The Complete Guide to Operating a Radial Arm Saw

[@ScreamingEagleFTW]

Its so good to see a reasonable, rational human being explain something in this day and age.

[@vanman798]

Thank you so much!

[@danamiller6049]

Well done!

[@veecantu6915]

Great video thank you for the time and effort you put into making this video

[@bobbg9041]

That blade looks to aggressive.

[@garychiuminatto917]

Excellent video. I’m so tired of the table saw users criticizing and talking down on the radial arm saw. I own a De Walt 12” contractor grade RAS and I think it’s great. Basically as you stated, one needs to learn the saw completely and how to properly use it. The saw is only as safe as the person operating it. Keep up the great videos. Thanks

[@vanman798]

Thanks! Yea the RAS has a learning curve, that's why the haters hate on it.

[@jasenking4092]

I am new to the RAS, my wife and I just watched this video and thank you for your amazing explanation. We both feel better about me using it. Your method and detailed instructions were on point. Best safety/ training video I have seen in a long time.

[@vanman798]

I'm glad you liked the video Enjoy your saw.

[@jonathanbrown5552]

I have owned a craftsman radial arm saw since the early 80s. For many years, it was the main saw in my home shop used for crafting and home renovations. I purchased it over a table saw because it was more versatile. Over the years, I have added a table saw and bandsaw. The RAS is still my go-to for croscuts. After 40 years and countless hours, the craftsman still performs perfectly. It is truly a well-made tool, and I have never regretted my choice.

[@vanman798]

Yea, they are great tools for sure!

[@Docv400]

Excellent video, so refreshing not to have an annoying intro, just the facts laid out properly, and well explained.

[@scouser2230]

I bought a Craftsman radial arm saw, like yours, in 1973 from Sears. I used it to finish my unfinished basement as an extremely novice, and created a beautiful English pub. I ripped barn board for various areas, plywood cabinets for behind the bar. I crosscut 2”X4” framing, trim work, and dadoed lots of pieces of wood. In retrospect I feel very fortunate, having watched your video, that I still have all my fingers and hands. It was a long time ago and I hope I read and understood the operating instructions, although I don’t remember doing so. I disposed of my radial arm saw in the late 1980’s, and so I no longer have to worry about hurting myself with it. I wish KZbin and your video had been available in 1973 so I would have fully understood the risks of operating them.

[@vanman798]

@scouser2230 I totally relate. I used these saws in the 1980s with no real understanding of the hazards, but somehow I luckily got away with it too. Many people appreciate this video and I'm glad I've been able to get this valuable information out.

[@blymark83]

Greatest concluding pep talk in a tool video of all time. Well done!!

[@vanman798]

@blymark83 well thank you!

[@clay1883]

Very informative with critical safety alerts. My old heavy Craftsman (1984) saw is still serving me well. The smaller sliding miter saws are a lot more portable, but they will not take the place of my old saw. I recently took it to my Daughters house for a renovation of her 12x16 work shop. It has a covered porch (8x12) and a 16x8 uncovered deck. All were rotten. Trim, joists, flooring, 4x4 porch posts, hand rails, etc. Pretty big project for me. My old saw is VERY heavy, so I easily removed the motor/power head, and removed the saw frame from the cabinet. It is working very well mounted to some plywood and clamped to saw horses. The weight of the saw allows ripping as needed the longer and heavy 2x6 boards without the saw sliding about. Sorry for the long post. Thanks again!

[@grannydeen1586]

My Craftsman RAS is from 1977. It has been on the job site many times, too. I prefer the slide compound miter saw and portable table saw now. Besides, the miter saw is infinitely more accurate than the radial saw ever thought of being. I still use the radial saw to create custom moldings and to perform other tasks but my 1984 Rockwell Unisaw has replaced it for almost every other function.

[@stevejacobs7838]

It has all been said below - brilliant, to the point, no wise-cracks, just pure, useful and valuable information. I watched this because I was about to sell my DeWalt RAS. Now I will keep it, thank you Walter.

[@vanman798]

Thanks for the kind words, I'm glad you found the video useful/informative. Have a great day!

