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18 Best Table Saw Accessories of 2025

Updated
Get the best accessories for your table saw to maximize its performance.

A table saw is an important tool for any carpenter or other woodworker, serving as the workhorse of a woodshop or construction site. A high-end table saw is a powerful, accurate tool, but the right accessory can adapt it to suit your needs even more.

There are many accessories available, from essential parts such as blades and table extenders to items that will make a saw more user-friendly such as angle gauges and push blocks. With various types to choose from, it might not be clear which ones will be suitable for your saw and whether or not they are worth buying.

To help you decide, we have reviewed 18 of the best table saw accessories. This includes taking a closer look at each type of accessory and how they can make a difference to your cutting.

Our Top Picks

We independently evaluate, assess and research all recommended products and services. If you purchase through the links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Best Table Saw Blade: DeWALT Miter/Table Saw Blade
  • General-purpose use
  • 2-blade set
  • Carbide-tipped
Best Table Saw Stand: DeWALT DW7440RS Table Saw Stand
  • Weighs just 33 pounds
  • Easy to maneuver
  • Quick-release brackets
Best Table Saw Fence: Vega U50 Table Saw Fence System
  • 50-inch rip capacity
  • Fits many table saw models
  • Easy to install
Best Table Saw Push Block: Grr-Ripper Advanced 3D Pushblock
  • Uses three-directional force
  • High-grip surface
  • Suitable for thin rip cuts
Best Table Saw Clearance Insert: Leecraft R4512 Zero Clearance Insert
  • Riving knife slot
  • Friction-free operation
  • Reduces kickbacks & binding
Best Table Saw Link Belt: Grizzly Industrial Power Twist V-Belt
  • Adjustable & flexible
  • Reduces vibration
  • Doesn't become deformed
Best Dado Blade Set: Oshlun SDS-0630 30-Tooth Dado Set
  • 6-piece set
  • Carbide-tipped
  • Storage case
Best Table Extension: Bench Dog Tools ProMax Table Extension
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Fits most contractor-grade saws
  • Includes a fence
Best Table Saw Safety Set: Powertec 71009 Safety Set
  • Improves safety
  • Helps maintain control
  • Reduces kickbacks
Best Table Saw Angle Gauge: Wixey WR365 Digital Angle Gauge
  • Easy to set up & use
  • Very accurate
  • 180-degree range


Product Reviews

You will have a seemingly endless array of accessories to choose from, each of which will vary in usefulness. To help you find the right one, we have reviewed 18 of the best table saw accessories that are currently available. We chose these products for how they will improve your cutting experience and the quality of your finish.

DeWALT 10-Inch Miter/Table Saw Blade

Best Table Saw Blade

If you step onto a building site right now, you will almost certainly see DeWALT tools being used. This is due to the high quality and reliability of the company’s products, including its saw blades.

This combo pack of cross-cutting and general-use blades provides excellent value for money. They are carbide-tipped to retain their sharpness for longer, making them an even better investment.

These two blades have a thin kerf and you will receive one blade with 32 teeth per inch and another with 60. They have a computer-balanced plate to reduce noise and vibrations, which will improve the accuracy and finish of your cuts.

These blades are only suitable for 10-inch table saws.

Pros

  • Leading brand
  • General-purpose and cross-cutting
  • 2-blade set
  • Value for money

Cons

  • Durability issues

Product Specs

Teeth 60 and 32
Kerf Thin
Max RPM Not stated
Cost $
Carbide-tipped Yes
Use One blade for cross-cutting and one for general-purpose use
Blade size 10-inch
Anti-vibration Computer-balanced to reduce vibration

Our Ratings

Compatibility
4 / 5
Material Quality
4.5 / 5
Functionality
4.5 / 5
Durability
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

DeWALT DW7440RS Mobile Table Saw Stand

Best Table Saw Stand

This DeWALT mobile table saw stand is lightweight at just 33 pounds. This lighter weight and a pair of large, sturdy wheels make the stand easy to move.

It folds flat for secure storage and has quick-connect brackets that make attaching and removing the saw very easy. This means it won’t take long to pack away your equipment if you need to work on-site.

