Congratulations! If you’re reading this guide you’ve either just picked up your first table saw, or you’re thinking about purchasing a new one.
Your fingers itch in anticipation as you think about all the projects you have planned. You’ve spent your time researching the correct raw materials, and you’ve opened up your wallet to purchase them. You’ve got your plans all laid out, and you’ve cleared adequate space for your needs. The scent of freshly cut wood is already filling your nostrils. You’re feeling confident and ready to go, right? Well in truth, you’re almost there.
An essential question which you need to ask yourself is this; is my table fence up to par? If your answer is anything but a confident “Hell yes”, then this comprehensive buying guide will help you decide on the best table fence for you. So before you part with your hard earned cash, have a browse though our table saw fence reviews and see which is right for you !
We’ll highlight some of the features which are available, and give some handy tips along the way. By the end of the article, you will be well-armed with the knowledge to make the correct choice for your needs. So let’s begin.
Best Table Saw Fence Reviews 2022
Purchasing the best table saw fence can be a challenge because there are so many models on the market and you will find it difficult to choose one. A poor quality table saw can be a cause of frustration. The objective of this post is to help you find a high quality table saw fence. Here are some of the best brands available.
Shop Fox W1410 Fence with Standard Rails
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The Shop Fox W1410 Fence with Standard Rails is one of the original table saw fences and built to fit saws with a 27 inch table.
It has been designed to secure simultaneously at both ends to achieve the utmost in accuracy and rigidity. The Shop Fox W1410 relies on a unique ball bearing design for the guides that make it super easy to move the fence back and forth with a single finger.
This is one of the best table saw fence systems you will find on the market. This tool is a good option for you if you need to make cuts repeatedly. A great advantage of this fence is that it secures both ends simultaneously. In order to achieve accuracy, rigidity is of utmost importance. This fence is designed to give you rigidity. You can also move it very easily because it has ball bearing guides.
It can be used with almost all saw brands available. It has an ideal length: 27 inches. Shop Fox W1410 has a roller tracking system that helps you achieve accuracy. You will not have to use the lock system because the roller tracking system will ensure the proper alignment of the fence and blade.
Made of a special kind of aluminum, it has a solid construction. Even inexperienced people can make fine adjustments of this tool. The installation of this fence system is very easy. When you buy this table saw fence system, you will get a manual containing detailed instructions.
Here are the key features of Shop Fox Table Saw fence:
- Can be used with any saw brand
- Can be moved with minimal effort
- Fine positioning knobs on both ends
- Easy to set up for both left and right handed people
Whether the beginner or pro contractor is left or right-handed this tool is very easy and comfortable to use with fine positioning knobs on both ends. Plus, the universal attachment method means this is one of the table saw accessories that has the ability to fit virtually all of the major brand table saws.
Features You’ll Value
A rock solid table fence, the Shop Fox W1410 is a reliable performer that comes with plenty of trusted features to make sure it is able to provide the dependable service in the long run. Let’s look at some of the most appealing features:
Versatile use
The Shop Fox W1410 Fence is a very versatile piece of kit and easily fits to most major name-brand cabinet and contractor table saws with a table that measures at least 27 inches from the front to back.
Roller tracking system
This table saw fence is able to provide the high level of accuracy thanks to its unique roller tracking system. The purpose of this system is to maintain the precise blade and fence alignment. This is even possible when the lock system isn’t engaged. This consistent control makes it very easy for the pro contractor to make the fine adjustments with absolutely no difficulties.
Solid construction
The Shop Fox W1410 table saw is built to be solid and reliable in a black and polished anodized aluminum that includes the micro precision adjustment knobs for greater control. The positioning knobs are located at both ends of the fence which makes it easier to use for the left or right-handed person.
Easy installation
The W1410 Fence is designed to be quick and easy to install and comes with detailed instruction to give step-by-step guidance through each stage of the setup.
