How To Use The Radial Arm Saw

[@hardrock1826]

Great video examining proper and safe use of the ever popular and versatile Radial Arm Saw. I bought my Craftsman Radial Arm Saw in the Spring of 1978. I have done just about everything there is to do with this saw. From ripping 2" X 4" X 8' long, Spruce Construction Lumber into 1/4" thick slats to cutting deep channels in the same type of wood stock to make heavy duty, weight bearing shelving. I have used it to cut all types of wood and plastic pipe. Never had any problems with it in all those years. Some woodworkers go on about safety issues but this saw is no different than any other table type saw. Keep any limbs out of the path of the blade and don't wear loose hanging clothing. When you shut it off, remember the blade keeps turning for a while, I don't let go of the handle until it's quiet. And I always have a firm alert grip on the handle because as you say, it tends to want to propel itself through whatever wood piece you are about to cut. Use this saw as it was intended and observe the safety precautions that you need to be aware of that are unique to the operation of this amazing tool. And you will have a very productive relationship over time. Mine is now over 40 years old and still working for me as if it were new. This thing has watched me grow old. I still use this saw for specific jobs that I don't do on any of my other machines. My Radial Arm Saw is just the best choice for some types of work to get the best results. If some people are experiencing problems with one of these saws. They need to make sure that the saw is in good condition and that nothing needs to be replaced. And when using the saw, give it respect and use your head like any dangerous piece of equipment. It's a powerful tool that can cause serious injury if your attention is not focused on the machine. Operate with care.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Thanks!

[@andre1987eph]

Interesting. I wish you the best of luck with shop safety in the future.

[@pauldean9625]

I was given an old DeWalt radial saw older that what you have, by watching your video you saved me from injury, thank you, I watched all the ads for you to earn a few pennies. Paul

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Glad I could help!

[@nonyabiz2777]

I picked up a radial saw for free and have no idea how to use. Thank you for the information! I think I’ll keep it. I don’t like woodworking but I’m refurbishing a boat and I found I need some woodworking stuff. Bravo sir. Easy to understand directions.

[@stevewylie6951]

40 years a woodworker, just bought my first RAS, a Delta 12" 33-890, to use primarily for dados, but after watching this, I'll be trying some other operations. Love the panel raising table.

[@FantomWireBrian]

Nice saw . I have the same model Delta. I didn't realize it was a 12" for about a couple years . I bought it used and in like new condition, but it had a 10" blade on it . I knew a cabinet maker years ago that did the same thing . He said it gives the saw more power and you have less blade flex when ripping. I put on a 12" and didn't notice any loss of power and it had a smoother cut ripping. One only issue is using a new carbide.The blade clears to much between the blade and fence and doesn't kick back hard but it pushes the board out ,but not radical. I love ripping for fun rough cut 4x4s from old pallets to clean cut boards . Good practice ripping. Nice saw you have plenty of power with that saw. I got my eyes on a vintage 16 inch DeWalt . Very cool saws .

[@blairmcmillen2816]

Hi Iain, I just got my first RAS as an experiment. The first one I ever saw was a few weeks before and I was fascinated by it. It didn't even get turned on. For mine, I need to put a new table on it and will start using it then. I'm watching your video a few times, taking notes, building a new table, and only then will I flip the switch. I feel like I've seen all the KZbin vids at this point and yours is tops. It's the right pace, level of detail and should be required viewing by ANYONE new to using an RAS or who has never gotten a walkthru from an old pro. You and Mr. Sawdust are the rockstars of the RAS world.

[@dennisrockwell7834]

NICE SAW, I HAVE TWO OF THE SAME. I HAVE USED THIS TYPE OF SAW FOR 65+ YEARS ! THANK YOU FOR YOUR GOOD SAFETY UPDATE VIDEO, YOU DID A VERY GOOD JOB ! THANKS AGAIN

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Thanks!

[@HarpoonDon]

What an excellent video. You have gone a long way towards demystifying my Craftsman Radial Arm saw! Thanks, Don.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Glad I could help!

[@codywearsoxnot]

I was glued to the screen the whole video. Picking up my 1st RAS up in a few hours.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Cody Chase great! What kind is it?

[@codywearsoxnot]

@@TheNorthlandWorkshop delta 7710 for $50. Was looking to replace my miter saw and ran one that looks almost brand new.

[@adambooth1515]

Excellent video. I inherited an elu 1251 when I bought my house. (The switch had gone and was too much effort for the previous owner to take to the dump) I wired to an external switch with emergency stop, but didn't have the first idea of the versatility. Thanks for taking the time to make this very informative video!

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

I’m glad I could help. Thanks for watching!

[@joramkalfa9521]

Finally someone that explained the ins and outs of a Radial arm saw and how it's different from a "chop saw". Thank you for this! It was great.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Thanks!