[@ronz.8439]

Thanks Walter. I've had my Sears Radial arm saw since 1967 and love it's versatility. I've also been very careful using it and am aware of the safety issues. Your video is the most comprehensive I have ever seen. Thanks again.

[@grannydeen1586]

I got home from work one day and entering through my shop I noticed the window directly behind my radial saw with a rectangular hole and cracks running in all directions. My dad explained that he had come to use it to rip some small stock and fed the first piece from the wrong direction.

[@vanman798]

@@grannydeen1586 Dang! These saw should be understood before being used, the consequences of guessing are too high.

[@jamespuig4858]

I purchased a new one about 40 years ago and a second one (used) 15 years ago and another used in excellent condition last week. All these years working with this saw you have just given me new safety tips that I know nothing about! Thank you.

[@vanman798]

That is great to hear, thank you for the feedback. They are great saw, aren't they!!!

[@woodworker5413]

This is the best description of safely ripping on a RAS that I have seen on youtube.

[@vanman798]

Thanks for the compliment.

[@tnhwyman]

Glad our paths crossed. Inherited one of these bad boys and in the process of putting it back together. Thanks to you sir my understanding has gained 10 fold.

[@treaustin1]

Just inherited one also. So many ways to control it. Definitely takes some time to understand it.

[@dabluox]

I bought my Sears RAS in 1969. I had two friends one with a RAS and the other a table saw. Watching them and seeing how each saw operates I decided on the RAS. The blade is always in view you know exactly where it’s cutting. So my saw is now 53 years old and is still a stalwart in my shop. I also have a very nice cabinet saw and use them both. Thanks for this very informative video.

[@SIMMONSx22xPOINTx0H]

Thanks for this information! Picking up two saws today as a DIYer. Super excited to see what I can do with these things.

[@kjp4drums]

Thanks for in-depth explanations of cuts, techniques, and especially safety concerns for the RAS. I’ve used one in my shop for over 25 years. One technique that I’ve used for ripping tappers and stock with uneven edges is to clamp a straight edge to the piece that I’m cutting and use the front edge of the table to guide the straight edge, leaving an inch or two space between the fence and the piece edge. There’s no chance for binding between the blade and the fence. This technique is explained by Wally Kunkel, in his book, How to Master The Radial Arm Saw.

[@vanman798]

Thank you! That is an excellent tip.

[@grannydeen1586]

That is a great tip. Also, if the fence is a concern, remove it.

[@garychiuminatto917]

Great tip. Sounds like you have read some books on how to use the saw and not just going to work thinking you’re an expert. That’s the problem with the table saw experts!!!

[@annv7279]

Really appreciate your plain clear explanations and demonstrations. I have a healthy respect for the tool, both in application and danger. Thanks

[@lanceballard455]

Glad I listened to your explanation. I have used a radial arm saw for quite awhile for cross-cuts and miter cuts. Thanks

[@rickvandenberg]

I have an RAS and I know how to use it, and adjust it. But this video was a real treat to watch, and reminders are always a good thing to me. Thanks!

[@vanman798]

Glad to hear that!

[@mjhetzer]

Wonderful. I inherited one of these, a 1970 10" Craftsman with a stuck arm. I refurbished it but I have been leery about using a tool I have never used, seen used or know anyone who uses. This video gives me enough understanding to give it go. Thanks!

[@vanman798]

Awesome. Be safe and have fun!

[@vmoutsop]

Awesome video. This should be required viewing for anyone with a radial arm saw before they use one.

[@brooklynbound75]

Very much appreciate this video. We just recently purchased a home and the seller asked us if we wanted them to leave the craftsman radial saw in the shop. Without hesitating I said yes but was a little concerned I've never used one before. Your video answers many of my questions. Thank you, subscribed.

[@kluckey19691]

This is an excellent video! And the first out of many I’ve seen that actually explain in such extensive detail about what could go wrong and why. Thank you. We need more content providers like you.

[@vanman798]

Thanks, I appreciate the compliment. Have a great day.

[@markkolmorgan7728]

Best radial arm saw video I've ever seen, great advice!

[@vanman798]

Thanks, I'm so glad you find it useful.

