Those who are familiar with woodworking are probably well acquainted with table saws. Just in case you do not know what a table saw is, it is a tool that woodworkers use for cutting wood. It is essentially a flat table with a protruding, motorized, circular blade installed perpendicular to the surface of the table. It is a precision tool that helps cut wood quickly and precisely.
For the most reliable accuracy, they make use of table saw fences, which align the wood parallel against the blade for proper cuts. It is the second most important part of a table saw, after the blade.
Most table saws come with a pre-installed fence. But if you find that your table saw fence is lacking in features or has been damaged, you can always get a new one. In this article, you will find a list of the best table saw fences available. If you are looking for a new fence to install on your table saw, we hope you will find this a helpful read.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Table Saw Fences
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Table Saw Fences
Comparison of the Best Table Saw Fences
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Our Top Pick |
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Best Budget Option |
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What Purpose Does a Table Saw Fence Serve?
Table saws are basically used to rip large panels of wood into the desired length and shape. For an easy, safe, and accurate operation, the fence is a very useful component.
It is worth noting that the importance of table saw fence is often debated. Some people believe that it is unnecessary, and working without a fence is the sign of a good woodworker. Others argue that it is vital for safe and easy operation. Putting aside these subjective views, when installed properly, a table saw fence serves a number of purposes:
It Serves as a Guide
A table saw fence is basically a guide that is used for obtaining smooth, precise, and even cuts. It helps the user cut the wood in perfect straight cuts. It is engraved with markings that aid the woodworker check the alignment of the wood he is ripping. It is also important for adjusting the length and width of the cut.
Provides Safety
It gives protection to the worker's fingers by keeping them out of the blade's line of fire. It locks the wood in position so it does not move while cutting. It is also useful in preventing dangerous kickbacks that happen when the wood is cut across or at angles.
Improves the Quality of Work
It is especially useful for huge loads of wood cutting work. Once set at a specific cut, it can easily perform the same cut repeatedly. Doing so increases the operator's speed and efficiency.
How to Choose a Table Saw Fence
Table saw fences are an important accessory. You should pay proper consideration before getting one for yourself. Even if you have a great table saw, if you lack a proper fence, cutting wood will become a daunting task. Unless you are an expert woodcutter, you will produce low-quality, rough, and inaccurate cuts. Some of the most important features of a good table saw fence are discussed below.
Safety
The first and foremost thing to consider when buying a table saw fence is the percentage of safety it offers. It should keep the wood parallel to the blade hence stopping your fingers from coming in direct contact with the blade. It should also lock the wood in a secure position so that the table saw does not kickback dangerously when you attempt to cut the wood at an angle or across.
Measuring Scales
A fence determines the accuracy and precision of the cuts you make. It should have accurate measuring scales that help you determine the accuracy of the cuts. The precision-measuring scales are also important for adjusting the length and width of the cuts.
Alignment
A good table saw fence must properly align with your table saw. Most table saw fences fail at perfectly aligning the wood with the blade of the saw. Look for a fence that provides perfect alignment and does not budge when you decide to repeat the same cuts.
Installation Ease
Nobody likes a difficult installation job. A good table saw fence is very easy to install. If you are looking for added features, remember that they come at a price of difficult installation and usage.
Dimensions
Always consider the dimensions of your table saw before deciding on a particular fence. You can get the best fence, but if it does not fit your table saw, then it is useless. Get a fence that not only suits your needs but also accommodates the size of your table saw.
Quick Take - Best Table Saw Fences
In a hurry? Here are the best table saw fences:
Review of the Best Table Saw Fences
To help you pick only the best model, we've reviewed some of the top table saw fences available today in depth. Make sure to choose wisely!
Best Overall:
Shop Fox W2005
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers are very satisfied with the performance of the table saw fence. It is easy to install and operate. The only problem arising was with the alignment of predrilled holes, but most customers were able to drill holes at their desired spots, so not much harm is done. Also, the packing it comes in is not suitable for such a heavy product. The low-quality Styrofoam tears because of the heavy weight, and some people have reported small parts going missing because of this. Other than that, it has certainly managed to impress its buyers.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This table saw fence stands out as the best product in our list. It is designed for easy installation and removal with a single lever locking it in its place. It is put through rigorous high-quality tests to improve its safety. Painted with powder coated paint, it is a durable and reliable product that will provide you the best assistance during table saw operations.