[@Mr1Anvil1]

wonderful video. i was given a radial arm saw and didnt know how great it could be. very comprehensive and clear primer on the tool

[@s.l.derrick8005]

Great video!!! Best on radial arm saws ive ever seen. I learned a little about using a radial arm saw right out of high school working in a custom wood shop. Used it enough to develop good habits crosscutting. My favorite uncle had a basement wood shop. When he passed away we bought his saw from the estate. Unfortunately it rusted over the years. Pretty much junk now. My wifre just bought me a used craftsman as im converting our unused horse barn into a shop. The old saw was SO heavy that it takes 2 people straining to move it. Its ID is a catalog number. I am going to be building a mitre station and plan on incorporating it into the station. I am a new subscriber after watching this vid. Thanks!!!

[@dupeaccount1647]

I got one of these for free from my BIL (he lived with his grandfather who passed away last Summer). It's probably one of the last RAS ever made because it was made in the mid 2000s or so and they used it to do some project around the same time then it sat in grandpa's garage for over a decade. My BIL was cleaning out the place because Grandpa was a child of the depression / late WW2 vet so he KEPT everything and he needed to clear the place out for his aunt and mom to sell the house. When we went over there to get the saw there were still child toys and beds from Grandpa's kids (ie the mom and aunt) who are in their 60s now, 40 year old motor oil and paint cans, etc. Thanks for the video. I will absolutely watch it 5 times before using the RAS.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Dupe Account that’s a cool story! What brand is the RAS?

[@dupeaccount1647]

@@TheNorthlandWorkshop Craftsman Professional 10 in Radial Arm Saw.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Dupe Account I remember looking at those back when there was a Sears near me. I think they were the last of the radial arm saws.

[@briguydiy2328]

Great job on demonstrating what a radial arm saw CAN do. Sorry to say many other video presenters only bla bla bla about what the saw can do and fumble with knobs as if they are touching them for the first time. You know the tool and you walked your talk. congrats and thank you.

[@hollosaroka]

Excellent tutorial. I bought a RAS second hand very cheap years ago and never used it because I found it dangerous. I was just about to sell it because was simply taking up space. You made me change my mind and give it a second chance. Great video. You answered all my questions I had about this type of saws. Thank you.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Laszlo Horvath glad I could help! I think you’ll like the RAS when you get used to it.

[@woodworksbygrampies1284]

Hola! 🖐This is the very first video of your I have seen and I really enjoyed it. My wife bought a RAS for me just over a year ago and I've yet to even plug it in. This video has given me loads of insight of how versatile it is but also how much respect it commands. I have no wish to "wreck my day", best line of your video. Take care and have a good one, Adios!👊

[@gotmelk]

Thank you for taking the time to make this video. It was exactly what I was looking for after getting my first RAS. Clear and concise overview, thanks again. That Rockwell is a beauty.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

gotmelk thanks for watching! Yes, that saw is the most accurate machine in my shop.

[@MsSpider75]

Watching this video I saw so many ways that this saw can do a much nicer cut than a table saw. Especially with the dados and raised panels. What an amazing machine!

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

And that is why it is the central tool in my shop. Thanks for watching!

[@Jessewren1968]

Indeed, cutting dados on a table saw is a non-starter.

[@nealharris3856]

Best video on do's and don'ts Ive seen. Your approach to various cuts is both thoughtful and safe. Everyone using a radial arm saw should watch this.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Thanks!

[@1974HondaCB350F]

Dude. This video was so enjoyable to watch! Thank you very much for teaching us about radial arm saws. I am currently on the hunt for an old Delta/Rockwell RAS just like yours (I already own a 12" dado stack that I won in an auction). Dado-ing on a RAS seems very enjoyable and quick.

[@g.fortin3228]

I really like the raised panel table idea.. and I'll stick to ripping on my table saw. Nice video..one of the BEST on radial saws I have viewed. You taught me something with the panels raised panels method. :- ) Thanks !

[@barryirby8609]

I have a Craftsman 10" RAS from the late 60's. I bought it new when I was in high school and have had it ever since and used it many hours. Thanks you for you video. I can see that your saw is bigger and much more solid than mine. I recently put a thin kerf negative rake blade on mine and it is a game changer. I use mine for cross cutting almost exclusively. The new blade has much less tendency to climb through the cut.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Barry Irby a thin kerf blade makes a big difference on smaller saws. I got lucky when I was given this industrial saw but a smaller saw can do everything a bigger saw can. The lighter ones just require a bit more fiddling with during the set up.

[@Ritalie]

Something that also can work (but use your discretion) is an "anti-kickback" blade. The old blades, and the new professional blades, are extremely dangerous on a radial arm saw, because they do not have any anti-kickback teeth on them. But the new "cheap" blades sold in box stores, have anti-kickback teeth. I'm using a Diablo 40 tooth "general purpose" blades on my radial arm saw and it doesn't climb at all, it's very smooth and precise. The cutting is "limited" by the anti-kickback teeth called "shoulder" or "limiter" teeth in between each cutting tooth. The shoulder teeth prevent run away climb by limiting the feed rate. Dado sets can also have these "limiters" or "shoulder" teeth and you shouldn't use a blade without anti-kickback shoulders unless you are using a negative rake.

