Since I got a Makita 10″ Sliding Compound Miter Saw, I can’t imagine many instances when I’ll use my table saw to cross-cut stock. I can imagine having to get out the cross cut sled for boards or panels that are wider than the slider can accomodate. I can imagine getting out the miter gauge to make non-through cuts for shoulders, dados etc, though I’d probably use my router table for these. All this said, in many FWW articles, like the one on stock preparation, the final cross cuts are made with the table saw. It makes me wonder if I’m missing something. Does anyone have reason to think that a table saw with say a cross cut sled makes any better cross cuts than a SCMS? Or is it just a several ways to skin a cat kind of thing?
Thanks.
Replies
Depending on the table saw type, contractor vs cabinet, the saw will run smoother than a SCMS. The SCMS is a less accurate tool. At least, right out of the box. The blade is more likely to vibrate on a SCMS.
You have to hold the board and operate the saw which might lend itself to board creep. On a table saw you should have both hands on the stock. I can consistantly shave a hair width on my table saw. I can't on my SCMS.
There is tradition as well. The table saw has been the center piece of the shop.
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