[@jjyemg2397]

Nice job. I've used a RAS off and on for 40 years and loved your review and reminders

[@vanman798]

Thank you!

[@PatHancock]

Thanks. Appreciate your refresher. I love my RA saw, it doubles as a 4 ft workbench with double front vices. My dad built a home with this saw in about 1960. Saw new from Sears over $600. It works.

[@gregorycotten7386]

What a well kept saw, it’s immaculate! I got a 1972 Craftsman this weekend and it purrs like a kitten!

[@vanman798]

Thanks. That's what I'd hear about my 20-year old truck also! Enjoy your saw. The RAS is my favorite power tool.

[@HVACKABOOM]

Thanks for the clear and straightforward video.

[@EugeneFir]

Like other commenters here, I too have an RAS (actually 5). I had never found too many RAS YT vids until recently, when new RAS videos have started popping up, including yours. I came here out of curiosity and subscribed/bell because of the quality content. Though you do not focus on woodworking (et. al.) your other videos appear to match my interests and are likely to be of similar quality. I look forward to perusing your wisdom and adventures. Thank you.

[@captainkepcon8194]

That is a beautiful saw you have there. I have a Craftsman Electronic radial arm saw circa 1983 although it is in nowhere as nice of condition as yours. With the electronic radial arm saw you program in the height change on a keypad on the face of the arm. It also reads out degree of bevel and miter. This was really advanced for the early eighties. I believe I paid about $400.00 new back then. I also purchased the adjustable dado cutter which I believe is easier to set up than the stack dados. As far as these saws being more dangerous than a table saw I've got my finger in the table saw twice (same finger) and haven't managed to cut a digit with the radial arm saw (knock on wood). The most common ways a radial arm saw will get you it either kicking a piece of wood back when ripping or having the saw get too aggressive in a cross cut and pulling itself through the cut ( and your hand if it's in the way). You gotta be careful of either saw-never get too comfortable using them. I believe if I could only have a table saw or a radial arm saw I would choose the radial arm saw.

[@guybaehr8124]

I've always used my Craftsman RAS, since I bought it in1981, and always felt it was safer than a table saw. Using a RAS you always know where the blade is and can keep your eye on it. As long as you are careful to line up and position the wood carefully and set the height of blade guard and kickback guard correctly, you shouldn't have kickback problems. And I always use a pushstick for rip cuts and to avoid being in the line of fire. To me, table saws are scary because the blade can be hidden or otherwise it's out and exposed when it's cutting and your hands tend to get closer during the cutting process. I guess table saw users get used to all this, but it just feels very dangerous to me. Anyway, thanks for the tips. There a few I did not know but will use in the future.

[@trickster11300]

Excellent explanations thank you. I have the exact same saw that I bought second hand. I have learned an awful lot from these videos and now love my RAS even more. Understanding more is everything. Again, many thanks!

[@carlbruschnigjr1757]

I learned how to use an RAS in the early 70's (Craftsman, what else?) when I was about 12 years old. I've never had a kickback or lost any body parts. Unfortunately, my dad couldn't say the same thing. But we did come up with a few things that helped minimize the risks. A featherboard clamped to the fence can help keep the piece from climbing, and one attached to the table helps keep constant pressure against the fence. A few years ago I managed to buy one at a rummage sale, had it in the garage always planning to use it. It's a 1958 Craftsman, (again, what else?) that I just took apart, thoroughly cleaned, honed the post pivots, and polished the track grooves and the height screw. I replaced the key switch, located on the top of the arm, with a toggle switch. 'Off' is back so that you push away from you to turn off the saw. I've been watching videos about the RAS, yours are among the best I've found so far. One small addition for your table would be to make a very light reference cut (about 1/32" depth) to show the blade track. Darken it with a sharpie. It will tell you the exact locations of the blade.

[@vanman798]

Thanks for taking the time to comment. Your restoring project sounds interesting and rewarding. I appreciate the tips offered as well. It is very kind of you to give me such a nice compliment.