An ergonomic handle helps you relocate your saw when it is mounted and the rubber feet prevent the stand from sliding during use. This stand is 40 inches tall, which will put your saw at a comfortable height, reducing the strain on your back and legs.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Easy to maneuver
  • Quick-release brackets
  • Folds flat

Cons

  • Expensive replacement parts
  • Not the sturdiest stand

Product Specs

Height 40 inches
Weight 33 pounds
Adjustable Yes
Cost $$
Warranty 1-year

Our Ratings

Compatibility
4 / 5
Material Quality
4 / 5
Functionality
4.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Vega U50 Table Saw Fence System

Best Table Saw Fence

Vega is an industry leader in table saw fences and the Pro U50 is one of the brand’s smaller models at 36 inches. However, there is also a larger 42-inch version.

At 36 inches, this fence facilitates smaller, more precise rip cuts, with a rip capacity of 50 inches. You should be able to install it in less than 15 minutes. It is a versatile fence and will fit Delta Unisaw, Contractor, and Powermatic 10-inch table saws, with no drilling required.

This Vega fence system also allows for micro-adjustments to ensure your cuts are completely accurate. The only downside is its price, which is higher than some table saws. However, this is a very high-quality fence and a worthwhile investment if you can afford it.

Pros

  • Rip capacity
  • Accuracy
  • Easy to install
  • Micro-adjustments

Cons

  • Expensive for a fence

Product Specs

Rip capacity 50 inches
Length 36 inches
Compatibility Delta Unisaw, Contractor, Powertec
Material Aluminum
Cost $$$

Our Ratings

Compatibility
4.5 / 5
Material Quality
4.5 / 5
Functionality
4.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Grr-Ripper Advanced 3D Pushblock

Best Table Saw Push Block

This Grr-Ripper Advanced 3D push block applies force from three different directions to ensure you have total control over your work. Downward pressure prevents kickbacks; sideways force keeps the stock pressed against the fence, and a forward push feeds the stock into the blade at the required speed.

This American-made block is designed to also act as a moving blade guard, keeping your fingers away from the blade at all times.

It has a cutting range of 0.25 inches to 5 inches, so you can use it to saw thin strips. It can be used for bevel cuts, ripping, crosscutting, dowels, dadoes, and even irregular shapes.

It includes an adjustable spacer, which increases the grip size of the block by almost 54%. This means you will have complete control, even when working on large-scale projects.

Pros

  • Three-directional force
  • 54% larger grip-surface
  • Acts as a moving blade guard
  • Makes thin rip cuts

Cons

  • Expensive for a push block

Product Specs

Dimensions (inches) 8 x 5.5 x 4.65
Weight 2.4 pounds
Cutting range 0.25 to 5 inches
Cost $$$
Warranty 3-year

Our Ratings

Compatibility
4.5 / 5
Material Quality
4.5 / 5
Functionality
5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

Leecraft R4512 Zero Clearance Insert

Best Table Saw Clearance Insert

This zero-clearance table saw insert prevents small pieces of material from becoming lodged between the blade and the throat. This reduces the risk of your saw blade binding and improves tear-out and dust collection, which can otherwise lead to your saw gumming.

This Leecraft model is not universal and only fits the Ridgid R4512 professional table saw. Check your model number before buying, as Leecraft offers zero-clearance inserts to fit most brands and models of table saws.

This insert also has a slot for a riving knife, which helps prevent kickbacks. It is made of phenolic material, with a smooth surface that reduces friction and abrasion.

Pros

  • Riving knife slot
  • Friction-free surface
  • Reduces kickbacks and binding

Cons

  • Not universal
  • Quite expensive

Product Specs

Weight 1.05 pounds
Dimensions (inches) 15.25 x 3.75 x 0.9
Price $$

Our Ratings

Compatibility
3 / 5
Material Quality
4 / 5
Functionality
4.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Grizzly Industrial T21992 Power Twist V-Belt

Best Table Saw Link Belt

This Grizzly link belt is intended to replace your table saw’s old V-belt. As traditional belts are rubberized, they become brittle over time and can snap or develop bumps. This will cause your saw to rattle during use, especially if it hasn’t been used for a while. Another issue with rubber belts is that they can stretch due to overuse.

A link belt avoids these issues. Each twist-together woven link moves independently, which means the belt has no “memory” and won’t deform if left idle for a long time.

Link belts are adjustable in size, so you can cut them to fit any belt-driven tool. Using a link belt means your table saw should run smoothly, reducing vibrations and helping you make more accurate cuts.

