Table saw is an amazing tool that lets you cut various angles on wood. However, you must know how to set it to achieve those cuts and angles. One thing many woodworkers ask is how you can cut more than 45-degrees on a table saw.
This question, “how to cut more than 45-degrees on a table saw,” may look like a complex one, but achieving this is pretty simple. All you need to do is some math and blade adjustment.
Today, we will discuss how you can cut more than 45-degrees on your table saw.
How to cut more than 45-degrees on a Table Saw
Have you ever wondered why all miter saws and table saws only adjust to a maximum of 45-degrees angle? Because you rarely need to cut an angle greater than 45-degrees? Look around and see if you find any wood structures with angles larger than 45 degrees. I bet you can only identify 1 out of 100.
Your project or DIY task may include some structures that will need angles greater than 45-degrees. Let’s see how you can cut more than a 45-degrees angle on a table saw.
Step 1: Do some Math
The first step involves some basic math. All you have to do is subtract 45 from the required angle so you can identify the angle at which you need to set your blade. For example, if you want to cut a 75-degree angle, subtract 45 from 75, and you get 30. Similarly, if you want to make a 50-degree angle, subtract 45 from 50, and you get 5.
Step 2: Set the Blade
Set your table saw blade to 30-degree or the figure you get after subtracting 45 from the required angle.
Just a Pro Tip: Use a digital angle gauge for exact measurements. Table saw gauges are correct but not 100%. Klien’s digital level and angle gauge is an excellent option.
Most table saws have a knob or a lever to set the handle. You need to raise the blade to its maximum height and adjust it to the required angle.
Step 3: Place the Wood
Now here’s the real deal. You have to place the wood vertically on your table saw and feed it slowly to the blade.
You may not be able to get an exact angle when cutting vertically, but if you attach another wood piece to the backside of the piece using a double-tap. This will provide ample support to the sheet being cut.
Step 4: Get ready for the Cut
Raise the blade to its maximum height so the piece can pass through it. Refer to your saw’s user manual if you don’t know how to raise the blade’s height. Make sure you are wearing the right safety gear before you make the cut.
Moreover, check that your blade is properly sharpened as vertical cuts need more sharpness than simple horizontal cuts.
Step 5: Time to Make the Cut
Turn on your saw and feed the wood vertically to the blade. Be gentle and don’t push to speed up the whole process. Take care that you don’t bring your fingers too near to the blade.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to cut a 60-degree angle on a table saw?
Subtract 45 from 60, and you get 15. Set your blade to 15 degrees and feed the wood vertically to your blade.
How to cut a 50-degree angle on a table saw?
Set your blade to 5-degree and cut the board vertically. It will give you a 50-degree angle on your piece.
How to cut a 52-degree angle on a table saw?
Subtract 45 from 52 and set the blade to 7-degrees (52-45=7). Use a digital angle gauge to check the accuracy.
Final Words
So you see that cutting an angle greater than 45-degrees on your table saw is an easy but slightly complex task. When used in the right way, table saws can let you achieve way more than other tools.