Who Will Use it the Most
This product is suitable for all types of woodworkers, whether newbie or professional. It is especially advantageous for people who have recently started woodwork and cannot make a precise cut all by themselves yet. It is so versatile in functioning that even expert woodworkers will find great uses for this product.
Bottom Line
This product is certainly a great table fence. It is easy to install and operate. It's a versatile product that can easily fix on almost every table saw, old or new. With optional rails, it gives proper consideration to the unique requirements of its customers. It also comes with a drill bit and tap. It has a classic one lever lock design that can be disengaged by simply lifting it off the table saw. Ignoring the packing issue, it really is the best fence you can get your hands on.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
People who bought this table saw fence praise it for its versatile installation option. A solid metal base makes it strong and durable but needs proper packing for shipment to avoid dents or scratches. It works nicely and stays square reducing the kickback factor. The lack of brackets has disappointed some buyers.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This product stands out to us because of its durability and strength. A strong metallic design enables it for heavy-duty function. Its inclusiveness also sets it apart by enabling it to adjust on almost every kind of table saw. It is quick and easy to install with a small installation period of 15 minutes only. All these features have made it the runner-up on our list.
Who Will Use it the Most
Woodworkers who perform loads of heavy-duty work will surely benefit from using this product. It is comparatively light on the budget, so people looking for an economical, high-quality table saw fence would also use it. It is sturdy and strong, so people who are new at using table saws will put it to great use.
Bottom Line
Durable and strong, this is a great product that will meet any woodworker's dream. It has a solid metal base with a powder painted finish. It is a versatile product that can fit almost any table saw. Easy to install and operate; it is certainly one of the best products available in the market.
Best for the Money:
Delta Power Equipment Corporation 847962005250
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers are satisfied with this product. It comes with a number of fasteners that ensure easy installation. Once installed, it is quite easy to operate. It fits Delta table saws well. Some complaints it generated are about the packaging it is packed in. Apart from that, users are very satisfied with it.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This product stands out to us because of its cost-effectiveness. A strong metal design renders it durable. The easy-gliding option ensures that you get precise rips and even square cut every time. Its installation is made easy with the three-point locking system that locks it in its position and does not allow it to slide during usage. For its cost, it is a great product which you should get for yourself if it suits your needs.
Who Will Use it the Most
People who are looking for a pocket-friendly fence for their table saw will find it a useful product. People who have a huge load of heavy-duty ripping work on their hands will also put it to great use. Delta table saw owners will also find that it fits perfectly on their saws so they will also benefit from using this product.
Bottom Line
For its price, it is a great table saw fence. When it comes to strength and durability, it is a reliable product that can withstand large loads of woodwork without falling short of its quality. Its twin hairline pointers enable you to make precise cuts of even less than 1 mm width. It can be easily removed to fit on either side of the blade for consistent ripping on both sides. All in all, it's one of the best products in a pocket-friendly range.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers praise this product for its high-quality design and finish. It is fairly easy to install and adjust according to the needs. It fits any 27-inch table saw with ease. It can slide anywhere in the table and is capable of micro-adjusting. Most people are satisfied with its function.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This product stands out to us because of its user-friendliness. It has a fine positioning knob that enables it to be operated by both right and left-handed people. It features a ball bearing in its design that enables it to slide with the touch of a single finger. This makes it the most user-friendly fence on our list of best table saw fences.
Who Will Use it the Most
People who are left-handed will hugely benefit from using this table saw fence. As it supports both handed operations, right-handed people will also find great uses for it. Woodworkers who don't want to put in a lot of effort in adjusting will find its precision knob a great user-friendly feature of this product.
