Contractor saws are the middle ground. Not benchtop junk, not cabinet saw investment. Here’s what to look for.
What Makes It Contractor
Open base, often with legs or wheels. Motor hangs off the back on a pivot. Belt drive to the arbor.
1.5 to 2 HP typically. Runs on regular 120V outlet usually. Some need 240V.
Good Brands
Delta. The classic. Used ones everywhere. Parts available.
Ridgid from Home Depot. Good value. Lifetime service agreement thing.
DeWalt, Bosch for portability. Heavier jobsite focus but works in shop.
What Matters
Fence is everything. Upgrade the fence even if saw is great. T-square style fences stay parallel.
Table flatness. Cast iron is better than aluminum. Check with straightedge before buying used.
Arbor runout. Wobble in the blade means bad cuts. Harder to fix than replace.
Drawbacks
Dust collection is terrible. Motor placement blocks the cabinet bottom. Dust goes everywhere.
Less mass means more vibration. Cabinet saws are smoother. You adjust expectations.
Modifications
Enclose the base for better dust control. Build simple cabinet around the legs. Hook to dust collector.
Extension wings increase capacity. Aftermarket available. Or build wooden ones.
Who Should Buy
Serious hobbyists. People with space but not unlimited budget. Someone upgrading from benchtop. Good enough for most projects.
