One of my first tools was a Craftsman table saw and it was built like a tank. I’m sure I could drag it behind my truck for a couple miles and it would still work. Most current models have reduced weight to make them easy to transport. I must say that safety has been a major upgrade in table saws. From the blade and kickback guards, splitters and auto shut off to name a few.
Craftsman really carved the way with over 90 years of history in tools. Also known as a saw bench, or bench saw in England is a wood working tool consisting of a circular saw blade, mounted on an arbor that is driven by an electric motor. The blade protrudes through the top of the table which provides support for the material being cut, which is usually wood. The depth of the cut is varied by moving the blade up, and down. The higher the blade protrudes above the table, the deeper the cut that is made. The angle of the cut is controlled by adjusting the angle of the blade.
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Different Craftsman Table Saw Models
The most common types of Craftsman table saws are compact, bench top, jobsite, contractor hybrid, cabinet, and sliding. Bench top saws are lightweight and are designed to be placed on a table or other support for operation. It really depends on how you plan to use it, then you can decide on what model to choose.
Bench Top Table Saw
Bench top saws are the least expensive table saws with light cutting ability. Jobsite table saws are slightly bigger than Bench tops and placed on stationary or folding stand during operation. Jobsite table saws are usually used by carpenters, contractors, and tradesmen on the jobsite, hence the name.
Compact table saws
Compact table saws are much larger than portable saws and sit on a stationary stand. They are made with cast iron tops, and universal type motors driven by small toothed belts. Contractor table saws are heavier, larger saws that are attached to a stand or base, sometimes with wheels. Usually using a 1 to 2 hp motor this type of table saw is usually used by hobbyist and homeowners.
Craftsman Cabinet Saws
Cabinet table saws are heavy, using large amounts of cast iron and steel to minimize vibration and increase accuracy. The motor is usually 3 to 5 hp driven by 1 or more V-belts, or A-belts. These saws are usually used for heavy construction. Sliding saws, a variation on the cabinet saw can use 3-5, or even 7 hp motors. These are the largest types of saws and used mostly in large production cabinet shops.
The Best Craftsman Table Saw Model Reviewed
Here it a quick comparison and guide to the top two craftsman models that I have reviewed. Let me know if you have others that you would like me to review.
Craftsman 10″ Table Saw
This Craftsman 10 inch table saw is a solid, great value saw for most workshops. It was affordable, portable, manageable, and versatile. The 1-2 hp motor, and blades have a life of at least 2 years which can cut up to 3” of wood with ease leaving a smooth surface. The solid build, ease of assembly, and mobility is great table saw for light to medium cutting within your own personal space.
A Solidly Built Table Saw By Craftsman
The Craftsman table saw is solidly built, quiet in enclosed spaces, and smooth running. All parts that are needed are available, and organized. These parts are effectively sealed in bags designed for specific assemblies. I have had great success using a brand that provides the support the tools may need and stand behind their product. My top pick is the Craftsman 10″ table saw with Laser trac. This is one of the best table saws available by Craftsman in my opinion and checks all the boxes for the majority of wood workers and contractors.
Still looking? Check out our new guide to see the best table saw you can buy.
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