If you are into woodworking, either as a hobby or a profession, then you fully understand how important the type of table saw you use in your work. You need a saw machine that will give you excellent service in the production of masterpieces. But what makes a good table saw? Is it a manufacturing brand? Or is it the specs of the product which gives it the multimeter precision?
Well, if you want to learn more, read on this review as we take an in-depth look into the Grizzly Cabinet Table Saw G0690 model. But first, let us first find out what makes a good cabinet table saw.
Table of Contents
What makes a good table saw?
Flat tabletop
If you are to look into getting a high and precise cut, then a flat tabletop is the first thing you need. If the table is warped or bent, your cuts will be off.
A functional fence type
The fence capacity depends on the workload you intend to put on the saw machine, but regardless, the fence must be parallel to the blade for smooth movement of the board. It should also be able to lock down completely to restrict the board that you are cutting from moving backward, which is hazardous to you as the operator.
A working miter gauge
The miter gauge ensures that your cuts are accurate to the multimeter precision. For better cuts, make sure that the miter gauge stops at least at the 45 degrees and the 90 degrees points. These cuts are the most common.
The power output must be enough
This also depends on the work you intend to achieve with the table saw. Quite obviously, lesser work will require a lower power output than the ones to handle heavy-duty work. When purchasing one, ensure your seller informs you of the power outage so that you can buy one with the power that best fits your needs.
Possibility of wing additions
You may want to use the table saw for the making of door cabinets and bookshelves, but who said you might not want to advance your craft. Therefore, a table saw with space of wing additions is a good fit for any DIYer out there.
Exceptional blade factors
The table saw blade is perhaps one of the fundamental parts of the table saw since it does the cutting. Without it, it wouldn’t be a table saw. Therefore, the blade factors must be phenomenal. For instance, you should be able to change it or upgrade it easily. The slot should be interchangeable with a dado for grooved cuts.
Good bevel capacity
For well and accurate angled cuts, get a cabinet table saw with a functional bevel capacity. Some machines allow you to tilt the blade to the left while others on the right, so choose one that you are more comfortable with. Although who said you could not go for one that tilts both ways? It is better, of course, if you are a pro.
Great safety features
Using a saw that is moving fast is very hazardous. The fast motion can injure you anytime if you are not careful. For those reasons, good cabinet table saws should have safety guards against such risks. Some standard table saw safety features are guards, locks, and adjustment slots that are effective.
With all that in mind, let us take a look at the Grizzly Cabinet Table Saw (the G0690) and see if it meets the criteria of the best table saw. We will start with the features, then the pros, and finish off with the cons of this saw.
Features of the Grizzly CabinetTable Saw
It is made of a durable material
The significant parts of the G0690 cabinet table saw are made of long-lasting cast iron. Cast iron has a comprehensive strength that will serve this cabinet table saw for a very long time.
Glide fencing
The glide fencing system incorporated in this cabinet saw enables the Nylon runners to fit in seamlessly. Thanks to the system featuring knurled knobs, it allows you to make adjustments to the fence securely.
Dust collection feature
The Grizzly table saw has a 4-inch port for collecting dust to help you gather all the sawdust during your working sessions. You can connect a vacuum cleaner to make your work way more manageable.
Power cord
The power cord attached to a G0690 cabinet table saw is 6 feet long and does a pretty good job in power transmission.
A magnetic switch
The Grizzly G0690 cabinet table has a magnetic switch for safety purposes. Whenever there is any harmful or impromptu startup, the device stops back automatically, thanks to this switch. This is a particularly useful tool during power surges, which may interfere with the performance of the unit. The magnetic green button on the saw prevents accidents.
It has a 3HP Leeson Motor
The motor gives the table saw a powerful output, convenient for even for the most demanding projects. Its motor is suitable for both big and small projects.
A Triple V-Belt System and a T-Slot Miter Gauge
This ensures that there is an efficient transfer of power for a smooth operation of the saw. The T-slot miter gauge allows better support of the sheet material while you cut through it.
Quick-change Blade Guard
The Grizzly G0690 has a quick blade change system that lets you do a smart switch of the blades in a matter of seconds.
Quick-release Riving knife
The unit also allows you to make the knife changes a breeze. The knife moves vertically and tilts with the blade.
Powder Coated Paint
The paint used on the Grizzly table saw is powder-based, which contributes to the durability of the machine. Scratches and chips are an unlikely event.
Pros of the grizzly G0690 Table Saw
- The Grizzly has an eye-appealing design— its features are top-tier and one of the best in the market.
- The unit is of excellent quality design and will serve you for a very long time. The cast iron is sturdy, and the powder-coated paint keeps it looking shiny for a long time.
- The Grizzly G0690 offers cuts that are razor-precise and very accurate to the millimeter.
- The top table is very spacious, and this gives you enough space to do all the projects without necessarily needing any additional space.
- Using the machine is very safe, as all the spots that are potential sources of danger are well guarded.
- While working, vibrations can sometimes cause misses in terms of accuracy. With the Grizzly G0690, you get clean and precise cuts of your boards as it produces minimal vibrations.
- The unit offers excellent power output that allows a lot to be done by the machine. Being a cabinet saw, the Grizzly 0690 is perfect for professionals who want to create quality pieces.
Cons of the Grizzly G0690 Table Saw
- For starters, the unit is heavy, which limits its movement. If you would wish to have a mobile workshop, this machine may not be for you.
- Secondly, the assembly of the Grizzly G0690 is very time-consuming. The job is cumbersome for one person, and even with assistance, at least one of you must be knowledgeable about the units. This job is not for newbies whatsoever.
- The magnetic green bottom may peel off at any time.
How to keep your Grizzly G0690 Cabinet Saw in top shape
Every machine needs care ad maintenance to serve you better and longer. Here is how you should maintain your Grizzly table saw.
Saw alignment
As a precautionary move, make a point of realigning the saws before you start on a project. Total alignment is crucial because it amounts to excellent craftsmanship and, most importantly, safety. If you fail to align a unit properly, it leads to bad cuts, kickbacks, burnt wood, and other dangers. The alignment is to be done to the whole saw system, including the blade, the miter gauge, and the outfeed setup.
Clean and lubricate the guts
You need to make sure that you do the cleaning of your unit every once in a while. The necessary removal of the dust particles after every work session is mandatory, but a more thorough clean-up is a must. During the thorough cleaning, make sure you lubricate all the moving parts that need greasing for smoother movement. The best lubes to use are the drying, silicone-free lubes. Make sure all the sawdust is removed using a stiff brush and if need be a blower.
Polish the table top and the outfeed
If you do not want to be a victim of a kickback or a resistant tabletop, make sure you polish it every instance after a session. As a precautionary step, never place foods and drinks on top of both surfaces, since spillage may cause damage to your machine.
Replace broken, cracked, or loose parts
When you notice a part of your Grizzly G0690 is malfunctioning due to a crack, a nut is lost or is broken, fix it promptly. For instance, replace the worn-out belt, fix the loose saw, and any other maintenance section that needs fixing for a safe working condition.
Upgrade your workshop with the Grizzly G0690 Table Saw
The Grizzly G0690 Table Saw is a sturdy unit that will, for sure, help you get all your woodwork projects done. Its high quality and durability make it a perfect fit for professionals and DIYers to get that shelf or the cabinet doors done in the shortest period. The unit will offer you excellent service, so why not try it out. The Grizzly G0690 would be a great addition to your home workshop.