Table saws and mitre saws
Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a professional woodworker, a table saw and a mitre are among the most versatile and powerful tools you can have in your workshop. Designed to make accurate, straight cuts with ease, the saws can handle everything from simple DIY projects to complex carpentry tasks.
A table saw is more than just a cutting tool
A table saw’s versatility allows you to make rip cuts, crosscuts, bevel cuts, dadoes, and mitres, covering almost every type of cut needed for woodworking projects.
Efficiency is another key advantage — a table saw can complete tasks in seconds that would take much longer with a handsaw or circular saw, helping you work faster and more effectively. The precision offered by a flat, stable table surface and an adjustable fence system ensures that every cut is clean and consistent, which is vital for professional results.
Additionally, the power of a table saw allows it to handle thicker and tougher materials effortlessly, making it suitable for heavy-duty projects that require strength and durability. Whether you’re building custom furniture, tackling home renovations, or creating detailed woodworking pieces, a table saw not only saves you time but also enhances the overall quality of your work. It’s a must-have tool for anyone serious about woodworking.
Table saw vs. mitre saw: which one do you need?
Regarding woodworking and DIY projects, both table saws and mitre saws (chop saws) are essential tools, but they serve different purposes and excel in different types of tasks.
Master of precision: The power of a table saw
A table saw is designed for making long, straight cuts and crosscuts on large pieces of material like plywood, timber, or sheet goods. The blade is fixed in the middle of a flat table, and the material is pushed through the blade, giving you control over how much and where to cut. Table saws are incredibly versatile — they can handle rip cuts, crosscuts, bevel cuts, and even dado cuts with the right blade and setup.
They’re great for cutting large panels, trimming boards to size, and making repeated, accurate cuts over long lengths of material. If you’re building furniture cabinetry or need to cut large pieces of wood, a table saw is the go-to tool.
Angle expert: The versatility of a mitre saw
On the other hand, a mitre saw (or chop saw) is designed for making quick, precise angled cuts. The blade is mounted on a swing arm that you pull down to cut through the material. It’s great for making crosscuts, mitre cuts (angled cuts across the width of a board), bevel cuts, and compound cuts (a combination of mitre and bevel).
Mitre saws are ideal for cutting trim, moulding, picture frames, decking boards, and any project that requires precise angled cuts. They’re not as suited for ripping long boards or cutting large sheet materials like a table saw.
In summary, a table saw is best for cutting large sheets and making long, straight cuts, while a mitre saw is ideal for precise angled and crosscuts on smaller pieces. Many woodworkers and DIYers find that having both tools in their workshop covers all their cutting needs.
Safety tips for using table saws and mitre saws
Mitre saws and table saws should only be used by adults familiar with the machine. Always inspect the saw before use and ensure it’s placed on a stable surface, securely fastened with screws or clamps. Wear safety gear, including a dust mask, goggles, hearing protection, proper clothing, and non-slip shoes. Use gloves when handling or changing blades, and only use sharp, correctly installed blades. Keep the work area clean and free of debris.
Always secure workpieces properly, using support blocks for small items and additional support for long materials. Maintain a safe hand distance from the blade to prevent accidents.
Explore additions for your project
In addition to table saws, Biltema offers a variety of other cutting tools for your projects. Circular saws deliver fast, straight cuts through various materials . For detailed work, jigsaws offer control for curved cuts, and our saw blades and cutting discs ensure clean, efficient results. You need power and flexibility, reciprocating saws are ideal for demolition and rough cutting through wood, metal, and plastic.
FAQ
What is a mitre saw?
A mitre saw is a power tool designed for precise crosscuts and angled cuts in wood, plastic, or metal. While similar to a table saw in cutting capability, a mitre saw excels at cutting mouldings, frames, and trim with its adjustable blade for bevel and mitre cuts.
What is the difference between a plunge saw and a circular saw?
A mitre saw is a power tool designed for precise crosscuts and angled cuts in wood, plastic, or metal. While similar to a table saw in cutting capability, a mitre saw excels at cutting mouldings, frames, and trim with its adjustable blade for bevel and mitre cuts.
What is a chop saw?
A chop saw is a powerful tool designed for making straight, 90-degree cuts in metal, wood, or plastic. Unlike a table saw, which can handle long, continuous cuts, a chop saw is primarily used for quick, precise crosscuts.