Pros

  • Adjustable
  • Reduces vibration
  • Doesn’t deform
  • Retains its flexibility

Cons

  • Expensive

Product Specs

Material Polyurethane
Length 48 inches
Thickness 0.50-inch
Suitable for Lathes, bandsaws, table saws, and other belt-driven tools
Price $$

Our Ratings

Compatibility
4.5 / 5
Material Quality
4.5 / 5
Functionality
4.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

Oshlun SDS-0630 8-Inch 30-Tooth Dado Set

Best Dado Blade Set

Dado sets are versatile and can cut dadoes, grooves, and rabbets. This Oshlun dado set is carbide-tipped to improve its heat resistance and keep its teeth sharper for longer. The blades have full-body chippers, with a dado saw tooth count of 30, while the chipper blade has 5 TPI.

The shim is set for fine adjustments, which will help you get the most out of the blade set and spend less time shuffling the shims. There is even a storage case to keep your blades in pristine condition when they aren’t in use.

This 16-piece saw set can cut dadoes ranging from 0.25 inches to 0.9 inches. Thanks to its intuitive design, it reduces tear-out and splintering when making cuts.

Pros

  • Adjustable
  • 16-piece set
  • Carbide-tipped
  • Storage case

Cons

  • Possible quality issues

Product Specs

Weight 8 ounces
Dimensions (inches) 8.2 x 8.1 x 2.4
Number of pieces 16
Arbor size 0.625 inches
Teeth per inch 30 and 5
Price $
Warranty Lifetime

Our Ratings

Compatibility
4 / 5
Material Quality
4 / 5
Functionality
4.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Bench Dog Tools 40-102 ProMax Cast Iron Table Extension

Best Table Extension

If you own a steel cabinet table saw, this Bench Dog table extension will give you the extra capacity to complete more substantial projects. It fits all contractor-grade table saws and right-tilt cabinet saws, as long as the table measures 27 inches by 0.5 inches thick.

It comes complete with a pro fence, which is easy to remove and store on the included J-hooks. This table extension kit is ideal for anyone who has limited space in their workshop and it contains all the hardware you need to mount it.

The plate opening measures 8.25 inches by 11.75 inches and the table is 0.375 inches thick. Your purchase is protected by a lifetime warranty, so you have the peace of mind of knowing that you will be covered if any issues occur.

Pros

  • Lifetime warranty
  • Ideal for small workshops
  • Fits most contractor-grade saws
  • Includes a fence

Cons

  • Only fits professional-grade table saws

Product Specs

Weight 60 pounds
Dimensions (inches) 18 x 29 x 4
Table thickness 0.375 inches
Suited for Cabinet and professional-grade table saws
Warranty Limited lifetime warranty

Our Ratings

Compatibility
3.5 / 5
Material Quality
4.5 / 5
Functionality
4.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Powertec 71009 Safety Set

Best Table Saw Safety Set

This table saw safety set will keep you safer while cutting material. It includes a long hold-down push stick, two short hold-down push sticks, one safe V stick, and a straight push stick. Each push stick has an ergonomic handle so you can use it comfortably and maintain a firm grip.

Push sticks enable you to control the material you are cutting while keeping your fingers at a safe distance from the blade, reducing the risk of accidents and kickbacks. This will help you make complex cuts and thin cuts safely.

These sticks will enable you to maintain consistent pressure while guiding the stock toward the blade. Keeping the workpiece pressed firmly against the rip fence decreases binding, which reduces the risk of kickbacks.

Pros

  • Set of 5 push sticks
  • Improves safety
  • Helps you maintain control
  • Reduces kickbacks

Cons

  • Plastic feels cheap
  • Sawdust reduces grip

Product Specs

Weight 1.96 pounds
Number of pieces 5
Material Plastic and foam
Price $

Our Ratings

Compatibility
5 / 5
Material Quality
4 / 5
Functionality
4.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

Wixey WR365 Digital Angle Gauge

Best Table Saw Angle Gauge

Table saws are excellent tools for making angled cuts, but you might struggle to set a specific angle. This Wixey digital angle gauge will help you align your saw and make accurate angled cuts quickly and easily.

All you need to do is set the blade in an upright position and place the angle gauge against its side. Press zero to reset the gauge and the magnetic strips will hold it in place as you adjust the blade while showing you the cutting angle.

