Miter saws are special types of saws that are used to make angled cuts with maximum accuracy and efficiency. For instance, when making picture frames cuts, window casings, among others cuts, miter saws are preferred over regular saws since they can attain the accuracy needed.

Miter saws are crucial tools in every workshop, and every contractor or handyman dedicated to producing high-quality woodwork knows the importance of these saws.

However, selecting the best miter saw that could match your badge, and the type of task you wish to undertake can sometimes be challenging. This is mainly due to a large number of miter saws in the market, and each miter saw has its uses hence merits and demerits.

We have compared at least the top three miter saws to make your selection quite easier. The rewire will also ensure you save your time as well as helping you choose the best saw for your precise angled cutting needs.

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Top 3 Best Miter Saws Reviews For [2020-2021]

1. DEWALT DWS780 12-inch Sliding Compound Miter Saw – Top Pick.

For some good reasons, the Dewalt DWS780 brand has gained the trust of many handymen and contractors over some time. It is the best sliding, and a compound miter saw currently in the market that can allow you to make the most accurate cuts that are necessary for a job site. So far, this 12-inch miter saw is the only model that comes well equipped with a precise miter system, not to mention a handle that makes it more portable in your job site. Additionally, to ensure you complete your project not only efficiently but also faster, this saw features an innovative XPS cross cut positioning gears that make it easy to adjust free cuts instantly.

Being a professional contractor, it means that the durability and power aspects of any miter saw as the most critical aspects I have to consider before a can purchase this tool. For instance, when remodeling a new home. I need assurance that my tools are going to be active throughout the day to maximize my work output effectively. Since the Dewalt DWS780 features a powerful 15-amp, 3800 rpm motor, I am confident it will offer me the durability and power a need in a typical miter saw.

The stainless steel castings on the outer side of this miter saw can withstand the harsh work conditions that are associated with any job site.  In addition to the fantastic durability features that come with this saw, it has an additional feature that improves its cutting process efficiency and accuracy. The Dewalt DWS780 features some of the highest cutting capacities that can allow you to cut over 2 x 16 lumbar pieces and at 90 degrees, not to mention the 2 x 12 at 45 degrees lumbar cutting features.

With the Dewalt DWS780, you can bevel your lumbar from various angles, say from zero up to 49 degrees that also includes stops at multiple points such as 0, 22.5, 33.9, 45, and 49 degrees. The Dewalt DWS780 is your best choice since it provides these cuttings in both directions, not forgetting the own dust collection system that reduces the dust at your workshop. It is the best miter saw available in the market and an essential tool for your workshop.

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2. Makita LS1016L 10-inch Sliding Compound Miter Saw – The Runner-up.

The Makita LS1016L is the second-best miter saw from the Dewalt DWS780. It is relatively smaller when compared with the Dewalt, thus making it the best 10-inch miter saw in the market today. Although it has a shorter blade, it comes with numerous features that add to its greatness features.

For instance, the compact design and lightweight of 53.3 lbs, making it the best lightest saws in the market, thus making it easy for you to move around your working site. The powerful 15 amp direct drive with a capacity of pushing more than 3200 rpm makes this miter saw an exception from the rest. Also, it features a 4- steel rail sliding system that offers an excellent cutting platform.

The six linear ball bearing is one of my favorite feature that comes with this miter saw since makes it easy to create dead-on cuts on the material you are working on each time. The see-through blade guard also facilitates your cutting accuracy since it enables you to see precisely where you are cutting. The laser makes it easy for you to know where the cuts will go to make a precise adjustment both on the right and left. The one-touch miter lock also contributes to your cutting efficiency by making it possible to make quick adjustments.

The Makita miter saw has the capacity of cutting 6-5/8 crown edging and crosscuts when at 90 degrees, It also features an easy to access bevel lock that allows you to rock the saw from say 0 to 45 degree correctly.  It is a great miter saw, although not as much as the cutting ability and power of the Dewalt, thus making it our second best in this list.

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3. DEWALT DW715 Compound Miter Saw – Best Miter Saw for the Money.

The Dewalt DW715 is among the best miter saws that are available at relatively lower prices in the market today. It is mainly designed to suit the needs of every homeowner who isn’t interested in the two of the above powerful miter saws. It provides an excellent and stable cut even though it comes with half the price. Further, its compact and lightweight nature makes it portable in your job site or garage. It is available at 42 pounds hence cheap enough for almost everyone to afford.

The Dewalt DW715 is equipped with a 12-inch carbide knife blade, which is run by s 15-amp motor with a rotation frequency of over 4000RPM. With such a powerful miter saw machine, completing your weekend projects such as molding, cutting flames, miter cutting and cross-cutting becomes very easy.

The good part with this best miter saw is that you get all these quality services at half the price. The saw has a changeable stainless steel detent plate, which can make up to 11 positive stops. It can also cut crown molding pieces, which are 5 inches thicker and nesting moldings, which are 6 inches thick.

The cross-cutting capacity of this saw is two by 8 for parts of lumber. It makes it possible for you to bevel to the left up to 48 degrees but the right only 3 degrees which enables you to make perfects for the value of your money. The Dewalt DW715 is exceptionally perfect for handymen who don’t need the most powerful industrial miter saws. It comes with a three-year limited warranty as well as a one-year free customer service contacts.

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Best Miter Saw Buyer’s Guide.