[@bobd5119]

I bought my Sears 10" in 1973. It is an old friend. On mine, the power switch is positioned just above the handle. In crosscut mode, that allows grasping the handle while resting the thumb on the switch. If something goes haywire, a quick poke with the thumb shuts the motor off. I've done that a few times when I've managed to bind the saw. A couple of years ago, the motor refused to turn. Sawdust had clogged the quick-stop switch. A motor repair outfit in Manchester, NH, got it going, though the quick-stop feature is gone. It never occurred to me to blow the dust out of the motor housing every so often. Clamps come in handy. I've clamped small workpieces by clamping a long piece to hold the workpiece, i.e. the long piece holds the workpiece, and a C clamp holds the long piece tight to the table.

[@SniperTrader2023]

I have that exact same saw. It collected dust for a few years but I'm starting to use it again. Really great saw.

[@RYwoodview]

Thank you, Walter! This is a great deal of wisdom. I learned things I never knew about my own RAS (Ryobi, new in the 1990's). My dado set lives on it & it is used only for that. I don't find any other purpose for the RAS compared to my table saw, but that is a real convenience. I liked the idea of the accessory PTO (mine is set up with a collet for pin routing) but I've never used it. This is the Ryobi version that was later recalled for the motor rarely separating itself from it's mount; never had a problem with mine, fortunately.

[@northernalbertaredneck1390]

Excellent Video. Very Informative. Bought a RAS yesterday and after watching your video I'm confident I wont be cutting off my fingers!! Thanks Walter.

[@vanman798]

Glad I could help

[@MarlyAdventures]

I Just got a sears craftsman radial arm saw from my grandpa. This video helped me so much. Thanks for the awesome video!

[@vanman798]

Glad I could help!

[@carldoucet]

Thank you Walter, I didn’t know that these were so versatile

[@vanman798]

Yea aren't they awesomely clever!? Have a great July 4th!

[@planetmikusha5898]

Excellent description of a radial arm saw's operation!

[@vanman798]

Thanks for the compliment.

[@thaivo]

Such a great video. Thank you for taking the time to create this. You likely saved a thousand fingers!

[@JPVY]

Thank you just I watched the entire vid. You likely saved my thumb, fungers, or even an arm. I have a bunch these pop up for 20 to 50 bucks and wondered why so many were getting rid of these so cheaply. 😅😅 Keep saving lives Man!

[@vanman798]

Your welcome!

[@michaelbradford4444]

Very good! About due for a new table and I'll put on a protective cover this time and see how that works. Your info on kickback will save multiple injuries to those who watched and that I'm sure of, good job!

[@ericanderson3324]

still use my arm saw all the time great saw

[@canadiantraveler6060]

Had mine (Craftsman 10"), for 35 years and I NEVER relax while using it. It's a great tool. Use the table saw for most ripping.

[@tkskagen]

My wife has suggested that I "visit" my Father-in-law's Shop to see if there is anything I would make useful. He has a late 1970's 10" Radial Arm Saw very similar to the one in your video, along with 2 Ammo Cans full of New Blades and Accessories. The only issue I have with "possessing" this Saw, is the "Garage/Shop Realestate" that is required! I just don't want to have his Son's "cashing out" his tools and belongings like a Piggy Bank. Sadly situations like this happen every day, and we cannot save all the "good tools" of the days past... I do have my name on his 1970's CRAFTSMAN Belt/Disc Sander, 1970's CRAFTSMAN (14"?) Band Saw, as well as his 1980's CRAFTSMAN 2 Ton Arbor/Shop Press though. At least these are the tools that I know that will be respected and used properly!

[@Migzprojects]

Best video I’ve seen for this saw. Very informative and educational.