Table saw accessories
This table fence is easily able to accept add-ons like the anti-kickback system offered by Board Buddies®, while other extras like the table saw jigs are helpful for cutting the more unique shapes and lines.
What Consumers Say
If you really want to know what other pro contractors are saying about the performance of the Shop Fox W1410 Fence, why not take a look at the following pros and cons that have been sourced from real user feedback.
Pros
- Works really well
- Easily improves the performance of the saw
- Highly accurate and makes cutting timber to the precise size such a simple process
- Once locked down it stays in position
- Good instructions that are easy to follow
- Designed to fit a wide range of saw tables
- Solid construction in aluminum
- Fence glides with ease and instantly locks down without any effort
- Built to accept other table saw accessories
- A nice roller tracker system to help maintain the accuracy of the cut
- Easy to use for the left or right-handed carpenter
Cons
- May be difficult to install on some of the older table saws
- Pre-packaged drill bit and tap are low-quality, and will need to be replaced
A very satisfying table saw fence; the Shop Fox W1410 is designed with plenty of useful features to create a perfect tool that significantly increases the accuracy while using the cutting machinery. With its solid construction, roller tracking system and easy installation, this table saw fence is a high-quality piece of equipment that is perfect in a wide range of applications for the pro contractor or dedicated hobbyist.
This table saw is solidly built-in steel and aluminium with no plastic which means it should be able to provide long-term durability and strength. Also, there is nothing fancy about the rails which come in angle iron, but they are still sturdy enough.
The Shop Fox W1410 Fence with Standard Rails has a highly respectable 4.7 out of 5 on the Amazon marketplace to provide a solid performer that has the ability to guarantee accuracy and consistent cuts.
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DELTA 36-T30 T2 30-Inch Fence and Rail System
[amazon box=”B000H0R1S2″]
This table saw fence system stands out due to the strong construction. It works just fine when under pressure. Because of containing predrilled holes, it can be used with many types of saw. This 60 inches long fence is easy to install. You can easily lift it because it is very light—only 30 pounds. Its durability is quiet satisfactory. The cross section measures 3 square inches. The locking mechanism is designed in such a way that it allows you accuracy for the cuts. It contains a short guide with a scale and clamping mechanism.
With a mounting hardware, this versatile saw fence system will not disappoint you because it allows micro adjustments. If you are looking for a good fence system, DELTA 36-T30 T2 30-Inch Fence and Rail System can be a great option.
Key features:
- Precision will not be compromised because it has a still tube fence that glides
- Alignment can be maintained throughout the process
- Three-point locking system
- An added rear clamp system holds down the clamp
- Predrilled holes for easy mounting
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36″ Uni-t-fence Fence by Peachtree Woodworking – PW1112
This is a popular and highly rated table saw fence. One of the reasons of its high popularity is its durability. Made of aluminum, this fence is not only durable but also light. Therefore, you can carry it very easily. This 36-inches long fence can be used for moderate tasks. If you need a longer one, similar models of longer lengths are available.
You can attach it to different kinds of saws due to its square design. The system also has consistent, strong impact. The fence has a high resistance to abrasion, which makes it durable. It is not easy to scratch the product. This tool is designed for professional use. It can be used with many types of saws and cutting tools. You don’t need to worry about any friction with the table saw because it has a self-lubricating mechanism. In order to make the best use of this product, you need to purchase the Delta Uni-Fence.
Key features of Uni T fence:
- Made of high quality aluminum
- Can be used on most woodworking tools
- Mounting is easy
- Durable
- Resistant to abrasion
Vega U26 Table Saw Fence System: 36-Inch Fence Bar, 26-Inch to Right
[amazon box=”B00002261Y”]
The most significant feature of this table saw fence is its solid construction. With this tool, you will be able to make rip cuts very efficiently. This high-quality, 36 inch-long system ensures accuracy. More robust than other fences, this fence is rated highly.
The measuring scale of this system is precise. It is easy to make adjustments and maintain alignment. It is also designed to make mounting easy. You will find it super easy to set up the system because the mounting holes are eight to nine inches. You will be provided with a guide that will show you how to use it with a table saw.