It has a 180-degree range and is just 1.5 inches tall. This digital tool will help you make angled cuts with greater speed and accuracy. Making cuts that are even slightly wrong can have far-reaching effects and ruin a project, so this tool could prove invaluable.

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Set up in seconds
  • Measures quickly and accurately
  • 180-degree range

Cons

  • Quite expensive

Product Specs

Weight 3.53 ounces
Dimensions (inches) 6.2 x 1.5 x 1.5
Resolution 0.1 degrees
Functions On/off switch, zero switch
Range 180 degrees
Price $$

Our Ratings

Compatibility
4.5 / 5
Material Quality
4 / 5
Functionality
5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

Woodstock D4151 110/220-Volt Paddle Switch

Best Table Saw Switch

Table saws have exposed blades, which means they need to be used with great care. This paddle switch will help make your saw safer to use, especially if it doesn’t have an obvious safety switch.

Installing this switch could be the difference between a minor injury and a severe one. If you have an accident, you can immediately bump this switch with your knee to stop the saw.

It is rated for 2 and 3-horsepower motors and operates at 110 and 220 volts. It is covered by a 12-month warranty so you can buy it with confidence.

Pros

  • Designed for 2 and 3-horsepower motors
  • 110/220 volts
  • Paddle cuts power
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Switch only
  • No wires or box included

Product Specs

Weight 5.6 ounces
Dimensions (inches) 6.5 x 4.2 x 3.3
Rating 2 and 3-horsepower motors
Price $
Warranty 1-year

Our Ratings

Compatibility
3.5 / 5
Material Quality
4 / 5
Functionality
4.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Incra Miter V27 Miter Gauge

Best Table Saw Miter Gauge

This Incra miter gauge has 41 angle stops to help you make precise cuts at various angles. It has a plus or minus 60-degree range so you can make various cuts. There are special stops at 22.5 degrees for increased versatility, and the patented Glidelock miter bar has 4 expansion points.

Depending on your table saw, its included miter gauges might be low quality or inaccurate. If you need to make cuts with professional accuracy, it is worth investing in a specialist miter gauge such as this one.

The 41 angled stops are in 5-degree increments over the full 180-degree range. This miter gauge is universal, so it should fit your table saw.

Pros

  • 5-degree increments
  • 41 angled stops
  • No-wiggle expansion locks
  • 180-degree range

Cons

  • Build quality issues
  • Some plastic parts

Product Specs

Weight 2.71 pounds
Dimensions (inches) 17 x 6.88 x 3.5
Angles 41
Range 180 degrees
Price $$
Warranty 1-year replacement

Our Ratings

Compatibility
4.5 / 5
Material Quality
3.5 / 5
Functionality
4.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Bosch TS1004 Table Saw Dust Collector

Best Table Saw Dust Collector

Bosch is renowned for making quality products and this dust collector is no exception. It isn’t a universal accessory and is designed for the Bosch 10-inch 4000 series table saw as well as the 4100, GTS1031, and GTS1041A.

It can also be used with some other table saws as long as they have an outlet port of 2.5 inches. Make sure you check your owner’s manual before you commit to buying this dust collector.

It is easy to attach and detach, and removes up to 70% of the dust your saw releases, keeping your workshop cleaner and protecting your lungs. The bag is made of heavy cloth material and has a robust zipper for easier transportation and emptying.

Pros

  • Inexpensive
  • Compatible with 4 Bosch saws models
  • Easy to attach
  • Removes 70% of sawdust

Cons

  • Not universal

Product Specs

Weight 6.4 ounces
Material Heavy cloth
Port size 2.5 inches
Price $

Our Ratings

Compatibility
3 / 5
Material Quality
4 / 5
Functionality
4.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

DeWALT 10-Inch Throat Plate

Best Table Saw Throat Plate

With a similar design to a zero-clearance insert, a throat plate replaces the plate that is included with your table saw. It prevents debris from falling between the blade and the saw’s inner mechanisms. Some basic throat plates are of poor quality, so it is worth buying an upgrade.

This DeWALT throat plate is compatible with DeWALT saws with the serial numbers DWE7490 or DWE7491. The plate has a large enough gap to allow the blade to spin at an angle for a wider range of cuts. It can also accommodate dado blade stacks that give the user the ability to make rabbet, dado, and bevel cuts.