[@vanman798]

Thanks

[@Specialeffecks]

I Just picked up a 10" Craftsman Radial Saw last week, put out by the curb by a neighbor for heavy-trash pick-up. Thank You for the video! So far, I have only tested it to see that the blade spins. Purrs like a kitten, but per your video - I'll now think of it as a Lion's Roar! It was left along with a box of 8 to 10 blades (plus some that are 7.25"?), and some sort of "router blade". Mine has the large, thicker Front Table, but is currently missing only the Fence, Spacer, and the Rear Table, but it seems I can easily make those with some good wood using my table saw and/or chop saw. Now that I've seen this video - the 3 missing pieces could have easily been sitting in her trash bin (that I failed to peek into, right next to the saw) as I drooled over the free Radial Saw (not that I would have known what I "saw" had I peeked, prior to viewing this video). The lady that ditched it came out, was happy I could use it, took my number and said she would call me if she found "other parts for it" as she cleans her garage. When I got home with it (several doors down), I had already noticed the red cap covering the "accessory" auger, looked up what was available, and started to really wonder what might be left in her garage (due to the cost of the many accessories). I think the addition of the "planer" accessory may be most useful for my needs (and may be sitting lonely, right there in the lady's garage - with who knows what else that should be reunited with my saw). I mainly watched this video to see all the parts I might be missing (so I could print pictures of those from the web for the lady) - and ended up learning so much more!

[@anthonysalinas7713]

Just picked mine up yesterday and glad I came across this video!

[@metronyc2855]

Thanks, Very informative. Will be on the lookout for one.

[@tylerwerrin41]

great instructional video - just got a used craftsman radial arm saw and this really helps, thank you!

[@vanman798]

Glad to hear it was worth your time. Have a great day.

[@shawnmiller5049]

Great video, I have never used one of these before, but I bought a used DeWalt 770 and watching videos to try and make sure I am careful with it. This video was by far the best for explanations and tutorials by far.

[@vanman798]

Glad you found it helpful! Enjoy your saw!!!

[@brookspilcher9312]

Even the most seasoned will learn something from this. well presented in a timely and easy to follow manner good job 👏 long live the long hair brotherhood

[@vanman798]

Thank you!

[@SheenaNeil]

This is exactly the info I was looking for! I recently got a radial arm saw for free and don’t know much about them. I am sure I will reference this video make times and I figure the saw out. All the safety tips are greatly appreciated!! Thank you so much.

[@vanman798]

Enjoy your saw!

[@oscarcanales7552]

Thank you Walter for sharing your wisdom and advice on this awesome power tool. This video has helped me understand the versatility and proper use of the saw. I really enjoyed it. God bless.

[@vanman798]

So glad to hear that it was helpful! Happy New Year

[@alejoms]

Thanks for the great video and explanation my friend, you solved all my table configuration doubts and I learned a lot from the video, will also be using it for future reference..!

[@andresraya6754]

My neighboor said i could have his. I watched this to see if i should get it because i use skillsaws all day and i know you gotta use it right to be safe. Im only 24 years old and i never been around one of these radial arm saws in operation. I can say i feel confident to use it, thanks to you explanation. Thank you for this video Mr Walter 👍

[@vanman798]

So glad I could help! Enjoy it!

[@CarlosTorres-bf7zj]

Extremely helpful I had so many questions about this tool from capabilities, handling, safety. Thank you for the great tutorial

[@vanman798]

Glad I could help!

[@7000fps]

Thank and God bless you , You have helped many to go forth in a safer manner.

[@vanman798]

You're welcome!

[@darcyhines1786]

I just watched your video. Thumbs up buddy. Im just setting my radio arm saw up now . They can be dangerous if not operated the right way. Im only using mine for cross cuts and ripping . It's an old Sears craftsman's saw. I love using. It.

[@vanman798]

Glad to hear you found it helpful! They are a great tool, but they do come with a learning curve in order to be used safely. Have a great day!

[@walteraddie7925]

All woodworking equipment can be hazardous and requires respect as well as control. Having over 30 years experience with wood there are always interesting things that can happen unexpectedly. I love working with wood and am restoring a RAS now to use for routing primarily.

[@Exsomos]

That Sir, was fantastic. Thank you.

[@vanman798]

Your welcome!

[@johnfrasca1832]

hello and good health to all... I have to say that if I owned a shop or professional shop I would make this a mandatory video to watch this video before allow them to start working with the machine. of course first and foremost because of the scenarios of the types of dangerous that can be caused by this machine ,of course this video is more of a tutorial of the versatility of this machine.what makes this video so intuitive and so informative is because it has the original bench configuration of four pieces of wood

[@RT-jv3su]

This is an awesome video and I plan on watching all your videos. With a few jigs the radial arm saw can be used in so many ways it’s kind blowing.