Adjustments can be done on both vertical and horizontal planes. The slotted front brackets allow this convenience. The fence rails can be leveled using the jacking plates. No drilling needed. You can set up the fence within 15 minutes.
Here are the key features of Vega U26 Table Saw Fence System:
- Can be used with many types of saws and woodworking tools
- 36 inch-long fence system
- Durable and easy to assemble
- No drilling needed
- Weighs only 34 pounds
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5. Vega PRO 40 Table Saw Fence System
This table saw fence system is suitable for all types of users. The fence is fine and sturdy. You can use Vega Pro 40 with many types of saw brands. You don’t need to drill holes because this saw fence system has bolt holes. The existing holes can be used with a variety of holes available in the market.
The fence mounting system is fully adjustable. It also allows easy micro adjustments. This is the highest rated fence system of the Vega brand and it also has the highest number of customer reviews.
Below are the key features of Vega Pro 40 Table Saw Fence System.
- Adaptable and versatile
- Finger-touch movement is allowed
- Suitable for both the left-handed and the right-handed users
- A very useful tool for cabinet and drawer manufacturers
- Does not take a large space
- Fits a variety of tabletops
You can read more about best pole saw brands.
Vega PRO 50 Table Saw Fence System
[amazon box=”B000022622″]
The Vega PRO 40 Table Saw Fence System with 42-inch fence bar (40-inch to the right) has the potential to create a precision cutting machine for the pro contractor or home workshop.
For complete ease of use, the Vega PRO 40 is designed to fit many existing table saws without needing to make any adjustments. For instance, it uses the existing bolt holes on 10 inch saws from Sears, Powermatic Model 66, contractor saws and Delta unisaws.
It is built to be fully adjustable and operates using a unique fence mounting system to ensure the precise cuts are achieved time after time. Installing table saw accessories like this are quite straightforward, and it is possible to complete the installation in as little as 15 minutes (certain table saw brands may take longer).
Features You’ll Value
Easy fit and adjustment, the versatility of the Vega PRO 40 Table Saw Fence System makes a practical piece of equipment for many, and its wide-ranging features make it a pleasure to use. Let’s look at some of the most appealing features related to this table saw fence:
Solid construction
The Vega PRO 40 Table Saw Fence is built with the serious woodworker in mind and is highly durable and rugged, yet still refined enough to provide the perfect cuts. It has the ability to help with 10 to 12 inch saws that can be used for commercial operations or heavier materials. The Vega PRO 40 has a 40 inch rip capacity to the right and 10 inch to the left.
Quick setup
The series of Vega table saw fence systems are among the easiest to install in the industry. For quick and easy setup, each of the fences is built to use the table saws existing bolt holes. This helps to avoid any difficulty in installation and makes sure there is no need to drill new holes to get prepared. Plus, the Vega PRO 40 includes a fence mounting system which means very little effort is needed to achieve the perfect accuracy.
Micro adjustment capability
The true micro adjustment feature is certain to appeal to those in demand of 100% accuracy in their cuts. It is possible to easily move the fence via a threaded rod in either direction to achieve the very precise cuts and measurements.
Table saw accessories
By combing the table saw with the right accessories it is possible to build a setup that is safer to use, more productive, and more convenient. Plus, the table saw jigs are perfect for those wishing to proceed with the most difficult cuts and need extra guidance and assistance.
