For all of these reasons, the radial arm saw still has a place in woodworking today.
Is it worth having a radial arm saw?
The answer to this question depends entirely on your individual needs. A radial arm saw is a powerful saw, commonly found in workshops and construction sites. They are able to make accurate crosscuts, rip cuts, and mitres and are great for making quick and accurate cuts on large boards.
They have the advantage of a larger cutting capacity than other types of saws, and offer more maneuverability than a regular table saw.
However, a radial arm saw can be expensive and require a significant amount of space. In addition, they are not as versatile as a table saw, which can make rip, crosscut, mitre, and compound cuts.
If you are a professional woodworker who needs to make a lot of large, accurate cuts, then a radial arm saw is worth the cost and space it takes up. On the other hand, if you are a homeowner who is not making large or complex cuts, then a table saw may be a better option.
What is the average cost of a radial arm saw?
The average cost of a radial arm saw ranges from $100 to $800+, depending on the type, size and quality of the saw. Mid-range saws usually range from $250 to $450. Professional grade saws can range from $800 to $2,000 or more.
The size and design of the saw and the type of motor used play a big part in determining cost. Also, if there are special features or safety features, this may add to the price. Consider what materials you will be using and how intricate a precision cut you need to determine the type and cost of radial arm saw that will best suit your needs.
Is a radial arm saw better than a miter saw?
That depends on the specific application. Generally speaking, miter saws are better for making fast and precise cross and miter cuts, while radial arm saws are better for making long, straight cuts and for precision cutting of thicker material.
Radial arm saws allow for better accuracy when cutting a variety of materials, due to the support arm, which holds the workpiece steady. Additionally, radial arm saws are better for repetition cutting where you need to make identical cuts, since they have the ability to quickly adjust and re-cut a sequence of cuts.
The downside of radial arm saws is that they tend to be bulkier, more expensive, and more complex to use than miter saws. Ultimately, choosing the right saw will depend on your skill level, the type of materials you’re working with, and the types of cuts you want to make.
Can you rip wood with a radial arm saw?
Yes, a radial arm saw can be used to rip wood. This type of saw has a large, wide arm that pivots around a base and can make straight, accurate cuts with a blade that moves from side to side. It is designed to cut long pieces of wood quickly, accurately, and safely.
To rip wood with a radial arm saw, the blade should be placed to the left or right of the cutting line and the arm should be moved back and forth along the line. This allows the saw to rip the wood into two pieces.
It’s important to use the proper blade and make sure that it is correctly aligned before cutting. It’s also important to pay attention to the feed rate and adjust it if necessary to achieve the desired results without damaging the saw or the wood.
Why were Craftsman radial arm saws recalled?
Craftsman radial arm saws were recalled due to a safety issue that posed a risk of injury. There was a risk that the arm of the saw could separate from the main body of the saw, causing the arm and blade to become detached, which posed a serious risk of severe and potentially life-threatening injury to users.
This defect was linked to an internal pin that connects the arm to the saw body, which could fail over time, causing the arm to separate from the saw body. Additionally, Craftsman radial arm saws were also recalled due to a defective circuit breaker switch, designed to prevent the motor from being overloaded; this failure creates a risk of electric shock and fire.
As a result, Sears recalled close to one million radial arm saws in January of 2004.
What is the difference between a table saw and a radial arm saw?
A table saw and a radial arm saw both have a sharp blade that can be used for cutting wood, but there are a few key differences between them.
The table saw has a stationary blade that the wood is pushed against, and it’s generally used for making rip cuts or crosscuts, or for cutting wood to a desired length. The blade height, angle, and bevel can be easily adjusted depending on the cut desired.
The table saw is also commonly used to cut dadoes and rabbets.
The radial arm saw, on the other hand, has a blade that slides along an arm, allowing it to make more complex angled cuts than a table saw can. The blade can also be positioned more easily and quickly to change angles, allowing it to be used for making cuts on outside curves.
The radial arm saw is usually used for cuts that are too complicated for a table saw and require precision.
Which direction do you feed a radial arm saw?
When feeding raw lumber with a radial arm saw, it is important that you feed it in the direction of the blade rotation. It is best to look at the blade and feed the lumber in the same direction it is rotating.