[@ocaseysgourmetmunchies5783]

Awesome tutorial. I recently picked up a radial arm saw but knew nothing about it. I would’ve certainly used it incorrectly, especially not knowing the direction of feed for ripping. Who knows what other dangerous mistakes I would’ve made. Thanks for taking the time to make this.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

What type of radial arm saw did you get?

[@victorrodea7163]

Outstanding! Just got re aquatinted with my ras and your video has explained a few forgotten tricks. Thank you for your detailed explanations and attention to safety.

[@asmith7876]

One of the best presentations I've seen yet on the RAS. I inherited one, a Ryobi so old it was made in Japan, and recently acquired some equipment which includes a Craftsman RAS, but I don't know how old. It has a laser guide so it isn't really too vintage. After watching some other videos I attempted to do some work on the Ryobi; too different, too terrifying! I can appreciate that a RAS can sit up against the wall and therefore not take up real estate like a cabinet saw. After watching this I'll give them a second look but even so...it seems there may be other tools to do these same functions. Excellent video and instruction! Thanks!

[@Ritalie]

Keep in mind, you can "push" the blade into the cut. Just clamp the stock down, or hold it down firmly, and then push the cut. A miter saw does a "push cut" and they don't have any problems at all doing this. The other thing, if you make your cut, just get a "anti-kickback blade" like a Diablo 40 tooth multipurpose blade... Using the "old" style blades without the "limiters" in between each tooth (non--cutting teeth) the blade will try to climb too much.

[@timbarry5080]

That looks like a nice saw. My grandfather bought a new dewalt 10" version in the 60s to help build his house. I used that many times. It was a beauty. That was back when dewalt made real tools. I always loved seeing the giant radial arm saws in old school lumber yards. I wish I had one

[@nicolasbroodryk3407]

Thanks for making this video. I started manufacturing beehives at the beginning of the year and this convinced me that the RAS was the tool to go for. I was lucky enough to get the same Rockwell as yours for $230 (R3500 here in SA). Best decision I have ever made.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Nice!

[@stevehughes55]

@@TheNorthlandWorkshop The reason your Blade guard is hard to use, is your fence is too high. Mine only is 1/2 inch above the deck. On the occasion I need a higher fence for example cutting Crown Molding I will pop in a higher fence, but for the everyday use of crosscutting and ripping dimensional lumber a high fence is not needed.. Sorry for posting this here but I did not see the public comments section open. Great video though..

[@drick1280]

Now that I'm retired. I'm in the process of making a new wheeled work bench with built in table saw, router, drill press, miter saw etc. While drawing up plans I remembered the old radial arm saw my dad left me which had been disassembled collecting dust and unused for years sitting in the corner of the shop. This was the first major power saw I used as a kid and I loved it. I have always wanted to set it up again because of many uses it has like making dado cuts where you can actually see and control the cut. My dad taught me the safe way to use it and I respected it and never had any issues. Any way I started thinking maybe I could incorporate this into the bench using a flip up design. I think I've worked out the bugs in the idea and am going to include it in the bench. I haven't heard much of anyone else doing this and would love to see if anyone has video of their flip ups if there are any. You did a great job on this video and got my juices flowing again thinking about all of the use I will get out of this old Craftsman again.

[@Ritalie]

Well, do you have any videos on your saw? What model is it? I have a 1978 Craftsman and I absolutely love it! It cuts like a precision machine shop tool, it's dead on accurate, and so quiet that you don't even need hearing protection. I also bought a Dewalt 770 Deluxe 10" radial arm saw for $50, because why not?? haha.

[@terrydanks]

Been using a RAS for near 50 years. Great to see someone who knows what he's about! Surprisingly, I did not find anything I was doing wrong all these years. Guess I studied long and hard all those years ago as I wanted to go out with the same number of limbs and digits as my ma gave me at birth.

[@Kevsadone]

Great video. I appreciate it so much. I always like to learn from fellow woodworkers and try as much as possible to stay away from the "content creators" that are all over YT with their sponsorships. All the best to you and stay safe.

[@jasonji1900]

Just bought a used RAS off Craigslist. Thanks much for the clear, complete, and excellent instruction.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

jasonji1900 glad the video could be of assistance! What type of RAS is it?

[@jasonji1900]

The Northland Workshop I got a Rigid one. It’s not nearly the saw as a DEWALT or other good one, but it was cheap, and it seems in decent shape. Just about done getting it set up to run straight and true, and building it a new table.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

jasonji1900 while I haven’t used a Ridgid RAS myself I know someone who has one and he likes it. Once it’s all set up I’m sure it will work just fine.

[@freewaybaby]

Nice demonstration that explains, even to a complete novice, how to use this kind of saw...and what not to do. I’m still not sure I can use one, but now I know what it will do. Thank you for your thorough explanations of each blade application.

[@jackofalltrades22]

I am being given a RAS and I have never used one b4 so this was very educational for me. Thank you so much

[@papounetpatenaude]

I'm sure I would have ripped using the same spin as the crosscut! It seemed like the obvious thing to do. Until I watched your explanation! And my RAS came with the top screwed on. I didn't realize I could move the boards around like that! Moving the guide all the way back to the support arm, removed my concern of not being able to rip wide boards. I bought my saw yesterday and I think your video is required watching! Thanks!