[@vanman798]

Yes, I agree it is amazing. The minimalist in me likes having one thing (tool) that can do many things. Have a great day, and thank you for the comment.

[@KevinCoop1]

Second best tool ever made! First place is a Shopsmith. I have both and there is not much in woodworking that you can not do. I suggest getting a 12” if you are out looking for a used one. Way better! BTW, got my first one 1984. Have never had a kickback! The key is the saw MUST be completely aligned before using it. Especially when ripping! And never use a dull blade.

[@ypaulbrown]

Walter, this is a well done video on the RAS...... I am a bit of an RAS fanatic, at the moment, I own 5, but two are under the weather and need help......all are DeWalt, from 1953 up to 1968 or so.... 16 inch to 9 inch....with 3 10 inch in-between..... I have owned 3 other RAS, a Montgomery Wards, a Craftsman and a 1960 DeWalt 925....which was the a beauty, but had motor issues..... I use mine for many jobs, cutting stainless steel, aluminum, wood, plastic, phenolic..... I also do a lot of grinding of machine tools to sharpen , and modify. using grinding wheels, diamond wheels, and sanding discs.....decorative metal finishes with woven abrasive [Scotchbrite Wheels] and truing steel and stainless steel miter cuts on angle, flat bar and square tubing after cutting on one of the new fangled high speed cold saws for metal that do a terrible job of smoothness...... One thing I found out, was by using a 7 1/2" blade from a 'Skilsaw' I can get fantastic cuts as far as smoothness, lack of stress on saw due to the thinner blade and much lower cost...... Best Wishes from an old Geezer in Florida who has been using the RAS since 1974.... Cheers, Paul

[@vanman798]

@@ypaulbrown thanks, I'll have to try the smaller blade.

[@ww321]

Hey thanks for the video. I learned a lot. I'll have to set up my tabletop like yours. I have a really old DeWalt I picked up about 20 years ago.

[@grannydeen1586]

Mine looks exactly like yours but I bought it new in 1977 and I still have it in service. It has the original table and guard even though a few years ago I received the new table and guard from Craftsman as a result of their recall. It's a pretty good saw for the money. I worked in a shop that had a large Rockwell radial arm saw. That was a great saw but at the same time, intimidating.

[@vanman798]

Mine is a 1982 model, which I bought brand new in 2016. It was an amazing find, still in the original unopened box!

[@kerryschleining7863]

They best video I've seen on how to use this kind of tool

[@vanman798]

@@kerryschleining7863 I appreciate the compliment.

[@woodworksbygrampies1284]

Hola! 🖐This is the very first of your videos I have watched and thought it was great! My wife found a Craftsman 10" RAS for me at a Yard Sale and we purchased it. because I have not felt "ready" to use it yet and always thought "I need to study up on it" first. Well this video is perfect, thank you for sharing your knowledge and insight. Take care and have a good one, Adios!👊

[@vanman798]

Thanks,and enjoy using your saw safely!

[@richardbrobeck2384]

I have used this type saw since I was a kid !

[@joshuawiley7200]

I'd love to see your explanation of the Drill chuck, Routing, Moulding operations. some of the more obscure functions of this machine.

[@tomnorman5461]

Yea, me to. I've never seen the accessories (those that attach to the "power shaft") demonstrated or even listed for sale anywhere...I wonder why?

[@vanman798]

Making that video is on my "to do" list. In the mean time see kzbin.info/www/bejne/jGe4oGSKhJuLr6cfeature=shared&t=137

[@johnnylightning1491]

All power tools are dangerous, not just radial arm saws. I don't think that fear is maybe the right word, I choose to say respect. In any case if you are careless around any power tool it can hurt you badly, so everyone please be very, very careful around any power tool. Keep the good stuff coming.

[@johnnation713]

I like this video able these tools, I have this exact same radial arm saw and it’s wonderful!! I don’t use it for everything but I do use it. It’s nice to see some safety tips on this model!😊👍

[@Bulldog1653]

By pure luck, I was able to get a Craftsman Radial Arm Saw for FREE. It works perfectly fine and this video is EXTREMLY helpful. Luckily, the recall kit (blade guard & RAS table) was included. I absolutely love the versatility and it's a lot of fun to work with.