Some of the most important factors to consider when choosing the right miter saw is its type and size. However, other critical considerations make it easy for you to pick a miter saw that is suitable for your job site’s particular needs.

Amps.

Amps are the unit of measuring the power of a machine hence ensure you have enough of it that suits your need. The most popular is the 15-amp motor among many manufactures. However, a 10-amp motor is suitable for any woodwork for both small and large models says.

Electric Brakes.

These enhance the safety measures of your miter saw. By just pressing this button, the electricity flow is cut or reversed thus stopping the motor instantly,

Blade Guards.

The best choice is the articulated blade guide. The blade guards you safe from the saws way while it is in use by making it possible to see how you are cutting but, at the same time, covering the blade once lifted for use.

Positive Stops.

They are points marked on the miter saw from the manufacturing company to allow the user to make accurate cuts without necessarily having to readjust now and then. The more positive steps in your miter saw, the more precise cuts you can make,

Depth Stops.

They are similar to positive stops, but they measure the height of the maximum saw. The depth stops you to accurately set the blade height, which in turn controls the thickness of the cut you make in the wood.

Laser Guides/ Guide Lights.

They add to the cutting accuracy when you are at work.

Fences.

There are two types of fences, namely the flip or the slide fences. They are mainly to give the taller stock support, particularly when working with massive wood pieces.

Dust Chutes.

These features make cleaning in your work site much easier. Both the blowers and dust chutes are mainly to get rid of the sawdust from the table. The dust bags are primarily to catch the sawdust blown from the table, thus keeping your shop spotlessly clean.

Shaft Locks.

They are mainly for changing the blade by locking everything into its right place. In simple terms, they help you to improve the module without necessarily holding your saw up.

Table Extensions.

It is just an added space suitable for those targeting to work on larger wood pieces, thus making your woodwork much more manageable.

Conclusion.

Selecting the right type of miter saw depends on various factors, as discussed above. The DeWalt DWS780 is the ideal for compelling wood cutting projects, but if you are looking for a perfect bang for your buck, then pick the DeWalt DW715. Our miter saws will suit your needs for your woodworking shops or your home woodworking projects.

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Band saws are great investments for your future that require deep investigating and comparisons with different models as well as some critical considerations before you can purchase one.

Since most of these saw machines aren’t cheap and some quite expensive, it is therefore imperative to ensure you get the best value for your money by getting the best investments possible.

Remember shopping online, however simple and promising it may look, most manufacturers are quite aggressive when it comes to increasing their sales. They will ensure they give you most of the product benefits and deliberately leave out the product shortcoming.

An honest product review can not only help you pick the best product but also get the best value for your money. It is one of the reasons we have compiled a genuine review of the best band saws in 2020. Our discussion will not only guide you to select the best band saw that best serves your needs but also at affordable prices.

Whether you’re new in the band, saw industry or experience like me, consider looking at this review keenly, and our buyers guide mainly for novice buyers. As you finalize this review, you will be in a better position to understand what exactly to look in a band saw. Below are steps to boost your band saw buying confidence?

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Top 7 Best Band Saws Reviews of 2020

1. JET JWBS-14DXPRO Band Saw – Best Overall

In most cases, the machine design plays a significant role in delivering quality services and according to your expectations. The JET JWBS-14DXPRO has not been left behind in this category. For instance, the machine’s substantial capacity allows the user to rip over 12-inch pieces tall and at the same safeguarding your safety by having a coverable blade guard that can be adjusted easily up to 12 inches.

Additionally, these machines do not involve the use of the riser block, thus saving you much of your time, especially when working on projects of different magnitudes. The device also comes with quite large tables measuring 15 by 15 inches in addition to adjustable blades, which are not only faster but also easy to install.

The edge tracking windows does not only allow you to monitor the alignment of the blade but also allowing you to track any situation that can prove risky. The only weakness of this machine is that it does not include a rip fence, which is quite essential for your safety.

Although most manufacturers out there will consist of a cheap rip fence, we recommend our customer to get a satisfying rip fence in the aftermarket, although at an extra cost.  The JET JWBS-14DXPRO has received the best reviews as the most potent band saw offering high-quality services and capable of handling several large projects comfortably.

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2. Grizzly G0555LX Band Saw

The model is just excellent on its own in addition to comprising of several other features that are quite rare on other models that come at this pricing.  The machine is not only powerful but also has a large table, although not available in all models.

If you are ready for deep research, you will get the main features that make this machine work quite easier. For instance, the computerized and balanced iron wheels save you from extra cost for the stands, unlike most of the other band saws out there.

The machine comes with amazing features that make it not only a great device to operate but also efficient. For instance, the computer-balanced iron wheels mean saving you from extra cost, unlike the other band saw models. It also features a high quality fence that is quite rare to both the band saw and the saw industry in general.

Its low-vibration further ensures your cuts are of high quality. The only shortcoming of this machine is its poor design particularity, the dust collector port that requires frequent fixing to provide its combustibility with the dust collection system. This has made it the second-best model; however, it can compete favorably with the first model.

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3. WEN 3962 Band Saw – Best Value.

The WEN 3962 does give you not only the value of your money but also makes the best cuts. It features a 45-degree tiltable table that makes it a highly adjustable machine that makes you work comfortably in your current project.

Additionally, the two speed, ten-inch band saw is compatible with most dust collection systems, and this means if you already have a dust collection dust, the better for you. It has a three in one dust port that makes compatible with any dust collection system.