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Gilbert Patenaude I’m glad this video helped! Thanks for watching!

[@robmunro1310]

Excellent advice, thanks for taking the time to share. Bought my 1st used radial arm saw yesterday a Tatry single phase to accompany my Hitachi sliding compound saw and Ryobi table saw.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Tatry is a quality saw I think you’re really going to like it!

[@joshcommet137]

just made it to dato head in ripping position part of video, awesome!!!!

[@JohnyLatelyCome]

Best radial arm saw video I’ve seen so far, I love radial arm saws especially the old Dewalts, I picked up a DeWALT model GE and it is unstoppable with that 7.5hp motor

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Eugene Tavares 7.5 hp? That’s a monster! Does it take a 16” blade?

[@JohnyLatelyCome]

Yes it does, the sound of the motor doesn’t even change when I cross cut through 5in x 10in walnut mantle.

[@billmactiernan6304]

Good video! Its the second best radial arm saw video on KZbin. If you are going to rip, you should get the pawls (anti ejection) for your saw. The pawls prevent ejection and the rod serves as a guard for the back of the blade.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Bill MacTiernan thanks. Like I said in the video I have been trying to find a set of pawls for this saw for ten years now and it seems to be the only part of this saw I can’t find used.

[@bitbyterjr]

@@TheNorthlandWorkshop If you search the woodworking forums or one of the Dewalt RAS specific forums I believe someone has a thread on how to make your own pall.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Jason Raynor I’ll have to look for that thread, thanks.

[@BeachsideHank]

@@TheNorthlandWorkshop Absent that, find a rod or stock that installs in the nosing for the pawl assembly, reason is when you adjust the blade guard for in or out rip, you can expose a hazardous amount of blade such that if you're doing a reach- around, the blade is not readily visible and your hand could make contact with it. Do an unpowered setup, you'll see what I mean. And don't put off visiting the Delphi forum, although DeWalt- centric, all RAS users are welcome.

[@KevinCoop1]

Very nice video! I have had RAS since 1984. Still have all digits and thumbs. I cringed every time I saw you touch the blade. I never touch a saw blade of any saw that is plugged in. Chances are extremely rare of it starting, but I like 100% sure. One thing you did not mention is that the saw MUST be set up exact before using it. Otherwise, you will never be happy with it and only use it for rough cross cuts. These can be highly accurate saws. I just saw that you made a video on this, excellent! I wish you had included the number of times it happened to you when you were giving warnings about the dangers. The worst thing that has ever happened to me was a dull blade tried to come forward on a crosscut. The motor stalled. These saws can do way more than a table saw. For instance, set a stop for the right length, and cut 15 pieces of 1x4 at the same exact length with one pull. Put a clamp on the stack, cut 60 pieces in seconds.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Kevin Coop thanks for watching! I’m not quite following about talking about the number of times something has happened to me? Number of what?

[@KevinCoop1]

The Northland Workshop "Do not rip in this direction because it can pull in the wood and shoot it across the shop". Additional comment, it has never happened to me, or it happened once because I was doing this. You left it that the probability of injury was high, but if you are careful and do what you are supposed to, the probability of injury is very very low. I have come way closer to injury with my wood lathe.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Kevin Coop I hate to disappoint you but I’ve never had that happen. it is common for people to do that and it is the number one reason people get scared to rip on the RAS. Plus it’s not intuitive which side to feed the wood in like it is on a table saw so I emphasized about feed direction.

[@KevinCoop1]

The Northland Workshop I'm not disappointed! I assumed you have had no issues because I have one and know. I'm just saying it would have been good to tell those who don't have a RAS that the things possible rarely happen, or do not happen if you do them correctly.

[@billrey8221]

My biggest problem with a radial arm saw was to get the blade to cut square with the fence (or parallel when ripping) I very quickly learned that that was important. My Dewalt saw has, I think, a crude adjustment system which takes some time to set to get it right. The fact that the saw got wet made it even more difficult. Good video! Thanks!.

[@1AXMRDR]

Bill Rey You're right, it is kinda backwards. The outter part of the bed has to be squared to the fence and bolted down. Then ANY straight fence will be squared to the blade and take up the difference with the adjustment knobs at the back of the saw.... Unless yours is like his. Lol

[@calitri10]

almost sure, recently i acquired a radial arm saw here in Mexico. you video has been useful a lot. I want to make a video showing and telling a little about my experience using it. Thanks!!!!

[@coolbreezeatp]

Great video. I like that table and the way your panel raising auxiliary table fits right in there. I really like my old 9 inch DeWalt so I bought two more. Thank you for the great block of instruction.

[@robertgroves6186]

Thanks for the video, very informative. I was given an old RAS by DeWalt / Black & Decker, rusty & ugly but it worked. I am rebuilding it for my small shop & this will help get the table built.

[@yuyo57]

Thanks for the nice in-depth instructions because I want to keep my fingers. Great Video!!