This will help improve accuracy and reduce the chances of kickback, which is a dangerous situation in which the saw blade leaves the material, rises up, and comes back toward you. It is also important to feed the lumber at a steady pace and to hold the lumber firmly to the table as you feed it.
Finally, it is important to make sure your hands are safely away from the blade while you’re feeding the wood.
How do you make a table for a Craftsman radial arm saw?
Making a table for a Craftsman radial arm saw is a fairly simple process that requires a few basic tools. You will need a saw, some plywood, screws, a drill, and a jigsaw or circular saw. You can purchase these items at most hardware stores or online.
Begin by measuring the area you want the table to fit in. Make sure that you measure the area around the saw itself, as well. Once you have the measurements, use them to mark out a table shape that will fit.
You can use a jigsaw or a circular saw to cut the shape, but a circular saw is usually recommended for more accurate cuts.
Once the shape is cut, you will need to mount the saw to the table. Mark the holes using a pencil, then drill pilot holes for the screws. Place the saw on the table, then use the screws to mount it securely.
Now you’ll need to make supports for the table in order to make sure it is stable. You can use plywood or any other type of wood you prefer. Cut the supports to fit and then use screws to attach them to the table.
Finally, you should sand the table down with some fine-grit sandpaper. Once this is done, it is ready to use. It’s just that simple. Just follow these steps and you can easily make a table for your Craftsman radial arm saw.
Does Dewalt make a radial arm saw?
Yes, Dewalt does make a radial arm saw. The Dewalt DWE7491RS 10-Inch Jobsite Table Saw with 32-1/2-Inch Rip Capacity and Rolling Stand is a powerful radial arm saw that is designed to tackle a range of jobsite projects.
It features a 15 Amp motor, 32-1/2-inch rip capacity, and a rolling stand with wheels and handle, making it easy to transport. The blade can be adjusted up to 5/8 inches for a precise cut and increased rip capacity.
It also has a max depth at 90° of 3-1/8 inches and max depth at 45° of 2-1/4 inches for more precise cuts. Additionally, the DWE7491RS features a rack and pinion fence system with front and rear fence locks, allowing for easier fence adjustments and improved accuracy.
Other features include an adjustable miter gauge, overload protection, and a dust bag to help keep the work area clean. If you are looking for an affordable, yet durable radial arm saw, the Dewalt DWE7491RS would make a great option.
How do you make a radial arm saw table top?
Making your own radial arm saw table top is a relatively easy task as long as you have access to the right materials and tools. Here are the basic steps you need to take:
1. Measure the size of your saw’s arm and the area it will occupy on the table top.
2. Cut a piece of ¾” plywood acorrding to those dimensions and tape the edges.
3. Attach the plywood to a 4” x 4” frame made of 2” x 4” lumber with wood screws.
4. Place your radial arm saw onto the table top and trace the edges.
5. Cut a larger hole in the plywood using a jigsaw to make room for the saw’s motor, ensuring that it is large enough to accommodate it.
6. Drill four holes along the corners of the recessed area in order to attach the saw securely to the table top.
7. Attach the saw to the table top with machine bolts and secure the bolts with nuts.
8. For added stability and to prevent the table top from shifting, drill a row of holes along the edges of the table and screw down a base plate to the underside.
9. Finally, finish the table top with a water-resistant sealer to protect it from dust and moisture.
Following these steps should help you construct your own radial arm saw table top relatively easily.
What kind of wood for radial arm saw table?
When designing a radial arm saw table, it is important to choose the right kind of wood. Hardwood is generally the best choice, as it is the most durable and long-lasting. Maple and oak are two of the most popular hardwood options, as they are strong, heavy, and resistant to wear or splitting.
Plywood is also an option, and it is often used to create work benches and counters. Plywood is constructed using several thin layers of wood that are bonded together, so it is less susceptible to cracking or splitting.
However, it is not as strong as hardwood and can wear down faster. Depending on the softness or hardness of the wood, blade tooth counts should be adjusted to ensure a clean cut and reduce splintering.
If a light wood is being used, a higher tooth count will provide better results. For a denser wood, a lower tooth count is preferable. Additionally, drilling predrilled pocket holes into the wood can help improve the stability of the table and reduce wear.