Pros

  • Top brand
  • Accommodates dado stacks
  • Versatile

Cons

  • Not universal

Product Specs

Weight 13.1 ounces
Dimensions (inches) 17.5 x 8.8 x 10.2
Suited for Dado stacks
Price $$

Our Ratings

Compatibility
3 / 5
Material Quality
4.5 / 5
Functionality
4.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Milescraft 1408 Featherboard

Best Table Saw Featherboard

This Milescraft feather board utilizes an innovative design to ensure consistent tension on the split rail construction. It increases the pressure on the stock as it travels along the rip fence. This process reduces the risk of kickbacks and helps the stock move through the blade more smoothly.

This model has universal mounts that fit most table saw brands. It also offers dual motion, side-to-side, and forward action for quicker, easier set-up. It is important to check your saw’s manual to ensure that this feather board is compatible with your specific model.

This feather board is very affordable and will make your table saw more accurate and safer to use.

Pros

  • Inexpensive
  • Universal mounts
  • Increases pressure on the stock
  • Reduces risk of kickbacks

Cons

  • Plastic construction

Product Specs

Weight 12.8 ounces
Dimensions 8.9 x 10.5 x 2.85
Mount type Universal
Price $

Our Ratings

Compatibility
4.5 / 5
Material Quality
3 / 5
Functionality
4.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Shop Fox D2057A Adjustable Mobile Base

Best Table Saw Mobile Base

This Shop Fox mobile base will hold your saw and make it more maneuverable. It can carry a weight of 700 pounds and can be configured in 8 different ways to adapt to varying types of table saws.

It has an adjustable frame that lets you lock the saw in place. The heavy-duty casters are mounted on outriggers to give the saw a low center of gravity, which is important for keeping it stable during use.

This all adds up to a base that is sturdy and easy to maneuver. Once you are satisfied that your saw is in the right location, the 2-piece foot pads can be adjusted to raise or lower the table saw and prevent it from moving.

This mobile base has a minimum size capacity of 19 inches by 20.5 inches and a maximum of 29.5 inches by 29.5 inches, so double-check that your saw will fit before buying it.

Pros

  • Large casters
  • 700-pound maximum load
  • Adjustable footpads
  • 8 different configurations

Cons

  • Tricky to assemble
  • Low-quality casters
  • Casters are expensive to replace

Product Specs

Weight 31 pounds
Dimensions (inches) 3.6 x 22.5 x 17.5
Min and max size (inches) 19 x 22.5 / 29.5 x 29.5
Configurations 8
Price $$
Warranty 1-year limited

Our Ratings

Compatibility
4 / 5
Material Quality
3.5 / 5
Functionality
4 / 5
Durability
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

MICROJIG Splitter SteelPro TK

Best Table Saw Splitter

According to MICROJIG, this is one of the most popular aftermarket splitters for thin kerf saw blades today. It installs directly into zero-clearance inserts, so it is compatible with throat plates you can buy separately.

It has an automatic kerf keeper that prevents the wood from binding around the blade, and mini feather board technology holds the workpiece against the fence to prevent kickbacks. This also reduces the risk of overheating while cutting.

This American-made splitter has a polymer shell and a stainless steel core, so it is robust. Installation is made easier as MICROJIG provides you with a drill bit and drill guide.

Pros

  • Steel core
  • Automatic kerf keeper
  • Reduces binding
  • American-made

Cons

  • The plastic outer layer can crack

Product Specs

Weight 8 ounces
Dimensions (inches) 4 x 4 x 0.5
Material Stainless steel and polymer
Universal Fits all zero-clearance inserts
Price $$

Our Ratings

Compatibility
4.5 / 5
Material Quality
4 / 5
Functionality
4.5 / 5
Durability
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Rockler Table Saw Crosscut Sled

Best Table Saw Sled

This Rockler crosscut sled has a large protractor with readable angle markings to make accurate cuts. Each angle adjusts in half-inch increments and a hairline indicator ensures an error-free setup.

It also has a heavy-duty aluminum fence with smooth-sliding components to increase your cutting versatility. The fence measures 25 inches long and 3 inches high. The table is 0.50 inches thick with a melamine coating to protect the surface. It is also oversized, so you can cut it down to size to fit your table saw.

If you want a sled that will enable you to make angled cuts with ease, this is a great choice.

