There are so many table saws out there, and it can be overwhelming to find ones that will fit your needs and budget. The table saws that fit into both of those categories are the ones we want to focus on. Table saws are used in woodworking very often and if you need more woodworking information check out woodworking tools 101: the beginner’s guide. Let’s take a look at some of our favorites so you can find the Ridgid table saw that will give you what you need and give you the most bang for your buck.
Ridgid Table Saw: R4516 10 in. Portable Jobsite Table Saw
This Ridgid portable table saw is a high-quality tool. This model offers enough power to cut through any wood with ease. It also has a base with wheels, so you don’t have to lug it around with your hands. You can easily roll it on its wheels to save time and spare you any fatigue. It is loved by hobbyists because of how easy it is to use.
Things we like:
- Versatile
- Portable
- Compact
- Easy to use
Things we don’t like:
- A dust collector could be designed better. The dust collection works well, but it could have been created better.
- This model doesn’t come with a stand.
Features and Benefits
This saw has a big table that extends which will allow you to tackle bigger projects with ease, and it also has a fence that slides easily and accurately.
Ridgid Table Saw: R45161 15-Amp 10 in. Compact Table Saw
This compact rigid table saw is great for professional use. This is because it has the power to cut through any wood with ease, thanks to the 15-amp motor. The base has wheels that are great for job site mobility and it is compact which helps even more when it comes to moving the table saw around. Do you need more information on how to transport a table saw? Check out this article What You Need to Know: How to Transport a Table Saw.
Things we like:
- Portable
- Compact
- Easy to use
Things we don’t like:
- This model doesn’t come with a stand
Features and Benefits
This Ridgid table saw comes with a dual-locking rip fence. This enhances the alignment because the saw is clamped to the front and back of the table it is placed on. It also has an anti-kickback pawl and a blade guard. They will keep you safe and speed up blade replacement and installation.
Ridgid Table Saw: R4512 10 in. 13-Amp Cast Iron Table Saw
This is another high-quality tool. However, it’s not suitable for daily use, so if you work on projects daily this model might not be the one for you. This model has a smooth and powerful motor, which means you can cut through any wood with no problem. The base has wheels attached to it making it easily portable.
Things we like:
- Easy to use
- Portable
- Affordable
Things we don’t like:
- The quality of the wheels is not great. The wheels do work but they definitely could have been made better.
- It is not very compact
Features and Benefits
This Ridgid table saw comes with a transparent blade guard. This allows you to see what’s happening during operation and it keeps you safe. It also has a spacious tabletop area and storage. The storage area isn’t very big but it will allow you to store your most needed tools. The tabletop area has a lot of space, however, it could have been designed better. If you’re considering this model, keep that in mind.
Table Saws – What You Need To Know
Table saws allow you to make quick work of large pieces of wood. They’re also great for when you’re working on a large project.
Table Saw Features That are Important
- Dust Collection – Sawdust can be a hazardous result when using a table saw. You want to make sure your table saw has dust collection so your workspace stays clean and functional.
- Accessory Storage – Accessory storage may not seem important but it can be extremely helpful. With storage you will be able to store tools and accessories you will need when operating a table saw.
- Table Extensions – Table extensions are important because they’re extremely helpful when you’re cutting larger materials.
- On / Off Switch – On / Off switches are important because they turn off the saw. You don’t want to have to rely on unplugging the table saw to turn it off because if there is an emergency you may not be able to get to it.
Table Saw Safety Accessories – What do You Need?
When operating a table saw it is important that you keep yourself safe. Here are safety accessories you should for when you’re operating a table saw:
- Goggles – safety goggles are a must-have because you have to protect your eyes. Make sure you can see through them clearly and that they fit comfortably.
- Ear Protection – Ear protection is important because a table saw can be loud. Long-term exposure with no protection can damage your eardrums. Fortunately, there are a variety of ear protection options out there so you will be able to find something that works for you.
- Push Blocks and Sticks – Push blocks and sticks protect your hands and fingers during the cutting process.
Table Saw Safety Tips
- Do NOT start the saw when there is something touching the blade.
- Turn off and unplug the table when you’re not using it.
- Make sure you’re always using the rip fence when rip cutting, do NOT freehand.
- Keep materials completely flat when cutting.
Who is Rigid?
Rigid is an American manufacturer that creates and distributes hand tools. The company was created in 1923 and is owned by Emerson Electric.
Conclusion
While any of the three rigid table saws we’ve covered above would make a great addition to your shop, we believe one rigid table saw outshines the others. Our favorite saw is the Ridgid R4512 10 in. 13-Amp Cast IronTable Saw. The R4512 offers the best features overall for the price.
If the Ridgid R4512 10 in. 13-Amp Cast IronTable Saw is too pricey or large for you, the Ridgid R45161 15-Amp 10 in. Compact Table Saw may be the perfect table saw for you it is budget-friendly and compact. For more information check out our list of table saws. Are you looking for more brand-specific table saw reviews? Check out our Craftsman, Jet, and Bosch reviews.
Still looking? Check out our new guide to see the best table saw you can buy.