The only challenge with this model is that the initial set up is not that straightforward, and it may take a longer time as compared to the top two models. Often, band saw novices find it challenging when changing these models blades.

Once you have set this blade correctly, rest assured it is one of the most powerful machines, and straight cutting saw in the market. If you are already experienced in band saw machines defiantly this machine shall prove to be the best however for first time users, a steep learning curve should not be a surprise.

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4. Rikon 10-305 Band Saw

Are you looking forward to starting a small cutting project that does not require the most powerful machines in the market? Then Rikon 10-305 is the best for you.

This machine has been designed exclusively for softer woods, and thus it lacks mighty blades, and since chances of you working on harder woods are minimal, then this is okay. Since you only need a less powerful machine for your projects, then this machine has considerably lower prices, but suits your work requires entirely and for less.

One of the advantages of this best portable band saw is that it comes with a steel frame and a large cast-iron table, thus making your work easier. The machine is manufactured using hard plastic materials, and that is the reason behind its low price, but rest assured of a good value for your money.

Unlike the other machines, this one does not vibrate so much as well as having a micro-adjusting handle, thus helping you to make cleaner cuts. However, this model doesn’t have many features and most suitable for simple projects and on softer woods. Due to its undersized dust port, it will require you to do more cleaning much pretty than you’d like.

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5. Shop Fox W1706 Band saw

This freestanding band saw machine is among those on the upper price scale in our Shop Fox features. It comes with a large and spacious cutting table measuring 14 by 14 inches. Also, you can tilt the table up to 45 degrees on your right side.

For efficiency, this machine allows you to cut on a piece for over 6-inches as well as the extension kit (optional) can allow you to cut further 12-inch thick wood sections. Moreover, the machine has a one horsepower motor that ensures adequate power to rotate at 1,500 and 3,200 FPM (Feet per minute).

If you are not willing to purchase other additional accessories for your newly bought band saw, then this is the best for you since it comes with a miter gauge as well as the rip fence. It has a storage cabinet at its stand doubles that help you keep your workspace clean and presentable.

The main shortcoming of this best band saw machine is that the guide bearing on the downside has a shorter lifespan, but thanks for the two-year warranty for replacement in case of damage.

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6. WEN 3959 Band Saw

This machine comes with a 2.5 –amp motor with a capacity to rotate the blade at a speed of 2,500 FPM. Although it may look physically small, this machine from WEN is quite powerful and affordable pricing.

The sturdy blade can cut up to 3.5 inches in addition to the tilting table that allows 45-degree bevel cutting.

The miter gauge, rip fence, and a built-in vacuum attachment of 2.5-inch dust port also included in this machine, thus saving you from additional expenses.

However, the limitation of this band saw machine is that the saw tends to drift occasionally, thus ruining several boards, not to mention the cheap quality rip fence that doesn’t stay put for a while. The warped table also prevents smooth board side thus causing it to hung up occasionally.

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7. Delta 28-400 Band Saw

The Delta band saw comes with a single stout horsepower motor that runs two-speed blades at 3,340 FPM and 1,620 FPM that are not only suitable for hardwood but also metal cutting.

Its oversized table is measuring 18⅞ by 15¾ inches and tiltable to the right at 45 degrees. Adjusting the blade tracking is made simple by the nine-spoke wheels, thus making your work easier.

Although it has a cutting capacity of 6-inch higher, it does not allow the additional block to get added. A hex wrench is required when changing the blades to loosen the six separate set screws to reach the new blade protector.

It is due to this reason it is not among our top band saws in addition to its high price that does include additional accessories such as dust port, miter gauge or rip fence.

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The Best Band Saw Buyer’s Guide

A large number of band saw models in the market not only makes it challenging for customers to correctly pick the best model for them but also spending a lot of time to figure out the overwhelming number of models. It, therefore, becomes imperative to know which features you will be looking for before you can make your final purchase decision.

These include:

The Band Saw Uses

We assume before you buy your band saw you precisely know its purpose. For instance there some band saws are better for making precise curves and cuts, intricate cutting while others are great at resawing thin wood strips as well as ripping larger ones. It is essential to know the purpose of your band saw such as light, occasional and detailed, or for handling more substantial jobs and thicker materials. After figuring out this requirement, then you will know which specifications you need.

Different types of band saw

There are two main types. Namely;

1. Floor-standing Cabinet Models:

These band saw machines are quite heavy, large to handle various large and heavy projects comfortably. They are mostly preferred by professional and contractor woodworkers due to their stable and sturdy nature, although more expensive.

2. Bench Top Models:

They are quite lighter and smaller, thus suitable for small scale projects such as for home use. They are easy to operate on a workbench and still get great results.

Band Saw Main Features

Before you pick your band saw, consider these main features.

Frame

It supports the entire machine. It is, therefore, crucial to be made of cast iron or steel metal. Note plastic flames, although they are cheap, they are not durable and aren’t suitable for heavy machines that perform heavy work. If you are planning for a large project, cast iron flames are particularly significant.

Horsepower 

How powerful is the motor installed producing? Note most bans saws have around a 1 HP. While for a professional band saw requires more than I HP, home band saws can comfortably work with I HP or even ½ HP since they are designed for light tasks. In simple terms, the more massive the job you undertake, the more influential the horsepower you need.

Throat

This is the distance from the vertical flame and the frame. It determines the width range that your machine can handle comfortably. It is, therefore, crucial to select a throat that can accommodate precisely the task you are planning to have.

