Yes, Dewalt still makes radial arm saws. They have been making them for decades and they have become one of the most popular saws for professional and amateur woodworkers alike. The Dewalt Radial Arm Saw is an incredibly versatile saw that can perform a variety of different cutting tasks, from ripping long boards to making precise miters and long compound cuts.
The saw is also capable of slicing through thick pieces of wood, thanks to its powerful motor, and it has a solid cast iron body that makes it sturdy and durable, giving users years of reliable service.
Additionally, Dewalt’s range of accessories, such as blades and hitches, make the saw even more versatile for the user. While radial arm saws aren’t as popular as they once were, Dewalt’s saw continues to be a favorite among professional and hobbyist woodworkers alike, who appreciate its reliable performance and versatility.
What happened to the radial arm saw?
The radial arm saw was a popular woodworking tool in the 1950s, but by the year 2000 its popularity had greatly declined. This was due to the introduction of more advanced power tools, such as the circular saw, miter saw and other modern tools.
The radial arm saw was a stationary tool that sat on a table, and it could be used to make cross, rip, miter and bevel cuts in a variety of materials. It was bulky, slow and often required the user to make manual adjustments, making it a less attractive option than modern, more powerful machines.
The diminishing demand for radial arm saws in recent years has caused many manufacturers to discontinue production and sale of these tools. Despite this, some radial arm saws remain sold as vintage pieces, and some DIY enthusiasts may still use them for specific applications.
Are radial arm saws still available?
Yes, radial arm saws are still available. You can find them for sale in your local hardware store or online. They make a great addition to any workshop, as they can make long, clean, precise cuts in a variety of materials.
Radial arm saws are usually more expensive than other saws, but they offer a lot of power, control, and precision. Depending on the model, they can be used to make miter cuts, beveled cuts, and even make crosscuts.
Some models also offer an adjustable head and table, so you can make even more precise cuts. So, if you are looking for an accurate, powerful saw to add to your workshop, a radial arm saw is definitely worth looking into.
When was my radial arm saw made?
Your radial arm saw was most likely made between the 1950’s and late 1980’s. Radial arm saws were invented in the 1920’s but have undergone numerous improvements over the years, which can make it difficult to pinpoint the exact date an individual saw was manufactured.
The best way to determine when your saw was made is to look for a model or serial number located on the saw’s nameplate. If you find one, you may be able to search online for the corresponding information to determine its age.
Additionally, if you have the original instruction manual for your saw, you might be able to reference the date it was printed — this may give you an estimate of when your saw was made.
Why are radial arm saws not popular?
Radial arm saws used to be very popular years ago, but now, for various reasons, they aren’t as commonplace as before. One of the most significant drawbacks to the radial arm saw is its size and weight; these saws tend to be bulky and take up considerable space in the shop.
In addition, they can be difficult to move and transport, which makes them unsuitable for mobile woodworking jobs.
Another reason why radial arm saws are not popular is that they are more difficult to use than other types of saws. They require much more setup time, and those with little experience may need help to make accurate and precise cuts.
They also require more maintenance than other types of saws, making them less reliable.
Finally, radial arm saws are noisier than other saws, which can be an annoyance in some areas. While these saws can get the job done quickly, the loud noise can in some cases be loud enough to be heard outside the shop.
This can be a nuisance for those working in residential areas.
Overall, radial arm saws are not as popular due to their size, weight, difficulty of use, and required maintenance, as well as their loud noise.
Is it worth having a radial arm saw?
Overall, having a radial arm saw can be a wise investment for many people, depending on what type of woodworking projects you plan to tackle. Radial arm saws provide a great deal of capability and power to complete jobs that would be difficult or impossible with traditional saws.
They also tend to be very versatile, as they can be used to make not only straight cuts, but also compound cuts, miter cuts, miters on bevels, and rabbet cuts. These saws are also potent enough to even rip through hardwood and pressure-treated lumber with ease.
Additionally, the blade can be changed out to tackle different tasks, and in many cases, a variety of blades can be used.