If you really want to know what others are saying about the performance of the Vega PRO 40 Table Saw Fence System, why not take a look at the many pros and cons that have been sourced from real customer feedback:
Pros
- Easy to put together and install
- Quick to lock down for complete accuracy, and significantly improves on the performance of using a saw
- Great scale and easy to use rip width
- Solid and sturdy build
- Install is relatively fast (takes about 25-35 minutes)
- The micro adjust is a nice feature
- Useful locking mechanisms
- Built using high-quality materials
- Uses extra features like table saw jigs
- Pre-drilled for instant installation
- Fence glides super smooth; it goes in either direction and moves with just the push of a finger
Cons
- The finish on this table saw fence isn’t the best
- Instructions can be difficult to follow
An excellent fence for plenty of applications, the Vega PRO 40 is designed to transfer the regular table saw into a high-quality and accurate cutting machine. With its solid construction, smooth glide, and multiple lock mechanisms, this table saw fence is perfect for those wishing to upgrade from a basic fence that came pre-installed on a saw or just need a saw accessory able to give the greater accuracy.
It has been built with the highest quality materials to make sure it has the ability to provide the pro contractor or home workshop long-term performance and accuracy.
The Vega PRO 40 Table Saw Fence System has a solid 4.5 out of 5 rating on the Amazon marketplace to provide a well made and fairly easy setup fence that come at a nice price.
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Shop Fox W1720 Aluma-Classic Fence with Long Rails
[amazon box=”B00012XE28″]
The Shop Fox W1720 Aluma-Classic Fence with Long Rails is built with solid steel and aluminum construction to create a table saw fence that is precise and durable.
It comes with wide-spaced adjustment points for greater ease in achieving the very accurate measurements. Plus the torsion box design and cam-lever front locking mechanism makes it possible for this Shop Fox fence to easily mount to virtually any full-size table saw without the need to rely on an extra locking mechanism.
For quick positioning, the Shop Fox W1720 has an adjustable magnified center, a self-adhesive measuring tape, and a choice of standard or long rails. The long 79 inch rails on the Aluma-Classic Fence have the potential to cut up to 50 inches.
Features You’ll Value
Great fence and rail system, the Shop Fox W1720 is rich in features to provide one of the most versatile and efficient table saw accessories. Let’s look at some of the time-saving and efficient features of this table saw fence:
Solid construction
The right angle design with extruded steel and aluminum construction makes the Shop Fox W1720 Aluma-Classic Fence a very accurate and durable piece of equipment. Its wide-spaced adjustment points help to create the most precise setup. Plus, the combination of steel and aluminum helps to reduce its weight for greater ease in handling.
Magnified cursor
The adjustable magnified cursor and self-adhesive measuring tape make it really easy to achieve the accurate measurement with complete precision.
Versatile use
The Shop Fox W1720 has a torsion box and cam-lever front locking mechanism that makes it possible to mount this tool to virtually any table saw with no need to use an extra locking system. It has an extruding rail up to 79 inch that has the potential to provide wide panel cutting on a 50 inch scale.
Self adhesive scale
The long-length rails include a self-stick measuring tape in a high-visibility color to make it very easy to read, while the graduations and numbers are in both metric and SAE scales.
Heavy-duty locking lever
The Shop Fox W1720 has a heavy duty locking lever to make sure there is no movement once the tool is set and in position. A reliable cam lever locks the fence in the desired position, while the torsion box design has the ability to minimize unwanted deflection when the wood is being glided.
If you really want to get a first-hand idea of what others are saying about the Shop Fox W1720 Aluma-Classic Fence with Long Rails, why not take a look at the following pros and cons that have been sourced from real customer feedback:
Pros
- Easy to install with no drilling
- Quick and easy to adjust using a caliper to square it
- Functions extremely well
- Simple to lock with a single cam action lever
- Magnified cursor lens
- Solid, yet light construction in steel and aluminum
- Great dual measurements on the tape (1/16-inch and 1/32-inch increments)
- Fence slides smooth on the table
- Nice adjustable fence wear pads
- Solid and high quality construction
- Makes cuts up to 50 inch super convenient
Cons
- May be difficult to adjust correctly for the complete beginner
Great for beginners or pros, the Shop Fox W1720 Aluma-Classic Fence is a modern woodworking tool that every high-quality wood shop needs. With its strong aluminum and steel construction this fence has the potential to provide the precise cuts for a life-time of service. Even though this fence is quite light (21.2 pounds), it is still very robust and a great choice for the home workshop or pro contractors. Its torsion box design and cam-lever front locking mechanism make this table saw fence highly adaptable with the ability to mount to virtually any table saw, and there is no need to rely on an extra locking mechanism. By including extras like table saw jigs it is possible to achieve the most versatile and wide-ranging cuts that are practical for all-types of woodworking applications.