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Thanks for watching.

[@daleparker9049]

Thanks! I was considering buying a radial arm saw and this video really helped to understand them.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Glad I could help.

[@Musket33]

Excellent! The radial arm saw is still relevant. I love mine, and learned some new techniques from your video.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

I’m glad it was helpful.

[@Motorpig251]

Yes, I recently had one very similar to this given to me. I haven't used it any at all simply because I didn't know how to use it. Pretty much was scared to even try after looking it over and discovering the various threats that was never pointed out to me. After watching your video I now plan on trying to use it a little. Looking forward to playing with it a little this weekend. Thanks for the video.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Troy Gurley glad I could help!

[@Ace345499]

Great video, starting to see a revival in the RAS. Would love to see a maintenance video on the saw as I just picked up the exact saw. Needs some love before it is ready to cut.

[@maxfedor1]

Look for mr sawdust radial arm saw book, or another great book on RAS setup is a book from Jon eakes (fine tuning your radial arm saw). Both great books mr sawdust has proper plans on how to build a better new top for saw. Once set up this Rockwell 40c way more accurate then miter saws, and they stay true for a long time

[@maxfedor1]

Oh and get a negative rake angle blade for saw

[@joshcommet137]

thank you for this video! i just got a radial arm saw and was wondering the feed direction for when i rip but i learned that and so much more. thanks again

[@chadwickpainter8212]

Well done mate. You really demystified this tool for me. Also, I can see exactly why I need one of these. Thank you for the video.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Chadwick Painter glad I could help. Thanks for watching.

[@NMranchhand]

Well, that was very enjoyable. You’ve figured out many clever approaches to this machine. Two things from my beginner’s research so far: it seems like many saw tables are such that there is a sacrificial 3/4 slab on the front portion such that the original base never gets cut and forms a sort of trough then it under the blade in the home position so that it’s not n contact with a surface when it starts spinning, and 2. Seems Ike it would be great if your screw-down fence art time 33:00 had a couple of hold down toggle clamps on it. Thanks for all the great info and inspiration.

[@DeltonNelson]

This video is absolutely fantastic! I wish I saw this video a year ago when I got my Ras. I didn't know you can turn the blade upside down and cut things like raised panels or do tongue and groove.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Delton50 Nelson50 thanks for watching! Don’t worry it’s never too late to try something new with a radial arm saw (or any tool for that matter).

[@bendugas8632]

Thank you for showing the safe use and correct method in doing operations.

[@tyastyke]

Great Tutorial, thank you for posting. I have a Radial Arm Say that was passed on to me from my late father but there were some aspects of it I was not too sure about and so its just sat in my shop and very rarely used. You have covered a great many ways of using the saw with a great number of excellent safety tips that I now have a lot more confidence in putting it to work more than my contractors table saw. The jig for cutting the raised panels is a beauty and so simple and a lot more safer than the upright jig and clamps I have to use to cut them on the table saw. Thanks once again.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Dave Palmer glad I could help and thanks for watching!

[@5amfocus]

Great video I can give this a thumbs up because I just bought a RAS and will take all the safety precautions so I keep my thumbs. Thanks for the great video!

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Randy Nelson thanks for watching! Enjoy your new RAS.

[@jdc5941]

Outstanding explanation as to safety and operation. Thanks for sharing your knowledge. I have an old Craftsman radial arm saw which I like using a lot, very quick and convenient to use. I subscribed to your channel. Keep putting out your KZbin's.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

JD Curtis thanks for watching! Expect a new video this weekend.

[@MFredericksburg]

Best video I have seen on the saw. Thank you.

[@PieOrCake1974]

This is the longest video I've watched on the Tubes lately, and it was well worth it. I now have a much better understanding of the RAS I just bought, and things to consider when making a new table for it. Do you ever get kickback while ripping without a pawl? My RAS doesn't have one either, and I'm a little worried about ripping without it.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Pie Or Cake thanks for watching! I would highly recommend using the anti-kickback pawls when ripping. Have I ever experienced kickback while ripping? I can honestly say no I never have. That isn’t to say it can’t happen, it just hasn’t happened to me yet. The biggest thing is that the blade must be parallel to the fence or it will kick back.

[@gregghernandez2714]

I will probably never own a radial arm saw because my workshop has to be shared with my car, which will soon be a truck. I had mixed feelings about these saws, but in the end, it is just like any other tool. If you take the time to learn how it works, and respect it's power and it's limitations you should be fine. If I did get one, I would probably want to invest in a restored Dewalt from the 40s or 50s. I hear those are fine machines worth having. Your Rockwell is nice and heavy duty, and they have always made great tools. Thanks for this tutorial, your expertise is obvious and you really can tell you know what you are doing in the shop. Take care.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Gregg Hernandez thanks for watching. The old DeWalts are excellent machines. Since filming this video I have added a 1959 DeWalt 1030 to my shop and can attest to the pre-1960s DeWalts being excellent machines. You are right in that knowing how to use your tools and respecting what they can and can’t do is key to safety in the workshop. As for sharing a workshop with a car or truck, my suggestion is to put everything on wheels. I put wheels on all of my tools because I seem to have to move them more often than you would think. The only piece of equipment I don’t have on wheels is the bandsaw because it danced around too much.

