A radial arm saw is a versatile woodworking tool designed for making precise crosscuts, rip cuts, miter cuts, bevel cuts, and more. The saw’s motor and blade are mounted on a horizontal arm that extends over the work surface, allowing the blade to be pulled through the material. This design makes it easy to cut large or awkwardly shaped pieces that might be challenging on other saws.
Radial arm saws were once a staple in professional woodworking shops, prized for their accuracy and flexibility. While they’ve been largely replaced by miter saws and table saws in many modern workshops, they still excel in certain applications and remain a valuable tool when used correctly.
There are several reasons you might choose a radial arm saw over other cutting tools:
Precision Crosscuts – Excellent for making square, repeatable cuts quickly.
Wide Cutting Capacity – Can handle larger boards without the limitations of a miter saw fence or table saw rip width.
Versatility – Capable of crosscutting, ripping, beveling, mitering, dado cuts, and even shaping operations with the right setup.
Easy Material Positioning – The workpiece remains stationary on the table while the blade moves, reducing the effort of handling heavy boards.
Radial arm saws are powerful, precise, and—when misused—potentially dangerous. Please read and understand all safety guidelines before using the saw.
Key Safety Rules:
Training Required – Only members who have completed the Waukesha Makerspace Radial Arm Saw training may use this tool.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – Safety glasses or goggles are mandatory. Hearing protection and dust masks are strongly recommended.
No Loose Clothing or Jewelry – These can get caught in moving parts.
Blade Guard in Place – Never operate the saw without the blade guard properly adjusted.
Proper Hand Placement – Keep hands well away from the blade’s path at all times.
Firm Grip & Controlled Feed – Feed the blade into the wood slowly and steadily, maintaining control to prevent kickback.
Check Blade Rotation – Ensure the blade is rotating in the correct direction before starting a cut.
Clear Work Area – Remove scraps, tools, and other debris from the saw table before use.
Failure to follow these rules may result in injury and/or loss of shop privileges.
For complete step-by-step operation details, please refer to our Radial Arm Saw Safety & Operating Instructions (PDF).
This guide covers:
Pre-operation checks
Adjustments for different cuts
Safe cutting techniques
Maintenance and cleanup procedures
Last Updated: 2025-08-07
Training Contact: Shop Manager or Woodworking Area Lead