When woodworking, precision is key for both accurate projects and safety. The table saw fence is one of the most important pieces of equipment to ensure both precision and safety. The table saw fence is a piece of metal that runs alongside the saw blade and causes the blade to cut smoothly.
Looking for general information about table saws and other tools? Our complete resource guide on Miter Saws, Table Saws, Chainsaws, Band Saws, and Circular Saws is available. These guides have all the information you need. These guides will provide you with history, information on the different types of the tool and top brands sold.
Table Saw Fence Reviews
There are many brands of table saw fences. It is possible to buy a table saw fence from a popular brand (such as Craftsman) and then upgrade it later with a fence from another brand to enhance its functionality.
Incra Table Saw Fence
Since 1987, Incra is a trusted name in power tools accessories and power tools. The table saw fence is made of a strong structural design and has an automatic position control that allows for positioning manipulation within 0.002 inches.
What We Like
- Large micro-adjust knob: The knob has a 0.0025mm resolution for improved accuracy and repeatability while cutting.
- Precision and accuracy: Measurement and cutting precision is not only important for the appearance of a finished product, but also for structural integrity.
- Simple setup: This table saw fence installation is easy compared to other fence models. Even a novice carpenter should not have any problems.
What We Dont Like
- Space hog: This fence takes up a lot of room in the workshop, with a 305 cm footprint at its largest adjustment.
- Medium-range durability/rigidity Not as good as a T square fence.
- Removal can be a hassle. Although installing a fence is usually not a problem, it can be difficult to take it down again.
Delta Table Saw Fence
One of the most well-known table saw fences is the Delta Table Saw Fence. Also known as a Biesemeyer Fence. This fence is often used to upgrade different types of table saws. Not just the Delta systems.
What We Like
- Superior locking capability: The three-point locking system on this fence is one of the nations leading fences with regards to this feature.
- Instructions for setup are clear: This makes installation of the fence easy.
- Easy-grip handle: The easy-grip handle means that this table saw wont slip mid-cut. It is held in place by a magnet when in use.
- Longevity Many older versions of this fence system still work today, many decades after their design. This is a serious testament to their durability and quality.
What We Do Not Like
- Chinese manufacturing has hurt the brand: Delta moved its manufacturing overseas to China. According to many consumers, this has seriously impacted both their shipping quality and the quality of their products overall.
- Repair is a hassle: Replacement parts for the Delta fence can be hard to source. So if it breaks, you may end up having to buy another one. Because parts are hard to find, many machinist techs do not want to work on them either.
- No local parts availability: Many retail outlets will not carry this brand due to a lack of spare and replacement parts.
Craftsman Table Saw Fence
Craftsman Table Saws are a well-known mid-line tablesaw. The stock fence that comes with the full table saw assembly is decent. Many woodworkers choose to replace it or upgrade it.
What We Like
- Quick release: This cuts down on the time it takes to adjust the fence positioning.
- Locking mechanism: The locking mechanism that comes standard on the Craftsman table saw is adequate, and thats about all you can say for it.
What We Do Not Like
- A very basic model: The stock Craftsman Fence doesn’t have many of the bells or whistles that other aftermarket fences do.
- Size limitations: The small size of the stock fence and the reduced rip capacity that comes with it makes it difficult to manipulate larger pieces on the table saw.
The stock Craftsman fence is adequate for minor woodworking projects. However, many woodworkers who use the Craftsman table saw end up eventually upgrading their fence to something with a larger rip capacity. The standard fence on this table saw is considered a little too small.
Here are some of the fence upgrades commonly used on Craftsman table saws:
- Shark Guard: Shark Guard is a popular fence product that Craftsman tablesaws use. They can also be used on many other table saws. One of the greatest advantages of the Shark Guard is that if you dont see an available guard for your table saws model number, theyll customize one for you.
- SawStop: Sawstop is a producer of top tier woodworking safety accessories. The fence system can be used to replace the stock fence on Craftsman tablesaw systems. The Sawstop is compatible with many routing accessories.
- A Precision Alignment & Locking System (PALS), if you require absolute rigidity and precision when performing your cuts, then a PALS could be a good option. This model fits Craftsman tablesaws.
DIY Table Saw Fences
The advantages of building your own table saw fence are that it is more cost-effective in most cases than buying a preconstructed one. You can also customize it as you see fit in order to facilitate routing accessories and other idiosyncrasies of your particular woodshop.
The disadvantage of building your own table saw fence is that youll be the only person responsible for making sure the device both aligns and locks down securely for safety. This means precise measurements and assembly are crucial for a decent finished product.
What Is A Table Saw Fence System?
Table saw fence systems are one of the most important aspects of a table saw. This is because they allow woodworkers to make cuts both accurately and repetitively.
This means that the fence is responsible to ensure that each cut is exactly the same. This improves the aesthetic quality and beauty of the woodwork.
Table saw fences arent only important because they increase the quality of the carpentry they help perform. They are also important for safety. They prevent kickbacks from your saw. Kickback occurs when the saw does not cut smoothly.
Table saw fences of high quality combine precision adjustment and a square and true bar. It is important to be able to position the table saw easily. As is the ability to transport the table saw easily with a fence attached. When upgrading a table saw fence, youll also want to be looking for maximum ripping capability to woodwork with large pieces.
Final Thoughts On Table Saw Fences
For safety in the woodworking shop, a table saw fence is practically vital. Out of all the fences available, I would choose an Incra tablesaw fence. This is due to its durability and rigidity. The second option is to build my own.
No matter which table saw fence you choose, make sure to carefully read the reviews of customers before making a decision. Theyll often tell you a lot about a product that the company wouldnt tell you themselves.