[@SuperBardley]

The RAS is actually pretty good in cramped shops because, unlike the table saw, we don't need to provide lots of access on all 4 sides of the machine for the stock overhang. The RAS only needs infeed & outfeed space, plus a 3' - 4' area in front of the machine; the best thing is that the RAS can be operated with the rear of it against a wall.

[@billmiller9234]

Thank you for this video, I have been using a radial arm saw for a few years now, but I have learned a lot, did not know about raise panels, will be making a new table/jig to have a go and I took other bits of information from it so thank you

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Bill Miller thanks for watching! Glad it could be of use.

[@6472275455]

Very awesome, confident instruction.Clear as a bell!

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Thanks !

[@RANDALLOLOGY]

I learned a new way to do raised panels. Good detailed video. Thanks 👍

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

I’m glad you found it helpful. Thanks for watching!

[@rodyates2669]

My Paulcall saw is very like your Rockwell. (Very hard to set it accurately, incidentally.) Your video makes me realise that I have been ripping from the wrong side,, which was pretty scary for the last couple of days. I'll try your advice tomorrow, and hope I still have enough fingers left to play the piano afterwards.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Playing chopsticks is always an option.

[@rockyhart3578]

I ran a commercial size radial arm saw in my dad's pallet shop when I was 10-12 years old. Mainly because I wasn't big enough to handle the 16ft 4x4's we cut 16 hours a day. My job was to stop the moving timber at the mark & jerk the arm as fast as I could. Green oak 4x4 in no more than 2 or 3 seconds. Still have 10 digits at 64 yrs old.

[@whatwouldgdonowgvkpierce6879]

Rocky Hart I’m 62 still have all mine too!

[@davidboston4574]

Great video!! About time someone showed a good video on this saw, very nice!!!!

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Thanks!

[@benschmolze1266]

Great video, and thank you. I'm about to purchase my first radial arm saw.

[@1barron]

Great video I learned a few things. Several years ago I bought a used Craftsman from a friend who restores wood boats. I was about to buy a sliding miter saw. He offered me this saw and threw in a combination belt/disk sander. The reason he wanted to get ride of it he tried to make a rip cut and thru the stock across his shop. I seldom use it for ripping mostly because my table saw requires less set up. But I use almost never use the table saw for cross cuts. BTW I some times get salvage old rough cut timbers ten to twelve feet long. I have benches on both ends of my saw making dealing with long boards a piece of cake. Thanks again.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Carl Wehner thanks for watching! I tend to rip plywood with mine since it can rip 32” wide vs my table saw’s 24”.

[@KC2ATE]

Excellent tutorial on radial arm saws!!!

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Thanks!

[@jimherchak7505]

Good video. Building myself a little shop this summer, and though I love my table saw, it would take up most of the new space. However, if I left it where it is (in the garage, which it shares with 2 cars) then I could fit a RAS in the shop for most of my cutting. It would take some getting used to, but I sure like its versatility.

[@theslimeylimey]

Excellent.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Thanks!

[@oldowl4290]

Great RAS tutorial. I used an old Sears Craftsman a lot as a kid helping my dad build our house. I was always very fearful of it but that fear is also what helps you avoid mistakes. After having used a compound sliding miter for the last decade I want an RAS for the versatility. What model Rockwell is this.. 30-C?

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

This one is a 14-RAS which Rockwell used to call a 40C.

[@Ritalie]

39:00. Northland Workshop, you have solid titanium balls. That rip dado cut with a 10" dado and no anti-kickback pawls is the stuff of legend.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

I didn’t choose the thug life…

[@DeWaltRadialguy]

Great Video! You did a wonderful job! Thanks for showing many people how these radials, if set up properly and used the proper way can do everything. Ripping and doing dado's is so much fun and easy. Like mentioned below by Airborne Ranger.....PLEASE GET the Anti Kick back pawl and a push board for ripping. I may be able to help you with a pawl.....I have way too many Radials. 65 of them! It's a terrible addiction! All DeWalts. Again, Very well done! Thank you.

[@paulseebach5978]

Hi Leo, Being so addicted I doubt you would want to part with one but I'll ask anyway. Any chance there's one that you'd care to unload at a fair price? The only saw I own is an old B&D hand held that I got from my dad when he past. I'm not much of a wood worker but a RAS would come in real handy now and again. What state are you, as I am in MN?

[@BeachsideHank]

@@paulseebach5978 Do a Craigslist search, many are found there.

[@elizabethjacksonhall8967]

Thank you very much for this clear, informative video. I'd always wanted a radial arm saw and picked up a used Craftsman from a neighbour. Unfortunately my only prior experience with a one was at University, with a tool that only had partial functionality. I'm excited to cut a few baseboard bevels today! I'm going to look to see if you have any video tips for cutting deep cove.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Thanks for watching. Unfortunately I don’t have a video about cove cutting yet. It will be included in an up coming video about making moldings on the radial arm saw.