Pros

  • Half-inch increments
  • 25-inch aluminum fence
  • Large protractor
  • Can be cut down to size

Cons

  • Expensive

Product Specs

MDF fence length 27 inches
Table dimensions (inches) 23.75 x 23.75 x 0.50
Material Aluminum, MDF, melamine
Fence length 25 inches
Price $$$

Our Ratings

Compatibility
4 / 5
Material Quality
4.5 / 5
Functionality
4.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Types of Table Saw Accessories

Table saws are designed primarily for making rip cuts but there is far more to them. They are versatile tools and adding the right attachments can expand your options significantly. Let’s take a quick look at some of the most popular table saw accessories.

  • Table Saw Stand: If you want to use your table saw at a comfortable height, it is important to place it on a stable, level base to ensure it is safe to use.
  • Blades: You should always use the right saw blade for a specific task if you want to make smooth, accurate cuts. This generally means blades with fewer, larger teeth for softer materials.
  • Fence: A table saw fence helps you align the workpiece you are cutting and guides it as the material moves through the blade.
  • Sled: A table saw sled is placed in the miter-gauge slots and helps guides the stock toward the blade. It is ideal if you need to make 45 and 90-degree angled cuts.
  • Miter Gauge: A miter gauge holds the stock in place while you make angled cuts for improved accuracy.
  • Safety Set: A safety set makes your table saw safer to use and means it will be more beginner-friendly.
  • Push Block: Push blocks are used to push the material you are cutting through the blade while keeping your hands at a safe distance.
  • Throat Plate: A throat plate makes it easier to access the saw blade and prevents chunks of wood from falling into the opening where the blade sits.
  • Featherboard: A featherboard holds the workpiece against the saw’s fence by applying pressure to it.
  • Safety Switch: Often referred to as a bump switch, this is a prominent safety switch that can be pressed to immediately shut off the saw in case of an emergency.
  • Dust Collector: Sawdust can contain hazardous materials that will cause lung damage if inhaled. An effective dust collection system will remove the majority of this dust, protecting your lungs and keeping your workshop clean.
  • Clearance Insert: A clearance insert closes the gap on your old metal insert and reduces the likelihood of tear-outs while cutting.
  • Splitter: A splitter sits behind the saw blade and prevents the material from pinching together after being cut, which is one of the leading causes of kickbacks.
  • Angle Gauge: An angle gauge will help you precisely adjust the blade to a specific angle. This will improve the accuracy of your cuts.
  • Link-Belt: A link belt won’t warp or stiffen, which will reduce how much your table saw and blade vibrate during use. This will improve your accuracy and finish.
  • Extension: A table extension will increase your cutting capacity, enabling you to cut larger pieces without needing to buy a bigger saw unit.
  • Dado Blade Set: Dado blades are designed specifically for cutting dadoes.
  • Mobile Base: Unlike a table saw stand, which is stationary, a mobile base has wheels to make it easier to maneuver.

How to Choose Accessories for Your Table Saw

There are two broad categories of table saw accessories. Some accessories will improve your table saw’s performance and the quality of its finish, while others will make it safer or easier to use.

Blades

You will have a seemingly endless amount of options when choosing a blade for your table saw. Each blade is designed for specific materials, whether you are cutting wood, metal, plastic, or something else.

The number of teeth per inch a blade has, usually abbreviated to TPI, will give a good sense of how a blade can be used. Here is a quick chart to help you choose:

Blade Type TPI Number of Teeth Suitable For
Coarse 3 to 8 40 to 60 Lumber, hardwood, softwood, MDF
Medium 8 to 18 60 to 80 Lumber, hardwood, softwood, MDF, plyboard, sheet metals
Fine 18 to 32 80 to 120 Plyboard, frames, sheet material, non-ferrous metal

Take Note

A good general-purpose blade will have 60 to 80 teeth. If you don’t want to swap your blade frequently, this should be suitable for most cutting tasks.

Rip Fence

To make rip cuts, you will need a rip fence. This will help you make cuts accurately, as well as hold the material in place when making crosscuts. Without a fence, you won’t be able to cut wood safely and accurately.

Dust Collection

Sawdust can be toxic, especially when cutting some manmade woods such as multi-density fiberboard (MDF). The best table saws have effective dust collection systems to extract and store this debris safely. This dust collection could be a simple dust bag that sits below the table and collects anything that falls into it, or a dust port that connects to a workshop vacuum to suck the dust away, which is far more effective.

