WHY THE WORLD HATES AMERICAN TABLE SAWS
SAWS James Hamilton SAWS James Hamilton

WHY THE WORLD HATES AMERICAN TABLE SAWS

The debate between long and short table saw fences comes down to a trade-off between control and kickback prevention—both sides have valid points. Understanding when to use each approach can improve both safety and accuracy, making a flexible setup the real winner.

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TABLE SAWS VS ROUTERS: WHICH CUTS THE BEST DADOS?
JOINERY, SAWS James Hamilton JOINERY, SAWS James Hamilton

TABLE SAWS VS ROUTERS: WHICH CUTS THE BEST DADOS?

Woodworkers love debating whether routers or table saws are better for cutting dados and grooves—but the truth is both tools shine in different situations. By comparing setup, safety, cost, adjustability, and cut quality, you’ll see why the “best” tool really depends on the job at hand.

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THIS MAY CHANGE HOW YOU USE YOUR MITER SAW
SAWS James Hamilton SAWS James Hamilton

THIS MAY CHANGE HOW YOU USE YOUR MITER SAW

Learn four essential miter saw tips that improve accuracy, reduce binding, and dramatically increase safety. From setting stop blocks to proper sliding cuts, these techniques help you cut cleaner and safer every time.

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STOP BURNING WOOD WITH A TABLE SAW
SAWS James Hamilton SAWS James Hamilton

STOP BURNING WOOD WITH A TABLE SAW

Learn what causes scorch and burn marks when cutting wood on a table saw and how to prevent them. Discover how blade cleanliness, sharpness, feed rate, alignment, and wood choice affect burning.

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DON’T FORGET YOUR BAND SAW’S TENSION
SAWS James Hamilton SAWS James Hamilton

DON’T FORGET YOUR BAND SAW’S TENSION

Releasing bandsaw blade tension is smart—but forgetting to re-tension it can send the blade flying when you hit the switch. A simple carabiner clipped to the blade creates an impossible-to-miss reminder that keeps your saw (and nerves) intact.

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REMOVING TABLE SAW RUST SAFELY
SAWS James Hamilton SAWS James Hamilton

REMOVING TABLE SAW RUST SAFELY

Learn how to clean and maintain a cast-iron table saw top without damaging it. This guide covers rust removal, safe cleaning methods, and proper waxing to prevent future corrosion and improve performance.

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HOW TO RIP CUT WITH A BAND SAW
SAWS James Hamilton SAWS James Hamilton

HOW TO RIP CUT WITH A BAND SAW

Learn why ripping on a band saw can be safer and smarter than using a table saw. Get pro tips on blades, setup, and cutting technique for clean results.

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THE MISUNDERSTOOD BANDSAW FOOT BREAK
SAWS James Hamilton SAWS James Hamilton

THE MISUNDERSTOOD BANDSAW FOOT BREAK

Learn why some bandsaws feature a mechanical foot brake and how it improves safety and convenience in the shop. Discover how a foot brake lets you stop the blade instantly and maintain full control while cutting.

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IS JAPAN SLOWLY KILLING WESTERN-STYLE SAWS?
SAWS James Hamilton SAWS James Hamilton

IS JAPAN SLOWLY KILLING WESTERN-STYLE SAWS?

But there’s still a great deal of confusion about how these saws work, the differences between the types available, and whether a Japanese saw is right for you. Most videos and articles focus on the benefits of these tools while largely ignoring the downsides. In this article, I want to present a clear, concise guide to the pros and cons of the three most common types of Japanese saws, so you can make an informed decision about which to try—if any at all.

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THE ONLY 3 BANDSAW BLADES YOU NEED
SAWS James Hamilton SAWS James Hamilton

THE ONLY 3 BANDSAW BLADES YOU NEED

Learn how to choose the right bandsaw blade with this simplified guide covering blade width, steel types, tooth geometry, and the best all-purpose recommendations for woodworking. Cut cleaner, straighter, and smoother with the right blade for your projects.

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