Table

It provides support for the material you are working on, and this means it should be made from cast iron, steel, or aluminum alloys that ensure sturdy support. Some tables are quite large and extendable options and others with a tiltable landscape of about 45 degrees on the right side.

Blade Width

It is the usable blade size. Again according to the magnitude of your work, consider both the maximum and minimum measurements and pick what fits your work ranges.

Weight

Model weight varies from one model to another. While a single person can carry others, others do not pick a model weight based on your work requirements.

Additional accessories

Some band saws come with extra features that are not very necessary but are worth having in your machine. For instance, the work lights and windows enable you to see through the blades as they work and therefore monitoring their condition.

Conclusion

Understanding the sole purpose of the band saw you are planning to purchase is the first most crucial factor to consider. From that, you can now determine the best band saw that suits your needs. We commend the DIYer or Grizzly  G0555LX to those looking for powerful and versatile band saws for professional woodworks and suitable for both small and big tasks.

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The miter saw market today is flooded with so many saws, and this is not only making it challenging but also confusing to choose the best miter saw brand.

Could you be finding it hard to decide which miter saw is best for your project and at a reasonable price (Compound miter saw vs Sliding miter saw)? You are now in the right place to get rid of all your doubts. In this article we will show  you the key difference of Compound vs Sliding miter saw.

What are the differences between a compound and sliding miter saw?

Although there are so many things in common between these two miter saws, a big difference between them does exist. For instance, the rails enable the blade to move to and fro across a large piece of materials, and these rails are found in the sliding miter saw. These rails also make it possible to cut across materials that would otherwise be impossible for a compound miter saw to reach.

Compound saws, on the other hand, don’t come with rails. Since it does not have railings, it, therefore, means that there is nothing to the way of their cutting arm. They are, therefore, super-efficient in cutting thick materials better than other types of saws.

What is Miter saw?

A miter saw is designed with the sole purpose of making crosscuts on the material they are cutting. Some miter saw model would let you choose the angle you want to make while others make it possible to adjust the angle to various degrees such as 15, 30 and 45 degrees

A clean and precise cut is made by holding the material against a fence that ensures a straight and an excellent cut, and this is after you have set your cutting angle. Remember a cut is made by pulling down and through the material using a circular blade while maintaining a single smooth motion.

What is a compound miter saw?

Having known what is a basic miter saw does, it is now easier to comprehend why a compound miter saw a powerful tool to handle almost all of your woodwork efficiently.

Since compound miter saw is more specialized in their work, they produce high quality cutting results than just a small miter cut. They work in the same way as the standard miter but with a single difference.

The pivoting arm of the blade in a compound miter saw can easily be tilted to various angles apart from the typical 90 degrees. It, therefore, means you can quickly and precisely make bevel cutting alone from the standard miter cuts. Unlike a standard miter saw, a compound miter saw is a multipurpose machine, and this means you can successfully handle many projects using a single tool.

For instance, for a picture flame to join at 90 degrees, a perfect cut of two 45 degrees has to be made on each fire before joining them. It is attained by positioning the miter cut at an angle through the horizontal plane while the bevel cut positioned at an angle through the vertical flame. Bevel cuts are mainly made for finishing purposes.

There are various types of compound miter saws, among them being the standard compound miter saw. It features a blade that can only tilt in one direction, either right or left. That means for you to cut in the alternate route, you have to turn the wood manually you are cutting and then come at it while at the other side. Using this saw can easily make you feel fatigued quickly.

A dual compound miter saw on the other side features a blade that is pivoted in such a way that it can turn on both rights and left sides quickly. Although it isn’t a favorite tool for many, it is the best tool for those requiring a lot of bevel cuts and miter works.

Compound Miter Saws Pros & Cons

A compound miter saw has a higher cutting capacity since it doesn’t come with rails. It can also cut thicker materials better than the sliding miter even when using blades of the same size.

Compound miter saws require much lesser space and, therefore, suitable to woodworkers with limited workshop space.

A compound miter saw is also relatively cheaper when compared with other types of miter saws hence ideal for your tight budget.

The main limitation of a compound miter saw is that it is particularly suitable for projects that involve large pieces of wood, thus limiting the user to only such projects.

What is a sliding miter saw?

A sliding miter saw has some similarities with a compound saw since it also makes bevel and miter cuts. However, the main difference comes in between the material width they can handle.

From the tern sliding, a sliding miter saw has the capacity of handling any task that a compound saw can, but only that it comes with rails that make it easy to slide the saw to and fro the material being cut.

It, therefore, enhances the cutting capacity substantially so that you can make cuts even in thicker pieces of stuff.

Sliding Miter Saws Pros & Cons

Siding miters saws come with rails that make your cutting experience enjoyable since you are not required to reposition the saw not and then.

A sliding miter saw is also perfect for a project that involves cutting bevels and miters into a full board. Although they are worth your investment, the sliding miter saws are quite expensive.

Another shortcoming of sliding miter saw is that they require a more spacious room and therefore making them not suitable for workshops with limited storage or working space.

Which Miter Saw is the Best Choice Compound Vs Sliding Miter Saw?

It is challenging to precisely tell which miter saw between the sliding vs compound miter saw is your best choice. It is because each miter saw has its unique use and features that make it better in a particular project than the other. Again the main difference between these two saws is the material size each saw is best suited for.