Extension/Outfeed Table

If you want to increase your table saw’s cutting capacity to cut larger pieces of material, consider adding a table extension or an outfeed table. This will help you work with longer pieces without the risk of the stock snapping under its own weight.

It will also improve safety and accuracy as it will keep the workpiece stable as you cut it. The good news is that outfeed tables are compatible with all makes and models of table saw, even if you own an older saw.

Safety

Most modern table saws include all the safety features you would expect. These include automatic shut-off switches, a riving knife, anti-kickback pawls, brakes, and blade guards. However, if you own an older saw, you may lack some of these features.

To protect yourself while using a table saw, you can add some safety accessories separately. A riving knife sits behind the blade and holds the material apart to prevent kickbacks. Zero-clearance inserts eliminate the gap between the blade and the saw throat, preventing small pieces of debris from becoming wedged in the recess.

Push blocks keep your hands away from the blade as you feed the stock. This is especially useful when making thin cuts, where your hands would otherwise be close to the blade.

Some of the most popular safety accessories include:

  • Anti-kickback pawls
  • Splitters
  • Blade guards
  • Sensors
  • Magnetic switches

FAQs

What is the Most Common Cause of Table Saw Injuries?

A literature search revealed that most table-saw accidents result in finger and thumb injuries. The primary causes of these injuries are operator error, such as not wearing gloves or not using the proper technique when cutting materials.

Other causes include an improperly set up and maintained saw, using dull or worn-out blades, improper use of push sticks, incorrect cutting techniques, and foreign objects in the wood being cut.

Should You Wax the Top of a Table Saw?

Waxing the top of your table saw is a great way to ensure smooth operation and long-term stability. Waxing provides a layer of protection against moisture, dirt, and other debris that can accumulate over time, which can cause premature wear on the table saw’s surface.

Additionally, it can keep the blade from binding or sticking, creating dangerous situations when cutting materials. Regularly waxing your table saw will help extend its life and keep it running smoothly for years to come.

Should You Wear Gloves When Using a Table Saw?

It is important to never wear gloves when working with a table saw. Gloves can become entangled in the blade, which can cause serious injury.

Additionally, gloves may prevent the operator from having a firm grip on the material being cut, leading to kickback or missed cuts resulting in further potential harm.

Plus, wearing gloves can be distracting and reduce sensitivity during operations, causing a lapse in concentration that can result in serious accidents. For these reasons, it is important to never wear gloves when operating a table saw.

Does OSHA Require Table Saw Guards?

OSHA requires guards for table saws to ensure the safety of operators. Guarding the blade helps protect operators from coming into contact with it, which prevents serious injuries such as lacerations and amputations.

Guards also help limit exposure to dust particles that can harm an operator’s lungs, eyes, skin, and overall health. Finally, guards restrict access to the blade so it cannot be started unintentionally, helping protect operators and bystanders alike.

Can You Use WD-40 on a Table Saw?

Despite its general lack of recommendation, WD-40 can be used on a table saw in some cases. It is important to use extra caution when doing this, as the substance can increase the chance of kickback or other accidents if not properly applied.

If you decide to use WD-40 on your table saw, make sure it is used sparingly and only on flat surfaces such as the body of the saw itself.

Only use WD-40, specifically designed for metal surfaces, to ensure that it doesn’t damage the surface or leave residues that could lead to further problems down the line.

But, some people will advise against using WD-40 on a table saw as it can damage the finish and make it difficult to clean. They claim WD-40 is not designed to lubricate metal, so it will not provide any real benefit in terms of performance or safety.

What Is the Most Important Table Saw Safety Accessory?

Push sticks and push blocks are the two most important safety accessories when operating a table saw. Push sticks help you keep your hands away from the spinning blade, while push blocks hold material firmly in place as it is being pushed through the saw.

Both of these accessories allow for safer and more accurate cutting, which can help reduce any potential risks in using a table saw. Be sure always to use them when working with your table saw to ensure that you are as safe and protected as possible.


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About the Author

Mark Weir

Mark spent 24 years working in real estate, so he knows his way around a home. He also worked with contractors and experts, advising them on issues of planning, investments, and renovations. Mark is no stranger to hands-on experience, having renovated his own home and many properties for resale. He likes nothing better than seeing a project through to completion.