[@bryonlittle4341]

I found this video very helpful!! Well done!

[@PeriodWoodworker]

Very nice presentation and your techniques are good. Thanks fore sharing, Steve

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

PeriodWoodworker thanks for watching!

[@benaldi2]

Thank you,I found this video very helpful. I have only used my saw for cross cutting so far. Alf

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

benaldi2 thanks for watching!

[@mcdatacomm155]

Great vid man. Thank you. I am getting ready to buy a RAS and so I needed to see this

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Glad I could help.

[@joshbaker4132]

Those are really good saws, I have one of the old mutiplex ones. I would definitely use feather boards or board buddies in ripping. Other than that some great details on being safe with one. I haven't seen doing raised panels with one but I may do that over using my table saw.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Josh Baker I like raising panels on the RAS because they lay flat on the table.

[@gadsden1957]

You could have a local machine shop fabricate one for you, it might be pretty cheap since it is such a simple job. it's just a shaft with a groove and a hole in one end and the pawls can be cut from very thick sheet metal. or just get a piece of bar-stock and make it with handtools

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

gadsden1957 I’ve thought about making one because like you said there isn’t much to the anti kickback pawls. It’s on my list of things to upgrade in my shop.

[@affordableairgunningbyjb6994]

Thanks for the time and effort. Good safety tips... Recently bought an old Dewalt, but will only start using next year... Cannot wait !! Ps: Congratulations on 1K subscribers !!

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Affordable Air Gunning By JB thanks! What model DeWalt did you get?

[@affordableairgunningbyjb6994]

@@TheNorthlandWorkshop Old DW 125. They have become disproportionately expensive in South Africa (Actually ALL TOOLS are super expensive there...), but second hand they are still affordable. Mine seems good condition, but I would have to do full strip down and "rebuild" (just because i am full of sh#t) On my way now to go and buy blades.....

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Affordable Air Gunning By JB I just looked up the DW 125 since it isn’t a model that was available in the US. It looks like a fine saw I think you’ll like it a lot.

[@ralphpezda6523]

You can easily set clamps to hold the workpiece with a radial saw for cuts except ripping. ViseGrip makes "half clamp" units with one spring loaded arm and jaw. The mating side is a large bolt with a wing nut. Drill whatever holes you need in your table top and mount the clamps through the hole(s). The clamp then acts the same as standard style fixture clamps. Use two clamps and off you go. That way you don't need to touch the workpiece, that hand won't be anywhere near the blade, and you can stand off to the right side of the blade if you want to. Just make sure the blade and guards won't hit the clamps. As for ripping, I have done it on a radial saw but a table saw is much better suited for it. The radial saw when ripping cuts up from underneath the work piece. If it cut from the top down it can grab and throw the work off the table in the direction the blade spins. My first machine saw was a radial saw, so like the author of the video I am used to it. But to use it safely you need to have a very serious respect for the injuries it can cause in a flash if you use if improperly. Many blades have or had silver soldered carbide tips on them which were supposed to be good for 3500 rpm. I know of no instance where one came apart a launched a sharp tip or two into space, but I never wanted to be the first person to find out. That was after I used my first radial saw wrong and it threw a slice of wood into my right palm and a piece of the same wood through an adjacent wall. Seven or eight stitches later I was fine. I have a new saw in the same place as the old one. The hole in the wall is still there, as is the scar on my palm, now thirty years later. Both remind me every time I use machinery, especially saws and other reciprocating power tools, not to be in a hurry and above all not to be an idiot, especially when using a radial saw.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

I have had two occasions where carbide teeth come off blades. One hit a nail hidden in the workpiece and I’m not sure what caused the other one to let go.

[@derbyct864]

Do you use the arbor and accessories on the RAS? Can youattach drill chuck and router bits or surface planer? Thank you for video very informative

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Yes I have videos on using various attachments on the ras.

[@dayosingh]

Good job, man. Clear and concise .

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Dayanand Singh thanks!

[@bigrich6750]

Excellent information. I just acquired my first RAS so looking forward to putting it to good use.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Big Rich nice, what brand RAS?

[@joanaadams444]

@@TheNorthlandWorkshop It's a Craftsman. Not sure the model. It belonged to my neighbor who was an avid Woodworker/Carpenter like me. He died and his widow gave it to me. At first I really didn't want it because I thought they were obsolete, but your video made me glad that I ended up with it (just saw that my wife's profile ended up on this post. Not sure why -- oh well!)

[@1AXMRDR]

Thank you for sharing this information. Nicely done.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

AXMRDR thanks for watching!

[@mars-lquebec9776]

May i give you a tip ? When you use a sliding compond miter saw make a half cut of the piece by PULLING the saw toward you and finish the cut by REVERSING the movement. If you do this, the teets will cut the wood downward the first time and upward when you go back to finish the cut. Doing so you will always have the finest cut ever. Even with a mélamine product! Try that !