The budget also plays a significant role in deciding the type of saw you want. Compound miter saws are relatively affordable than their counterpart sliding miter saws.

Sliding saws are not only heavier but also require more space so the available space in your workshop should also highlight the best miter saw for you. It, therefore, means that the best choice can be determined by the needs and resources you have in your workshop.

 

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By the look, both the brad nailers and finish nailers, are very similar. They are designed mainly for accurate nailing tools rather than for bulk nailing. For instance, the finish nailers, as their name suggests, are primarily suitable at the end of the project rather than for the entire project nailing purposes. However, each nailer has its particular role from that of the other.

Below is the individual nailer function that will help to identify the differences.

Brad Nailer vs Finish Nailer Comparison

The main difference between the finish nailer and brad nailer is that the brad nail gun is mainly designed for shooting the 18-gauge nails while the latter designed for driving in the 15- 16 gauge nails precisely. The small 18-gauge brad nail will help you push shorter nails through some delicate trims without damaging them while they finish brad nailer enables you to attach thicker trims by firmly holding them together.

A brad nailer can precisely attach moldings or thin trims without necessary using the putty while in contrast, a finishing nailer is most suitable for your woodworking jobs as well as carpentry, and it will need the use of putty to make holes through the wood for more comfortable nail driving.

Everything you wish to know about these two distinct nailers in their functionality has been well explained in the article below.  Additionally, I’ve also highlighted the main differences between each nailer for better clarification and easier identification.

What is a Brad Nailer?

A brad nailer has almost the same appearance and functions in a similar way to a nail gun, but unlike the other nailer in the market today, it doesn’t shoot nails in the real sense, but instead, it shoots brads. Note brads are necessarily thinner nails with an average gauge of about 18 and measuring precisely about 0.0475 inches in total cross-sectional length. As per their measurement, as you can see, they are too small to drive a nail, but instead, they are perfect for attaching trims and moldings.

Most of the first time DIYer users in most cases, they haven’t yet come used smaller and thinner nails. It is not a wonder if you are surprised to ask what the purpose of such more fragile nails is or where they are used. To be precise, brads nails are particularly important when joining thinner boards in which the regular-sized nails would otherwise cause cracks or damage the entire board.

Brads, therefore, become very crucial for joining such lightweight trims without breaking them. It is, therefore, essential to have brad nailers in your tool shed since they play a pivotal role in your molding and trimming or when you are applying for finishing touches on your woodworking project.

Tip. When driving a brad nail and it fails to go through the material you are fixing, never force it by hammering its head, primarily because of the thinness that can cause them to bend over, thus causing some damage to your project. Instead, pull it our rather than hammering the rest and then try to strike a new brad nail instead.

What are the pros of brad nailers?

• Perfect for driving thin brad nails through some delicate moldings and trims.
• When used correctly, the 18-gauge nail does not fragment your trim.
• No filling of the resulting hole since it is minimal to require filling
• It is also suitable in relatively smaller baseboards and plywood measuring up to ½-inch.

What are the cons of brad nailers?

• The smaller bard nail is not suitable for handling large boards, heavy molding, and woods.
• Not fit to apply on tight spaces and hard to reach corners

What is a Finish Nailer?

Much like the brad nailer, the finish nailer has similar uses to it. It has specific uses hence not suitable for most of the woodwork projects but rather for particular project purposes. You are required to get it only for specific finishing tasks such as those requiring finish nailers at an angled base.

Finish hailer, as stated earlier, is needed when you want to put up a molding or a clean surface as opposed to using the regular nail gun. Finish mailer’s lies at the middle of brad nailers and heavy duty nail guns such as the framing nailers. In simple terms, they don’t lie of both extreme ends but at the center.

The average finish nailer can put up nail size from one to two and a half inches in length. Most of these nails are headless and hence possible to bend them on the wood surface without anyone realizing although it is quite challenging to remove them from the wood once nailed.

 What are the pros of Finish Nailer?

• It can drive nails of 15 to 16-gauge, which are quite stronger hence offering offer higher holding strength.
• Finish nails are excellent to use in building furniture, woodworking, plywood, fixing large baseboards as well as attaching more substantial crown moldings since they are relatively more significant to connect larger object sizes.
• Finish nailers are usually multipurpose hence suitable for various work types
• The 15-gauge nail guns, which are particularly collated at a certain angle, can reach extreme corners.

What are the cons of Finish Nailer?

• Driving bigger nails means creating larger holes on the surface that require filling. It, therefore, means additional putty work for a carpenter of covering the nail hole.
• Not suitable for fixing narrow boards as well as thin trims.

The main differences between the brad and finish nailers

So far, we have emphasized the similarities of both the finish and brad nailers guns. For instance, both are meant for special nail driving functions. They are both less powerful and intended to drive smaller nails as opposed to the regular nail guns. With that in mind, make no mistake of confusing their uses, such as assuming you may use them interchangeably. Let me now explain the main differences between these two different nailer guns for further clarification.

The resulting hole size

Firstly, each nailer gun creates a hole of different size from that of the other on the wood you are using. Any woodworker will agree that when you use a nail gun on the wood, you will be required to apply putty as a way of filling in holes made by the nail gun. Well, this holds with finish nailer since the gaps created by the finish nailer are often more significant and require applying a little quantity of putty but not as much as with regular nail guns. On the other hand, brad nailers leave no noticeable holes and therefore require no use of filling material at all.

