No, radial arm saws are not outdated. Despite the fact that these tools have been around for decades, they can still be extremely useful for woodworking and carpentry projects. They are capable of making clean and precise cuts and can be perfect for larger projects that require multiple pieces of wood to be accurately cut from a single board.
Radial arm saws may also be able to handle longer lengths of wood than more modern tools like table saws, and offer more powerful motor options than their more compact counterparts. Additionally, many past models are still available in the used market at very reasonable prices if you are looking to upgrade from an entry-level saw.
For those looking for professional level capabilities without the high cost of new tools, a used tool can offer a great alternative.
What has replaced the radial arm saw?
The radial arm saw has been largely replaced by the compound miter saw for a number of reasons. Compound miter saws are typically more accurate, offer better dust control, and require less setup and maintenance than radial arm saws.
Their use of a circular saw blade also makes them safer to use than radial arm saws, which use a long, straight blade. Compound miter saws also have a much smaller footprint than radial arm saws, making them ideal for use in tight spaces and on the jobsite.
Finally, compound miter saws are generally more affordable than radial arm saws, making them more accessible to hobbyists and DIYers. Because of all these advantages, the compound miter saw is now the go-to tool for most woodworkers and carpenters.
Does Dewalt still make radial arm saws?
Yes, Dewalt still makes radial arm saws. They have recently released a newer version of the saw, which features more powerful motor and a more efficient blade system. The saw also has a number of other features, such as a dust extraction system and a laser guide for improved cutting accuracy.
Additionally, the saw comes with a three-year limited warranty, which covers any defects in material or workmanship.
Is it worth having a radial arm saw?
Yes, a radial arm saw is definitely worth having because of the many advantages it provides. Radial arm saws are larger, more powerful, and more accurate than traditional table saws, which makes them perfect for use in a professional workshop or for large-scale DIY projects.
They can be used for a wide range of cuts, including miters, bevels, dados, rabbets, and tenons. Radial arm saws also make it easy to make fine, precision cuts without the use of measuring tools, which can save time and effort.
Furthermore, they are typically more affordable than traditional table saws. So, if you’re looking for a more versatile saw with more accuracy and power at a lower price, a radial arm saw is definitely worth having.
What is the average cost of a radial arm saw?
The average cost of a radial arm saw can vary greatly depending on the size, brand, and accessories. Smaller versions can range from $200-500, while larger commercial grade versions can range from $500-3,000.
For example, the Delta 36-725 20-Inch variable speed radial arm saw is priced around $900. Packages including variable speed and extra accessories such as saw blades and miter gauges can run a little higher.
It is important to do some shopping around and read product reviews before making a purchase.
Is a radial arm saw better than a table saw?
The answer to this question depends on the intended use and the user’s preferences and needs. A radial arm saw is different from a table saw in that its arm moves in an arc pattern, usually across the edge of a table fixture, allowing a wider range of angles and cuts to be made.
It also has a greater depth of cut, making it better suited for particular projects.
Some of the advantages of a radial arm saw are that they can often perform more complex cuts, such as arched or curved cuts, dovetail joints, or miters. The greater depth of cut means that a thicker material can be cut, and the arm allows for better control of the cut direction and depth.
In addition, they are generally easier to move and position than a table saw.
On the other hand, a table saw is often preferred for more precise cuts, as the table is often supported by a fence, allowing for more accuracy in the cut. Table saws are generally smaller than radial arm saws, and can be used for smaller projects with less material.
Some cuts can be made on both types of saws, though a radial arm saw is more finely suited for larger, more complex cuts.
In conclusion, it is difficult to determine which saw is better, as it depends on the user’s requirements and preferences. Both types of saws can provide accurate results, but a radial arm saw may be more suitable for larger projects with more complex cuts, while a table saw is often preferred for more precise cuts.
Can you rip wood with a radial arm saw?
Yes, you can rip wood with a radial arm saw. Radial arm saws are specialized tools with a circular blade mounted to the end of a swing arm that can be adjusted to accommodate various depths and angles of cuts.
As a result, they are great for making rip cuts, which are long cuts made along the wood’s grain. The arm of the saw can be rotated and adjusted to make the rip cut, while the blade’s height and the swing arm’s angle are both adjustable.
This allows for precision when making the rip cut. Additionally, because the blade is mounted rather than free-standing, it is easier to make exact cuts. When using a radial arm saw for rip cuts, remember to double check your measurements and use caution to ensure a clean and precise cut.
Why were Craftsman radial arm saws recalled?
Craftsman radial arm saws were recalled in October 2015 due to a potential injury hazard. The recall was issued by the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, which was aware of at least 10 reported cases of the blade guard not functioning properly and subsequently posing a risk of serious injury.
There have been reports of the blade guard detaching during operation, resulting in the blade becoming exposed and posing a risk of laceration.
In addition to the reports of danger, Craftsman recalled around 4 million radial arm saws in order to repair a malfunctioning voltage switch and reduce the potential for electric shock injury. The recalled saws were sold between 1958 and 2016 at various retailers, including Ace Hardware, Home Depot, and Walmart.
Sears and Kmart customers were urged to stop using recalled saws immediately and return them to the store for a free repair. For those who had already filed an incident report with the commission, they were offered a monetary refund.
What is the difference between radial arm saw and miter saw?
The radial arm saw and miter saw are both saws that are used to make accurate cross, miter, and bevel cuts. However, there are several differences between the two saws.
The radial arm saw is a large, versatile tool which is commonly used to make cuts in lumber, particle board, and plywood. The radial arm saw is similar to a chop saw and uses a motor-driven arm which holds a circular saw blade.
It is connected through a long arm which can be lowered and raised to adjust the angles of the cut. It is mostly used for ripping, crosscutting, and miter sawing.
The miter saw, on the other hand, is a stationary power saw which is used for cutting angles. It consists of a circular saw blade which pivots left and right, allowing for precision miter cuts. Making accurate miter and bevel cuts require the blade to be precisely aligned with the fence and the rotating blade can be easily adjusted.
It is mostly used for making crosscuts and miter cuts.
In conclusion, the differences between radial arm saw and miter saw are that the radial arm saw has a long arm which can be lowered and raised to adjust the angle of the cut, while the miter saw has a pivotable circular saw blade that can be easily adjusted.
Furthermore, the radial arm saw is mostly used for ripping and crosscutting, while the miter saw is mostly used for making crosscuts and miter cuts.