Bottom Line
This is one user-friendly fence for your table saw. Even if you are left-handed, you won't have difficulty using it with your preferred hand. Its precision knob and ball bearing enable it to slide anywhere in the table. Though it might need drilling for new holes for proper installation, once done, it works perfectly and effortlessly. It's a great choice if you are looking for a user-friendly option.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers have reported it as a satisfactory product. It has a sturdy front locking mechanism that foregoes the need for rear attachment. Its precision is guaranteed by the magnified cursor and self-adhesive measuring tape. The packing is held responsible for some denting or lost parts.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This product stands out to us because of its precision. It comes with a magnified cursor and self-adhesive measuring tape to help you get the most precise cuts. Its front locking mechanism is enough to keep it rigid in its place. Any amount of force applied is not enough to budge it from its place. It's a great product to choose from if it meets your requirements.
Who Will Use it the Most
People who are searching for a great fence to upgrade their table saws will find this product to be of great use. People who have a large-sized table saw will also put it to great use. Those who are new to woodwork and want a precise, professional touch to their work will also find this an advantageous upgrade to their table saws.
Bottom Line
This is a sturdy fence for your table saw. It is crafted from aluminum and steel that garner it as a very strong device. It is able to perform a lot of work without wearing out. The magnified cursor and self-adhesive tape serve as a great guide to ensure you get accurate, precise cuts with it every time. Although the instruction manual is not very demonstrative, it is quite easy to install. You should consider this product for yourself if you want a high-quality finish in your work.
Are Fences Important While Using a Table Saw
Fences are quite important while using a table saw; even the most expert woodworkers will admit that. They are precision tools that help you make cuts that are smooth in finish, straight in alignment, and accurate in dimensions. They also work as safety tools by providing a shield for your fingers from the blade. They have a locking system that keeps the wood in position to prevent table saw kickbacks, which can seriously injure you.
They also play an important role in improving your efficiency. Once you set them in accordance with a specific cut, they can perform the same cut again and again without causing a single error. This not only improves your speed but also the quality of the work you are performing on your table saw.
Are All Fences The Same
No, all table saw fences are most definitely not the same. They come in a variety of sizes and features that set them all apart from each other. The best fences are made from high-quality components that make them precise and reliable. They come in differing bar lengths and width capacities, providing a wide range of sizes to choose from.
Alignment is also a distinguishing factor among table saw fences. A high-quality fence always aligns perfectly with the blade while a low-quality one might fail at that. Precision measuring scales are also a dividing factor. A good fence facilitates you with measuring marks, while others are lacking in this aspect.
Aspects to Consider Before Buying
The most important aspect you should consider before buying a table saw fence is your own requirement. Since fences come with a variety of features, you should look for one that specifically suits your own unique needs. For a general idea, we have discussed some of the most sought characteristics of a good table saw fence.
Alignment
The first thing you should consider is the degree of alignment it offers with the table saw blade. It is important for the fence to perfectly align with the blade for you to make accurate and precise cuts.
Size
With a variety of bar lengths and width capacities available, you should consider a fence that fits the size of your table saw. If you get a fence that is larger and smaller than your intended usage, you will have to keep realigning it to fit your usage.
Safety
A good fence protects you from all sorts of dangers that a table saw poses. It protects your fingers from being slaughtered by the blade. It also stops the table saw from kick backing dangerously when you try to cut across the wood or at an angle.
Smoothness
The table saw fence you decide to get for yourself should be smooth, so it does not catch the wood you are cutting on the table saw. A smooth fence means smoother and more precise cuts.
Measurements
Consider getting a table saw fence that has measuring marks on it to ensure same, precise cuts. They also guide you in getting a proper length and width of the wood you are cutting.
Conclusion
Now you have a better idea of what table saw fences are, how they work, and their importance while using a table saw. They are great in assisting you towards smoother and precise cuts, protect you from potential threats that come with a table saw usage, and improve the quality and speed at which you work. From a newbie to a professional expert woodworker, everyone swears by their benefits. You should consider getting one for yourself if your table saw is lacking one or has one that is not up to mark to your requirements. We have provided you a detailed account of the best table saw fences to facilitate you in your hunt for a perfect table saw that suits your needs.