[@vanman798]

Glad it helped!

[@jamesfulghum6189]

I wouldn’t consider my shop complete without my radial arm in place and operational.

[@mardakworkshop4450]

thanks for this great video I just buy one and I’m looking for information about safety thank you again

[@vanman798]

Your welcome. Enjoy your new saw and stay safe!

[@bobd5119]

Only a few days ago, I attached a laser guide to my RAS. It's made by Oshlun. It attaches to the arbor, and lights up when RPM exceeds 500.

[@ZappninLLP]

Thank you very much! Very helpful use and safety tips.

[@timalbertson4004]

I just got one of these Sears and Robuck Jems... excellent video. Thank you

[@vanman798]

Enjoy your saw. They are a great tool. Glad to hear you liked the video.

[@jeanpomerleau8416]

I have 2 of those that were given to me and I really like having them, I made a 45 degree jig so that I can leave the saw square to cut a 45 because it can be tough to get square after you move it to an angle.

[@bigfoottoo2841]

Very good, thank you. I just bought a saw like the one used in this video.

[@williamwirtz7332]

Hello Walter, I enjoyed this video. It was perfect. I was looking for a video on how to adjust my radio arm saw but ran into this video and I'm glad I did. I bought this all for $10. It is tight and runs well. It is not set at 90° perfectly. I could put the fence on an angle and get square cuts. I think I can find to knit with adjustments. But I don't know how. Again I am glad I watched this video it was much more important. Thank you. Frank

[@vanman798]

If you do a google search you will find a PDF version of the saws' manual which you can download. The manual outlines how to align the blade and arm. Hope this helps.

[@jason4261]

In Conclusion.... ANY power tool can cause damage. Table saws can easily break bones and take off fingers. RESPECT the tool always, never think "I've been doing this for xx years. I'm ok" That's when you get lulled into the "I know more" and it's then that the rools says you don't. This tool is no different. I have one, never used "yet" but plan on using. Inherited and just haven't set it up appropriately. But I see benefits to it. For 70 years, must have been good enough. Thanks for video!

[@terrydanks]

Great video! Been using a Craftsman RAS since buying it new in early 1976. Sadly, it was not as high-end as the one you are using. Wish it was. But it still works just fine. What I don't understand is all the "RASs are dangerous for ripping" stuff the internet is so loaded up with. I understood from day one which side to feed from for in-rip vs out-rip. Since acquiring a miter saw, truth be told, I use the RAS pretty much for ripping exclusively. I'm used to it. Table Saws, otoh, I am NOT used to and THEY seem more dangerous to me than a RAS.

[@vanman798]

I agree, it comes down to what you learn to use. I was careful in this video to not compare the RAS to a table saw as I think that is not needed, but sure is the all the hype! Radial saws, to me, are amazing tools.

[@markhubanks3715]

Great explanation, Thank You !

[@vanman798]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@tccdlinux1471]

very good. I learned a lot

[@carlosdeleon7475]

Great video! My dad and grandpa had one and I got one now. I sure don't use mine like they used theirs but it's always available.

[@chriscrystalhood6260]

Very in depth video, thank you for sharing.

[@FantomWireBrian]

Your blade guard is missing . I've used one without it , but OSHA stopped down and gave me a nice reminder. He also asked about the rip bar . I didn't know I had one but I told him I didn't like them and he agreed. I have a commercial Delta 12 " and after running the cheap 10" saws I'll never go back. Old Dewalts,Deltas and old Sears are good saws in 12" and some 10" . If I have a tough cut I can put on a 10" blade to increase power .

[@vanman798]

What makes you think the blade guard is missing? It's clearly there. Here is a view I made it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fnPPfKympMiYmdk

[@codelicious6590]

It is still the safest to begin your crosscuts with the saw fully extended and push into the cut whenever possible. The rotational direction gets most novices into trouble in the rip cut configuration, one must always feed the work into the blade from the CORRECT direction when rip-cutting! Id be super interested to see some of the more uncommon operations these old Craftsman radial arm saws can do- especially the ones using that auxilliary shaft! I have an old compact Dewalt/B&D 8" so it doesnt have many of the extra features. It sure came in handy before i was able to obtain a tablesaw though!