The size of nails used

The brad nailer is specifically for shooting the 18-gauge nails while the finish nails guns for driving in the 16 to 15 gauge nails.

The nail gun Power

Finish nailers since they shoot larger nails are relatively more potent as compared to brad nailers.  For instance, assume you are driving nails on a relatively thicker trim that requires sharp attaching pins. In such a situation, if you use brad nails, you risk having the trim falling. On the other hand, if you use finish nails to attach a thinner trim, you risk causing it to break or develop unpresentable cracks.

Its uses

As stated earlier, one key difference between these two nailers is that brad nailers won’t cause cracks on a thin piece of plywood, unlike the finish nailer. Another key difference is how capable the nailer is suitable for driving nails at the corners.  For instance, most carpenters prefer brad nailers over finish nailers since the latter causes more damages while driving nails at the edge.

How to make the best choice between a brad or finisher nailer?

Making the final decision on whether to go for finish or a brad nailer can be quite challenging, particularly among amateurs. However, the thickness and the weight of the surface you intend to attach is the primary determiner of the nailer gun is suitable for you. For example, if your project involves working on something thick or hardwood, then the finish nailer should be your first choice, while for soft and thinner materials such as plywood, then brad nailer is your best choice. Most people prefer the finish nailer over brad nailer due to its more comprehensive range of uses. If, for instance, you are planning to make a tool shed, I would recommend you buy a finish nailer.

FAQ: Brad vs Finish Nailer, Which is the best for your job?

Here I want to answer the most frequently asked questions relating to the uses of the finish and brad nailer. You can also email me for any specific and urgent issues.

Are brad nailers suitable for trim project?

The answer is yes. Brad nailer is the best choice for molds and lightweight trims.

Which are the best nails for baseboards?

The 18-gauge brad nailer is the best for installing a baseboard since it involves lightweight materials. Ensure to use the one and a half inch long nails for the best outcomes. However, note that if your baseboard includes heavy and hefty metals, then consider installing it using the finishing nailer. Remember to predrill a hole near the edges to avoid the finish nails splitting your board. Such a predrill hole should be relatively thinner than the nail diameter for best results.

Can the finisher nailer use brad nails to attach items?

The answer is no! Remember, the brad nails are usually around 18 –gauge with a  diameter of about 0.0475 inches (1.2mm) while a finisher nailer can handle nails of 16 to 15 – measure (Ø0.0625 inches and Ø0.0720inches) respectively. It, therefore, means the finisher nailer gun, when loaded with brad nails, will cause an error of shooting two pins per shot, thus causing inefficiency and unsatisfactory end results. Further, it can result in a machine gun to jam and break it or even cause an injury to you by the flying metal pieces.

Can I use the finish nailer or brad nailer for a hardwood floor?

Although the flooring nailer is the best for installing hardwood, you can as well as use a 15-gauge finish nailer to install your hardwood floor installations. Note brad nails can’t penetrate wood easily, so they aren’t efficient in such a case.

Which nailer should I use for a crown molding?

Most of the mold is lightweight, and therefore a brad nailer can work efficiently. However, crowns involving extensive and large crown moldings, brad nails won’t hold them together correctly, so the finishing nails are the ideal options for them.

Brad nailer or Finish nailer for shiplap installation?

Although I have not personally experimented many times with shiplap walls, from my observations of many shiplap, most of them are installed with either the finish nailer or the framing nailer

Brad nailer or finish nailer for shoe molding and quarter round?

The 18 gauge brad nailers and the 23 gauge pinner are the best for the quarter round. For shoe molding, 1-1/2 long nails brad nailer can work fine.

Two essential tips for you.

1. The brad nails are chisel edged rather than rounded. Ensure to position the nailer in such a way that crosses the molding grain to avoid the chisel edge cracking the molding.
2. Avoid nailing directly into the wooden floor since incase of season changes, the floor is likely to contract or expand, and this means pulling the molding along with it, thus causing it damages on the floor.

Conclusion

A useful guide is essential as a guiding tool, especially when confronted with a tough buying decision. The good news is that this guide has everything that you need to identify and pick the best nailer for your project. Again if you feel you are not yet sure whether you need a brad or a finish nailer and the local hardware can’t help you too, then come with a sample of what you would like to make, and we will help you make the right choice for you.

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Anyone can easily acquire some wooden pieces from a nearby store, fix legs on it, and claim to have made a table for their home. However, a skilled individual who is looking forward to a professional look at their furniture can recognize the critical role that a benchtop planer plays in their workshop.

Whether you use your benchtop thickness planer on a daily bases or only during a rainy Sunday, your main objective is to have a smooth surface on your wood. Our listed best benchtop thickness planer, can not only save you thousands of dollars from hiring an industrial planer at obviously escalated costs but also achieve your work perfection happily.

Checkout Best Benchtop Planers

Top 8 Best Benchtop Planers Reviews (2020-2021)

1. DEWALT DW735X 13-Inch Two Speed Benchtop Thickness Planer

The DEWALT DW735X 13 is designed mainly for professional planer workers. It comes at relatively higher prices that range from $ 600 to $700, thus reflecting the superior quality services it offers from its advanced features.

One of the most attractive characteristics of this best benchtop planer is that it has an adjustable speed, thus giving you exclusive control of your planning task. For instance, you can easily change the feed speed, thus optimizing the cut-rate to around 96 and 179 CPI.

