When it comes to working with a table saw, safety should always be the top priority. And one of the most important safety accessories you can use is a feather board. A weatherboard is a simple yet effective device that helps to hold your workpiece securely against the fence and table, preventing kickback and keeping your hands away from the blade. In this article, we'll be discussing the best feather board for table saws and what to look for when choosing one.
What is a feather board?
Before we get into the specifics of feather boards for table saws, let's take a closer look at what a feather board is and how it works. A weatherboard is a device that attaches to the table saw's fence and applies pressure to the workpiece, holding it securely against the fence and table. This prevents the workpiece from shifting or rotating during the cut, which can cause kickback or other dangerous situations.
Featherboards are typically the best featherboard for table saw made from plastic, wood, or metal and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some feather boards have "feathers" that are flexible and can be adjusted to apply more or less pressure to the workpiece. Other feather boards have fixed feathers that are designed to provide a consistent amount of pressure.
Types of Featherboards
There are two main types of feather boards: single feather board and dual feather board.
Single feather boards are the most common type and feature a single row of "feathers" that apply pressure to the workpiece. These feather boards are best used for straight cuts or when you're cutting a workpiece that is relatively narrow.
Dual feather boards, on the other hand, have two rows of feathers that apply pressure from both sides of the workpiece. This provides greater stability and control, making them ideal for cutting wider or thicker workpieces.
Features to Look for in a Featherboard
When choosing a feather board for your table saw, there are several features to consider. Here are some of the most important:
Material:
Featherboards can be made from plastic, wood, or metal. Plastic feather boards are the most common and are often the most affordable. However, they may not be as durable as wood or metal feather boards. Wood feather boards are sturdy and can provide a better grip on the workpiece, but they may be more expensive. Metal weatherboards are the most durable and can provide the strongest grip on the workpiece, but they are also the most expensive.
Adjustability:
Some feather boards have adjustable feathers that can be moved up or down to apply more or less pressure to the workpiece. This can be useful when cutting different types of wood or when working with a variety of thicknesses.
Compatibility:
Not all feather boards are compatible with all table saws. Be sure to choose a feather board that is compatible with your saw's fence and table.
Feather size:
The size of the feathers can also be important. Feathers that are too small may not provide enough pressure, while feathers that are too large may be too rigid and difficult to adjust.
Ease of installation:
Look for a feather board that is easy to install and remove. Some feather boards require tools or clamps to attach to the fence, while others have a simple locking mechanism.
Top feather boards for table saws
With all these factors in mind, here are some of the best feather boards for table saws on the market today. Kreg PRS3020 True-FLEX Featherboard The Kreg PRS3020 True-FLEX Featherboard is a top-quality feather board that features adjustable feathers that can be moved up or down to apply more or less pressure to the workpiece. The feathers are made from a durable and flexible polymer material that provides
an excellent grip on the workpiece. The feather board is also compatible with a wide range of table saws and is easy to install and remove. One potential downside is that it is a bit more expensive than some other feather boards on the market, but the high quality and adjustability make it worth the investment.
Milescraft 1406 FeatherBoard
The Milescraft 1406 FeatherBoard is another excellent option that offers great value for the price. It features a dual row of adjustable feathers that provide excellent stability and control when cutting wider or thicker workpieces. The feathers are made from a durable plastic material and are easy to adjust. The feather board also includes a unique split rail design that allows it to be used on both sides of the blade. This makes it a versatile and convenient option for any table saw user.
POWERTEC 71009 Safety Push Block and Stick Package
The POWERTEC 71009 Safety Push Block and Stick Package is a comprehensive safety package that includes both a feather board and a push block/stick. The feather board features dual adjustable feathers that provide excellent stability and control, while the push block and stick help to keep your hands safely away from the blade during the cut. The package is also affordably priced and compatible with most table saws.
Magswitch Universal Featherboard
The Magswitch Universal Featherboard is a unique feather board that features a switchable magnet that allows you to quickly and easily attach and detach it from your saw's fence. This makes it a convenient option for users who need to frequently switch between different saw setups or workpieces. The feather board also features adjustable feathers and a durable plastic construction that provides a strong grip on the workpiece.
JessEm Tool Company 4015 Feather Board Double
The JessEm Tool Company 4015 Feather Board Double is a high-end feather board that features dual rows of fixed feathers that provide a consistent and reliable grip on the workpiece. The feathers are made from a durable and rigid plastic material that helps to prevent kickback and ensure a safe and accurate cut. The feather board is also easy to install and remove, making it a convenient option for users who need to switch between different saw setups.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a weatherboard is an essential safety accessory for any table saw user. When choosing a feather board, be sure to consider the material, adjustability, compatibility, feather size, and ease of installation. The Kreg PRS3020 True-FLEX Featherboard, Milescraft 1406 FeatherBoard, POWERTEC 71009 Safety Push Block and Stick Package, Magswitch Universal Featherboard, and JessEm Tool Company 4015 Feather Board Double are all excellent options that provide reliable performance and safety. Choose the one that best fits your needs and budget, and remember to always prioritize safety when working with your table saw.
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