Choosing the Right Saw for the Job
Our shop is equipped with multiple types of power saws, each designed for specific cutting tasks. While many saws can cut wood, using the correct saw for the job is critical for safety, accuracy, machine longevity, and overall project success. Selecting the wrong saw often leads to poor results, damaged material, or unsafe operating conditions.
Our power saws fall into three main categories: Circular Saws, Band Saws, and Reciprocating Scroll Saws.
Circular Saws
(Table Saws, Miter Saws, and Cut-Off Saw)
Circular saws use a rotating round blade and are designed for straight, accurate cuts. These machines rely on fences, stops, and controlled feed direction to produce repeatable results.
Our circular saws are best used for:
- Ripping lumber to width (table saws)
- Crosscutting to precise length (miter saws and cut-off saw)
- Squaring stock and breaking down material
- Dimensioning lumber prior to joinery or assembly
Why proper use matters:
Circular saws are powerful and precise, but they are not suited for curves, freehand cutting, or irregular shapes. Attempting these cuts increases the risk of kickback, blade binding, and loss of control. These machines produce excellent results only when used for straight, guided cuts.
Band Saws
Log Saw and Multiple Mid-Sized Band Saws)
Band saws use a continuous loop blade that cuts downward into the table. This design makes them ideal for shaping, curved cuts, and rough material processing.
Our band saw lineup includes:
- A large log band saw, capable of cutting logs and heavy stock
- Certification is required to operate this machine
- Multiple mid-sized band saws, intended for:
- Curved cuts
- Re-sawing dimensional lumber
- Breaking down rough stock
- Logs are prohibited on these machines
Why proper use matters:
Each band saw is designed for a specific size and type of material. Using logs on mid-sized band saws can damage blades, overload the machine, and create serious safety hazards. The log saw is engineered for this work. Due to the danger involved, only trained and certified users may operate it.
Band saws excel where circular saws cannot—curves, irregular shapes, and resawing—but they are not intended for high-precision dimensioning or finish cuts.
Scroll Saw (Table-Mounted Reciprocating Saw)
A scroll saw uses a thin, vertically reciprocating blade that moves up and down through a small table opening. The blade is tensioned between upper and lower arms, allowing for extremely tight curves, interior cutouts, and fine detail work that cannot be performed safely or accurately on other saws.
Scroll saws are best suited for:
- Intricate curves and tight radii
- Interior cutouts (by threading the blade through a drilled hole)
- Fine decorative work and fretwork
- Thin or small stock requiring high control
Why correct terminology matters:
Scroll saws are often confused with jig saws because both use reciprocating blades. However, they are used very differently. Scroll saws provide precision, stability, and control, while jig saws prioritize portability and rough cutting. Using the correct term helps ensure members select the right tool and receive proper training.