The Shop Fox W1720 has a respectable 4.0 out of 5 rating on the Amazon marketplace to provide an excellent quality table saw fence with the ability to easily mount an existing table saw.
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Best Table Saw Fence – Buyer Guide
What is a Table Saw Fence?
Firstly, let’s start with the basics of what exactly a table saw fence is. A table fence, or rip fence as it’s otherwise known, is the single most fundamental piece of equipment contributing to your entire table saw setup.
You could have the best table saw money can buy, but if the rip fence is cheap or faulty you might as well not use it at all. In short, a rip fence is an apparatus that is attached to your table saw and aids in the cutting of materials for your project. It comprises a durable straight piece of metal incorporated with a clamping system on a set of rails that sits parallel to the table saw blade. A good table saw fence system can be the difference between okay craftsmanship and great work.
The clamping system allows for the easy adjustment of the fence along the rails for varying applications and your desired widths of cut. Its smooth central bar facilitates the low friction slide of the material you’re cutting toward the blade of your table saw. With all the components acting in concert, the rip fence allows the user to make long, extremely precise cuts along the complete length of the material being cut.
The rip fence is an aid to help you, the user, when you are cutting various materials for projects. A high-quality rip fence can be the difference between a finely crafted project and something that looks decidedly substandard.
So be very knowledgeable of what you need or have before you decide on one particular product.
What to look for when buying the table saw fence
Given the absolute essential function of a rip fence, selecting the correct product can become a daunting task for many new users. In most cases the stock table fence which comes with your new table saw may be of questionable quality, and in others non-existent.
A good table fence will help ensure high quality, repeatable cuts as well make sure that you are safe during its use. In this section, we’ll discuss some essential aspects to consider before purchasing your new table fence.
1.) Does the Price Matter?
When it comes to the Table fencing brands available, the price of the individual fence is proportional to its quality. The price is brand dependent, but expect to pay anything from about fifty dollars to several hundred dollars depending on brand, size, and application.
Remember that the table fence will have the single greatest effect on what you cut using your table saw. Thus, a quality rip fence is a good investment and worth paying a little extra for. With proper care a quality fence will outlast the table saw, allowing you to use it on a new saw.
2.) Is your Table Saw and Rip Fence a Match Made in Heaven (or Hell)?
Compatibility is another aspect which a prospective buyer such as yourself needs to be mindful of before you decide on a particular rip saw. If you have already purchased a table saw, be sure to be completely familiar with its specifications to ensure your future rip fence is the right fit. Not all fences are universally compatible with all table saws.
The top brands are generally built to be adaptable to any size or brand of table saw, whilst others which are completely brand specific. Double check the specs of both and you should be fine.
3.) Size Matters
Much like any other power tool, table saws come in a range of sizes for specific applications and needs. As such there are also various fences which may simply be either too large, or too small for your specific machine or the space you’ve allocated to work in. To ensure ease of use and quick startup, make sure that that your rip fence size is adequate. You don’t want to be trying to fit a large cabinet rip fence on a smaller sized, portable table saw.
In general, table saws are produced in two main options, a thirty or a fifty-inch rip capacity. As such most rip fence manufacturers create their products to mirror this.
There are many products which lie in-between, but the following should help you decide which is best for you.
i) Thirty Inch Rip Capacity
In the large majority of cases, a thirty-inch rip capacity is more than adequate for most casual users and is the most conservative in terms of space required to set up. Thirty-inch fences are also the cheaper option for those who are on a budget.