This benchtop thickness planer comes with a 13-inch width capacity and 6 inches for that of depth capacity. The extra-large depth turret allows to reshuffle back to the most constant thickness used. Great for you. Isn’t it?

Having three knives cutters, the DE Walt has its knives designed to last longer due to the durable materials used in making them. These knives are easy to replace when a need arises. It comes with a powerful 15 amp motor that makes over 20,000 revolutions per minute.

However, for the safety measures, a reliable protection cover is installed, which has an automatic carriage lock that restricts any movements unless when in use. The DW735X leads on the list as the best Benchtop planer, mainly due to its adjustable speed and free from spinning effects.

However, this best benchtop planer for fine woodworking is quite expensive, but high quality services are guaranteed. Most of our customers who bought cheaper planes have always expressed interest in paying an extra amount but get quality work outcomes.

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2. WEN 6552T Benchtop Thickness Planer

If you place excellent value for a benchtop thickness planer, then the WEN 6552 13 inch is for you. It has a 15 Amp motor that makes over 25,500 cuts per minute, thus increasing its efficiency significantly.

Another fantastic feature about this device is that you can adjust its cut depth from 0 inches to 3/32 of an inch. Moreover, the fan-assisted dust pole can effectively remove sawdust and clips from your workplace, thus maintain clean working conditions. The carbon steel double-edged blades ensure smooth cutting on both sides simultaneously.

For smoother finishes, the granite table is designed in such a way never to warp. Additionally, the durable materials used to make the granite table ensure it can last for an extended period without necessitating replacement. This best benchtop wood planer has received exceptionally positive reviews from our customers, particularly from its affordable pricing.

However, a few individuals have raised concerns about it having chipped blades and snipping occasionally. The machine gives back your money value hence more suitable for infrequent /casual users rather than for professional workshops.

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3. DEWALT DW734 Benchtop Planer

Due to its superior quality services, such as being user-friendly, this wood planer has received excellent reviews from our customers. It produces the smoothest surfaces that don’t require any further sanding procedure.

Its three cutting knives do make it not only the unique benchtop planer but also the most efficient thickness planer you can get in the market. Out feet, tables play a significant role in snipping prevention, not to mention the extra-long cutter head that uses the lock head mechanism, thus eliminating snipping.

Additionally, the reversible knife-edges make it possible to cut through the entire wood before you can think of changing. A great deal. Isn’t it? Although this machine is quite heavy, weighing about 80lbs, it is possible to take it with you to your working place comfortably.

It has firm handling extensions, thus making it comfy to work. The only drawback of the machine it’s quite noisy, but for sure the nature of the work involved deserves it. Always wear noise protectors while in a noisy environment.

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4. WEN 6550T Benchtop Planer – Best Value

The WEN 6550 has significantly lower prices as compared above models. This top rated benchtop thickness planer has multiple noteworthy features, such as having a granite feed table.

Such a high quality table guarantees you of a durable, smooth, and wear-free surface with an excellent outcome such as leaving not even a trace of a mark on your woods or boards.

Its fan aided dust pot ensures dust and other shavings come out quickly and well-directed in a single direction, thus making cleaning much more comfortable. Although blades are quite sturdy, they usually have a shorter lifespan, and sometimes they develop chipping, particularly when cutting relatively harder woods.

Although this best affordable benchtop planer weighs almost the same with De Walt (roughly 80lbs.), its design makes it more of a hobbyist than professional, thus making it suitable for Saturday afternoon worker who does like spending on their wooden projects.

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5. Makita 2012NB 12-Inch Benchtop Planer

The Makita 2012NB 12-Inch is another best benchtop thickness planer. Just like the first pick, this too gathers high reviews, mainly due to its quick set up.

It is quite less noisy as compared to the DE Walt machine as many people positively commend about its low noise levels. Again it is less bulky as compared to the first one, weighing 62 lbs. And this makes it sincerely portable.

Note this benchtop wood planer has both the reversible, cutter locking mechanism as well as disposable blades. It has received positive comments from its exceptional build display, although criticized too, mainly due to minor sniping issues.

Remember, optimum care is required when handling the machine to avoid machine breaking immediately after delivery. Some customers had complained of machine arriving already broken when they bought it online.

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6. PORTER-CABLE PC305TP Bench-top Planer

Although there is no such problem with this model, Porter-Cable PC305TP isn’t that much liked by many people. It has two reversible knives much portable since it weighs only 62lbs.

However, it has the lowest RPMs and relatively fewest cuts per minute, ranging from 8,000 to 16,000, respectively. So far, no one has complained about its finish quality. However, it is known to throws dust almost everywhere.

This benchtop wood planer is quite less expensive and ranked among the best. The only downside about it is that many argue that it’s particularly suited for hobbyists who have little or no experience and can tolerate the snipe generated.

It requires optimum attentiveness to avoid producing snipes. Perfect for the weekend woodworker who won’t care much about flawless precisions and is much willing to trade at that lover price tag.

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7. Cutech 40200H-CT 13″ Spiral Cutterhead Planer – Professional Model

The Benchtop planer has exclusively all features that a professional woodworker would look for in their workshop. Well equipped with a 15 Amp motor and for heavy duty guide poles and addition of two more heavy duty screw posts that supplements its stability when in use.

It weighs around 88 lbs. That also adds to its durability as it seats on solid rock as you work. The cutter head snipe rocks, as well as the internal gears, ensure you can adjust its height for efficient usability.