[@tpcouturier]

I have this same saw that I picked up at auction 4 or 5 years ago that I just brought to life today for the first time since I bought it. It has a 3HP motor (manufactured by Marathon) wired for 230V using the original Rockwell LVC starter. It seems to run fine, but I'd like to change out the old LVC starter with a more modern setup (the old starter is looks pretty worn out and brittle) but I'm not an electrician and quite frankly it's a bit confusing when trying to figure out exactly what I need. Any advice would be greatly appreciated from this amateur looking to get serious about woodworking. Great video and I will be referencing it often as I practice and hone my skills with the Radial Arm Saw.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Tim Couturier if you want ultra simple I’d search amazon for “power tool switch” I found one that has a big stop paddle and is rated at 230v 20amps. I can’t seem to post the link here but you’ll see it if you search for it. Mine has a LVC that I pieced together out of old motor starter parts I had laying around. It’s a little different since my saw is 3 phase so I had to use a 3 pole magnetic contactor. If it had been single phase I would have just gone with the simple push button tool switch.

[@hassanal-mosawi4235]

Thanks for sharing those tips and the make!

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Thanks for watching!

[@stephenshipley1066]

Thank you. Very informative. I'll be fixing the table on my De Walt now!

[@maxfedor1]

Google mr sawdust radial arm table. He considered a legend when it comes to RAS

[@dre7637]

Just found your channel and it’s awesome!

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Thanks!

[@kgk4]

Thank you for a very clear presentation of your RAS!

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

You’re welcome!

[@leonardobonacci8238]

Excellent video., very informative. Thank you very much!

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Thanks for watching!

[@baldiscythe7269]

young boy

[@johnterpack3940]

Another thing to consider is that a larger blade will be less likely to climb because of the angle at which the teeth contact the workpiece. This is the same reason, for example, that the tiny wheels of an office chair can't roll over an extension cord while the larger wheels on a rolling trash can have much less trouble getting over the cord. Combine the relatively small blades of the typical home-use RAS with the weaker arm and it's easy to see why they were renowned for climbing. The big industrial machines with the cast iron arms and 14-16 inch blades didn't suffer from the same ill reputation.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

John Terpack I never really thought about the blade diameter having an effect of the tendency to climb but you’re right, the smaller blade would try to climb more. In fact I used a 10” Delta from the 1990’s several years ago and it was everything wrong with small homeowner sized saws. It climbed, its adjustments won’t stay put, and it was woefully under powered.

[@johnterpack3940]

@@TheNorthlandWorkshop I was searching the web for used saws earlier and found a guy selling a pair of industrial beauties for $300. They had 16" blades and used 3-phase power. I'll guarantee they cut smooth as silk. I wish I had the cash and the space to adopt them. I'll just have to figure out how to upgrade one of the cheap ones.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

John Terpack if you have a lot of patience you might be able to get them for free. The one I have was for sale for $120 but because it is 3 phase nobody would touch it. I looked at it and offered them $0 for it since it was 3 phase and I wasn’t sure at the time what it would take run it at my house. They didn’t accept that offer. After trying to sell it for 4 years the owner told me I could have it for free if I hauled it away so they could free up their shop space. They even helped load it in my truck! Granted it took 4 years from when I first heard saw the saw to when I acquired it but this thing was worth it.

[@johnterpack3940]

@@TheNorthlandWorkshop patience is easy, I don't need a saw. If it takes months to find one I'll survive. I'm just a home mechanic trying to save several hundred dollars by building my own tool cabinet. I could probably make do with the ancient Skil saw I have. But something tells me a radial arm saw would be worth the money.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

John Terpack oh they’re defiantly worth the money.

[@GeorgeLowrey]

I wish a manufacturer would design and produce a RAS incorporating SawStop-like safety technology. The RAS has many advantages over the table saw. The conventional wisdom is that the RAS is more dangerous, but SawStop technology would overcome this prejudice.

[@flashgordon6238]

Good explanation of out-rip vs in-rip. Blade facing out, blade facing in.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Thanks for watching!

[@timothycraig2206]

Excellent video! Thank you!

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Thanks for watching!

[@claudiuspulcher2440]

The dust collection tube blocked the "do not rip this direction" on mine and I had been doing it for years. No, it didn't work well. But I can't wait to try it the correct way and see how much easier it should be...

[@tjm3900]

Great video, Nice saw ! I fully agree with removing the guard, anything that can hang up the saw when cutting can be a hazard, as our first reaction is to pull harder. The guard would not prevent cutting your fingers off if in the way of the blade. Better to see the blade! I do not like the possiton of the on/off switch. I would want to hold the saw by it's handle when switching on, incase the blade is in any contact with the table, and could self power the blade forward. A knee operated emergency off switch would be nice also.

[@TheNorthlandWorkshop]

Yeah, I’m not sure why they originally put the switch there. The one good thing is that it would be pretty hard to accidentally turn it on from there. I like the knee operated safety switch idea.

[@kellyjohnson4879]

I believe that if you have a direction arrow for the rotation of your blade it will always indicate what direction you need to feed the wood for ripping.