[@codelicious6590]

@@vanman798 Yeah I never said to do that man.

[@vanman798]

It's definitely not recommend to do what you suggest. The blade should always be behind the fence before a crosscut is started, and then pulled toward you on a RAS. Compound miter saws, I believe, work the way you are suggesting.

[@danielcedar2699]

Excellent instruction. Thank you.

[@vanman798]

You are welcome.

[@madpainter69]

Nice saw , and a great video. thx for sharing..

[@vanman798]

My pleasure.

[@PunkR0ckz09]

Would it be possible for you to make drawings of the arm for the anti-kickback pawls/spreader (semi circular thing that holds them), the anti-kickback pawls and the "spreader" for me? I have the same saw and mine didn't came with any, and I can't get them anywhere for a decent price, I'd make them myself... By the way, very nice and informative video. Would've loved to see you make a "setup" video to make it dead accurate at 90 degrees to the table/fence... would've completed the video nicely!

[@kristevonne]

Thank-you! I bought mine at a tag sale and didn't get instructions. I didn't even know it ripped boards. But you scared me enough where I won't be ripping any on it.

[@qapla]

Good review of the capabilities and safety concerns of this saw. I have one from 1971. They are very versatile and effective if you use the proper cation any power tool should be accorded. A couple things I have found helps the radial arm saw are, if possible, running on 220/240 v works much better than 110/120 v. Also, a set of blade stabilizers increases ease of use and accuracy. My understanding of the name "radial arm" is that it comes from the saw operating "radial" as opposed to "reciprocating" and is suspended on an arm - but I guess the pivoting aspect may also have played some part in the name.

[@vanman798]

Qapla !, you bring up an interesting point, when you state "my understanding of the name 'radial arm' is that it comes from the saw operating 'radial' as opposed to 'reciprocating' and is suspended on an arm", as opposed to my statement that it gets its name 'radial arm' since the "arm moves along the radius of a circle". I looked up the definition of "radial", which is defined as "1. relating to, placed like, or moving along a radius", or "2. of or arranged like rays or the radii of a circle; diverging in lines from a common center." My definition falls under "moving along a radius." To be very specific it really is the motor and blade which move along the radius, whereas technically the arm is the radius. Your understanding of the name seems to meet the second definition of "arranged" like rays. Thank you for pointing that out - I think there is some common ground there. For my interest (and hopefully others that read this), here are two definitions of reciprocating, "1. (of a part of a machine) moving backward and forward in a straight line." or 2. "a type of machine-powered saw in which the cutting action is achieved through a push-and-pull motion of the blade."

[@bobd5119]

Yep. Mine runs on "200" volts (220/230/240 whatever). It seems happy.

[@denvernow7294]

I wanted one of these during the first half of the video. The second half of the video made me glad that I've never bought one.

[@vanman798]

I'm curious as to why? Please elaborate.

[@larrybarniville8213]

Thanks for your information on the radial saw and table.

[@user-iv2np3nk4k]

Well done! Thank you.

[@CP-mj8wd]

Great video I plan on using my 10 RAS more I set up my 9" RAS as a disk sander. I need to buy a more robust power strip so I can use my vacuum and RAS saw without it kicking off the strip. Or move it it front of an outlet.

[@tkskagen]

Sadly, I witnessed a Severe "Kickback" in Middle School (back in 1988), when the Operator feed the wood in too fast allowing the Workpeice to get grabbed by the blade and shot it back and "plunged itself" back with such force that it cut through their midsection 3" wide all the way through... The school and Instructor where not found at fault, and the student fully recovered after 2 months. Power Tools are NOT toys!

[@vanman798]

When I think back to my high school wood shop class, and the lack of safety training, I'm amazed more of what you witnessed didn't occur. Scary stuff, poor kid.

[@GilFavor101]

Awesome video, great tips. Thanks for sharing.