The infeed and outfeed tables are particularly important when planning longboards. Moreover, it comes with a uniquely designed spiral cutter that has 26 double-sided tips that created the most effective dust and sawdust removal mechanism.

Note these tips are easy to swap and also changeable when a need arises, such as getting damaged. Definitely, for the best Benchtop Planer, the Cutect 40200H-CT is the best choice for you.

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8. Delta Power Tools 22-555 Benchtop-Planer

This benchtop planer, the Delta Power Tools, is a perfect standard machine for fine woodworking. It comes with two disposable knives that are not only easy to change but also dual-edged.

It has over 18,800 cuts per minute, thus making it an efficient machine as compared to other planers. It weighs about 58 lbs, which makes it the most portable and lightest benchtop wood planer on the list.

this best benchtop planer for fine woodworking works much efficiently with pinewood, but in the case with harder woods, it struggles to pull through the wood to the feeder.

Snipping is quite huge, particularly on harder woods, thus forcing you to put additional feeder tables to eliminate the problem. It has an incredibly low noise level.

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The Best Benchtop Planers Buyer’s Guide

Are you looking for professional and high quality woodworking projects? If yes, then acquiring a planer is something you ought to be very keen on.

Although almost all benchtop wood planer you find in your local lumberyard can plane your woods, remember having fun in your work plays a significant role in your work satisfaction. Below are some of the factors you ought to consider before purchasing your Benchtop planer.

The portability of the machine.

From the above reviews, all of our planers are relatively lighter and weighing from 58 to 80 lbs. This makes the machine more portable from your truck to the job site comfortably or from the backyard to the garage. Easily to install or already bolted on a wooden slap.  You can easily customize your planer table to additional features like wheels. However, remember if you bolt it on a heavy to lift tables such as stones, then you reduce its portability, and it is, therefore, to consider buying a lighter surface to operate on.

The machine cutting depth.

All of our machines have the best and deepest cutting depths ranging from 3/32’’ and 1/8’’ with our best planer exceeding these standard depths. However, you can decide not to use the maximum cutting depths to avoiding snipping like a hood. Remember, the deeper the cut, the smoother the surface, so if you are confident with deeper cuts, the better. Additionally, the cutter head locking mechanism not only makes your work faster but also eliminates snipes virtually.

Dust discharge direction.

Remember, dust is a must while working on wood projects. However, the issue is how your planer can assist you to curb this trouble. For instance, most of our planer comes with a fan aided dust port that makes easier to vane the dust in a particular direction. However, if your planer does have such a feature, you can buy additional attachments such as dust hoses and hoods.

Wood Feed rate.

It means the number of wood that the benchtop planer can handle correctly within a minute and determined according to the measurements you recorded say either in minutes or feet. For the maximum planer, it can complete approximately 28ft per minute while the slowest 24 ft per minute. It is equally important to note that the slower the placer, the more accurate and smoother the finish outcomes, thus saving you any extra time for sanding.

Finish

Remember, each planer has a different finish outcome from others. Some will give you only a standard. A better planer should provide the best quality services in the market, thus minimizing the sanding time and resources.

The nature of your work. Is it for work or fun?

Some planer is particularly suitable for hobbyist while others for professional woodworkers. Depending on your taste, choose the appropriate planer that won’t betray you latter one during your woodwork experience.

The machine outfeed or infeed?

The infeed and outfeed tables are very crucial on your planer since it holds in place the wood as it enters or leaves the planer. For instance, extended tables on both sides can significantly reduce sniping unless if you are unnecessary wiling to rig out your schedule. In simple terms, go for that planer with longer our feed and in feed surfaces.

Knives

Yes, your Benchtop planer must have at least two knives and three in exceptional planers. Most blades are changeable and disposable; thus, no worrying about their lifespan and flipping is as easy as drinking water. Remember, an expert is required to sharpen these blades, so no need to try to sharpen them by yourself.

Motor speed.

Most of our Benchtop planers can operate on either slower and the faster speed. The slower rate produces a much smoother finish surface, although you can spend more time on the same project, unlike the faster rare.

Noise level production.

There are two choices available, loud and louder. Since these machines deal with hardwood materials, much power is required, and this is the reason for much noise production. As stated earlier, always ensure you wear ear protection devices, although neighbors or nearby people can appreciate quite models.

Power

The more powerful the planer, the better it is. Note a powerful benchtop planer for fine woodworking can handle almost any type of wood, not just the soft ones like the pine alone. For instance, a hesitating motor won’t result in a smooth finish. All our planers have over 15Amp engines with the ability to generate RPNs, which ranges from 8,000 to about 10,000.

Size of boards

Almost all of our Benchtop planers can create an 11-13 full ft. And six deep. It, therefore, means that you can handle several boards simultaneously without waiting every time. To avoid work duplicity, always mark the surface that has already been smoothening using your marking systems.

Final Verdict About Benchtop Planer

Remember, even professional benchtop planers sometimes experience problems to maintain a consistent cut on the entire board. Snipe results in annoying deeper cuts, particularly on the trailing board edge.

Some of the reasons that cause snipe to occur is a poorly supported board either when entering or leaving the planer, especially in an angled direction. To minimize or avoid these snipes, always ensure the board is well held and perpendicular to the cutting knives. But our listed best benchtop planer of 2020 will give you smooth woodworking experience for sure.

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