Radial arm saws can be expensive, however, and a quality saw will easily set you back several hundred dollars. If you are a professional carpenter or a serious hobbyist, however, such an expense can be well worth it.
You often get what you pay for in the case of a radial arm saw, so putting in the funds for a quality saw will pay dividends in the future. Ultimately, having a radial arm saw can save you a lot of time and money in the long run if you plan on making a lot of complex cuts.
Why were Craftsman radial arm saws recalled?
Craftsman radial arm saws were recalled because they posed a serious laceration risk to individuals using them. A design defect in some radial arm saws made in 1993 caused the front of the saw to lower unexpectedly during its travel path, potentially placing the user’s arms or wrists in danger.
This led to the recall of thousands of Craftsman radial arm saws in February 1994. After the recall, Craftsman redesigned their radial arm saws to have an adjustable locking mechanism that prevents the saw head from lowering when on its travel path.
They agreed to repair or replace free of charge any recalled radial arm saws. The improvements made to the radial arm saws were intended to prevent any further occurrence of this serious safety hazard.
Is a radial arm saw better than a table saw?
The answer to this question really depends on a number of factors, including the type of work you need to do and your skill level. Generally speaking, a radial arm saw can cut faster than a table saw, making it a good choice for those who need to make a lot of cuts quickly.
Radial arm saws also tend to be more accurate and can cut deeper than a table saw, making them a great choice for more intricate or precise cuts. On the other hand, table saws are often more convenient to use, since they are smaller, wider, and can fit in tighter spaces.
They can also be used in tandem with other saws, such as jigsaws, to make a variety of cuts. Ultimately, both radial arm saws and table saws have their own unique advantages, so it really comes down to personal preference.
What is the difference between radial arm saw and miter saw?
Radial arm saws and miter saws are both saws used in carpentry and woodworking. The main difference between them is the purpose they’re used for and the cutting action they have.
A radial arm saw is designed to make long rips cuts, cross cuts, and even plunge cuts, and it can also be used to make bevel cuts, miter cuts, and compound cuts. It has a motor mounted to the back of the saw and a single long arm that is attached to the motor and runs along a track.
The motor causes the blade to move in a circular motion, which allows it to make rip and cross cuts.
A miter saw, on the other hand, is specifically designed to make angled cuts. It has a motor mounted to the base and a round saw arm that swings back and forth along its track. The motor causes the blade to make a quick back-and-forth motion that is better suited for accurately making cuts at various angles.
It is a great tool for making miter joint cuts, cope joints, and angle cuts.
Overall, a radial arm saw is a more versatile saw for cutting larger pieces of wood, while a miter saw is the top choice for making specialized cuts at various angles.
How do you make a radial arm saw table top?
Making a radial arm saw table top is not terribly difficult and can vary depending on the size and shape of the radial saw itself.
First, measure the size of the saw and its arm. Then, following the saw’s instructions, mark out a template of the saw’s position on the saw’s table top. It is important that your template accurately represents the saw in order for your measurements to be correct.
Next, you will need to pick the material for your table top. Plywood, particle board, and medium-density fiberboard (MDF) all make good materials for table tops.
Once the material is chosen, cut the top to the shape of your template, making sure to leave at least 1/4 inch of allowance for a nice fit. You may also need to make a few notches to allow the saw arm to pass through the table top.
Now it’s time to attach the saw. First, place the saw arm into the notches of the top and secure it with screws. With the saw arm screwed in, you can now attach the saw’s base to the table top by drilling the appropriate holes and inserting screws.
Finally, it’s time to add a few finishing touches. Choose your favourite stain or paint colour to give it a nice finish that blends in with your shop. You might also consider adding a few accessories like featherboards and miter slots for ultimate accuracy.
When it’s all finished, your new radial arm saw table top will be ready for use. You can now start using it for all of your woodworking projects.
Where is serial number on Craftsman radial arm saw?
The serial number on a Craftsman radial arm saw can usually be found on a sticker or metal plate located on the main body or arm of the saw. To locate it, start by unplugging the saw from any power sources and tipping it on its side to get a better view of the main body or arm.