Generally, if a rip of greater than thirty inches is needed, one can attempt the ripping from the alternate side. However if space is not an issue you should definitely put some thought into the bigger fifty-inch fence.
ii)Fifty Inch Rip Capacity
If the size of your work area is generous, a fifty-inch rip fence is a must. In general, the price difference between a fifty inch and a thirty-inch rip fence is minimal, whilst the advantages of the larger rip fence are drastic. Simply put, a larger rip fence allows for a greater versatility of projects to be conducted.
Another plus to buying a larger fence is resale value. Fences of this type are generally in higher demand, so if you decide to upgrade you can subsidize the cost of your new equipment reasonably easily.
The take-home message here is that if you have space, a fifty-inch fence will give the greatest potential ability to rip anything you like. If space is limited, the smaller fence would be the wiser choice.
Remember though that for most projects the smaller fence is adequate for the typical user, so think about what you plan to be doing, and where you will be doing it, before buying your prospective rip fence.
4.) Desirable Features
Unfortunately, not all rip fences are manufactured equally. In this section, we’ll discuss some desirable features which will make working with your rip fence a dream.
Remember, some of these features may have different names from one brand to another, so read the specifications carefully to fully understand what you’re getting in your new rip fence.
i.) Automatic Positioning Control
Traditionally, setting up a table fence prior to use was a time-consuming, and often frustrating, practice involving the use of the good old tape measure. Automatic positioning completely removes the need for this lengthy preparation, via a series of well-designed mechanisms which will allow you to quickly attain the measurements desired within 0.002 inches.
Once done you can switch instantly to a previous measurement with 100% reproducibility. This is definitely a must have feature.
ii.) Micro-adjustment Ability
Depending on your end application this may not be the most important aspect for some, but for the perfectionist, micro-adjustment via well designed Increment controls will allow you to tailor your cuts with ultimate precision.
Remember he more precise the cuts, the more professional the final product will look.
iii.) Digital Displays
Some rip fences come with built-in digital displays, which make for the visualization of your measurements a dream. If you have sight problems, or just want a more enjoyable experience than a digital display is a good feature to look for.
iv.) High-Quality Materials
Make sure that your rip fence is constructed of high-quality goods. Many brands have made their products using lightweight, strong alloys which allow for better maneuverability with minimal flex or give. A well-made fence will serve you well and is ALWAYS worth paying a little more.
5.) Ease of use – Getting Ripped Quick
Traditionally, table saws were a mission to set up and calibrate. Newer models today are designed to remove as much preparation time as possible, allowing you the user to get working much quicker. To prevent any frustration, read the specifications of both your table saw, as well as your prospective table saw fence, to make sure they are compatible.
Here are some great features to keep in mind when buying a new fence to get you ripping quickly.
i.) Easy Installation – to get you up and running quickly, avoiding time consuming assembly.
ii.) Highly portable/lightweight – assists in easy of setup and transportation of machinery.
iii.) Easy calibration – Facilitates quality work in the shortest possible time.
iv.) Easy/quick adjustment on the table saw – makes working on the table saw easier, allowing you to work through a whole range of projects quickly.
6.) How to use your Rip Fence Safely (…because you love your fingers)
A large contributor to a safe ripping experience on your table saw is a quality table fence. A functioning, high-quality table fence ensures that the wood grain is aligned properly with the blade of the table saw, thus guaranteeing a clean cut.
If a user attempts to rip boards using table fence which is substandard, or faulty they run the risk of disaster.
If the grain is not aligned correctly to the table saw blade or the user cuts purposefully across the grain the risk of kickbacks increases significantly. Kickback is caused when the blade of the table saw catches on a harder region of wood on the board, such a tough grain or wood-knot, causing the board to be launched uncontrollably toward the user. This can lead to serious injury and in some cases, death.
Play it safe by using a correct rip fence which has been maintained properly, and making sure that it’s the correct fit for your table saw. Make sure that once you’ve aligned the fence and clamped it down, that it’s attached firmly and won’t shift during use.
A quality, well maintained fence in concert with good ripping practice will ensure an injury-free experience.
