Beginner Woodworker/DIYer on a Budget: Best (<$300) Miter & Table Saw Picks—and Models to Avoid?
Hey everyone, I’m a young adult looking to dive into DIY woodworking projects—like custom storage bins, cutting boards, outdoor furniture, and raised garden beds. I want to pick up a budget-friendly miter saw and table saw that still offer decent quality and room to grow with my skills. ⸻ What’s on my radar so far Miter saws SKIL 10” dual-bevel sliding compound Kobalt 10” sliding compound Table saws SKIL 10” job-site/table saw ⸻ Key constraints Budget: Under $300 each (or as low as possible) without sacrificing too much accuracy or build quality Beginner-friendly but reliable for weekend projects Solid warranties (most budget brands give ~3 years once registered) ⸻ What I’m after Real-world feedback on the models above—or better options in the sub-$300 tier. Brands or specific models to flat-out avoid in this price range—what makes them a “run like hell” choice? Poor fences, sloppy slides, unreliable motors… lay it on me. Starter accessories or companion tools that would dramatically improve safety, accuracy, or versatility while I learn (push sticks, aftermarket blades, simple jigs, etc.). The tips you wish you’d known at the beginning: must-have upgrades, brand pitfalls, safety gear, and sensible upgrade paths. If you’ve been woodworking or DIYing for a while, what would you tell your beginner self about choosing that first miter saw and table saw on a tight budget? Thanks in advance for the advice! submitted by /u/Affectionate_Ad3432 [link] [comments]
Hey everyone,
I’m a young adult looking to dive into DIY woodworking projects—like custom storage bins, cutting boards, outdoor furniture, and raised garden beds. I want to pick up a budget-friendly miter saw and table saw that still offer decent quality and room to grow with my skills.
⸻
What’s on my radar so far
- Miter saws
- SKIL 10” dual-bevel sliding compound
- Kobalt 10” sliding compound
- Table saws
- SKIL 10” job-site/table saw
⸻
Key constraints
- Budget:
- Under $300 each (or as low as possible) without sacrificing too much accuracy or build quality Beginner-friendly but reliable for weekend projects
- Solid warranties (most budget brands give ~3 years once registered)
⸻
What I’m after
- Real-world feedback on the models above—or better options in the sub-$300 tier.
- Brands or specific models to flat-out avoid in this price range—what makes them a “run like hell” choice? Poor fences, sloppy slides, unreliable motors… lay it on me.
- Starter accessories or companion tools that would dramatically improve safety, accuracy, or versatility while I learn (push sticks, aftermarket blades, simple jigs, etc.).
- The tips you wish you’d known at the beginning: must-have upgrades, brand pitfalls, safety gear, and sensible upgrade paths.
If you’ve been woodworking or DIYing for a while, what would you tell your beginner self about choosing that first miter saw and table saw on a tight budget?
Thanks in advance for the advice!
[link] [comments]