You may have to remove any panels or guards to gain access. Once you have located the sticker or metal plate, the serial number should be easy to find as it will likely be labeled. If you have any difficulties locating the serial number, consult your owner’s manual for detailed instructions.
How do you rip with a Craftsman radial arm saw?
Ripping with a Craftsman radial arm saw is a relatively simple task. To do so, you will need to ensure that your saw is set up correctly and properly sharpened. Once you have done this, you can start ripping your board.
Begin by setting the saw blade so that it is parallel to the board you want to rip. You may want to adjust the length of the blade slightly at this point so that it will easily be able to cut through the entire length of the board.
Make sure the blade is firmly bolted in place and free from any wood or debris.
Next, adjust the height of the blade so that it is set just above the thickness of the board you are cutting. Make sure to tighten the knob or bolt at the back of the radial arm saw after adjusting the height.
Now you are ready to start ripping. You should start the saw before you make your initial cut, which will help ensure that you are making a clean cut. Push the board against the saw and cut slowly, ensuring that you are following the line you intended to cut.
As you approach the end of your cut, you may have to slow the blade down even further. After the cut is complete, you can turn off your saw and then remove the board.
By following these simple steps, you should be able to successfully rip your board with your Craftsman radial arm saw in no time.
How can I tell how old my Craftsman tools are?
To tell how old Craftsman tools are, you will need to look for specific symbols and numbers on the tool itself. Some Craftsman tools have visible markings, such as a 4- or 5-digit serial number located on the bottom or side of the tool – this will tell you the age of the tool; the higher the number the newer the tool.
If the tool doesn’t have any visible markings, there are certain key design features which could provide a rough estimate of when the tool was made. For example, on Craftsman ratchets made prior to 1950, the logo was a “Hot Air Balloon”, and ratchets made after 1950, the logo changed to a “C” with a white background.
Additionally, the screw face design on wrenches changed over time; prior to 1930 it was a cone, from 1930 to 1975 it had 12 points, and between 1975 and 1989 it is a hexagon. Other features such as the material type and style of the handle can provide clues to the age of the tool.
By looking for visual clues and reading up on the time periods for specific designs, you should be able to determine a range for when the tool was made.
What does the V mean on Craftsman tools?
The “V” appearing on Craftsman tools stands for “Versatile,” which means these tools are designed to be strong and robust enough for a number of tough jobs. Craftsman hand tools feature a variety of unique features like nibbed handles for better grip and control, steel striking caps for added durability and strength, and open-toothed beveled-edge wrenches for fast ratcheting.
All of these features combined create a tool that is versatile in its abilities for taking on a range of tasks both big and small. Craftsman also provides a lifetime warranty that covers any tool that fails to perform its intended job due to a defect in materials or workmanship.
Regardless of the task, you can trust that Craftsman tools will stand up to any job.
Do Craftsman tools have serial numbers?
Yes, Craftsman tools have serial numbers. This is an important feature as it helps customers identify their tools when registering warranties or requesting replacements. The serial numbers can usually be found on the tool’s body or handle.
For example, lawn mowers have the number printed on the deck or motor, while hand tools might have it stamped on the handle. Often, there’s a 6 or 7 digit number that helps identify the product, manufacturing facility, and the year it was made.
Having the serial number is extremely helpful when trying to get a replacement part for a tool. It’s also beneficial for registering the warranty.
Why do people not like radial arm saws?
Radial arm saws can be dangerous tools to use, and they require a good amount of safety precautions and training before operating them. They usually carry a lot of power, and can cause injury if not handled properly.
Additionally, as a stationary tool, they can be prone to kick-back when a board is inserted at an incorrect angle and the blade ends up binding in the material. This can cause the board to suddenly jump back at the user, which can be very dangerous.
The saw also generates a lot of dust and debris, which can be a hazard to the operator. Finally, the maintenance required for radial arm saws is often bothersome and time consuming, particularly when it comes to regularly changing the blade and tracks.