Caftsman Table Saw Fence 24/24 any good?

Aug 29, 2006 5 Replies

Allow me to start by saying that I know there are better brands... I can attest to that by the fact that I have a very nice 10" Delta tablesaw sitting in my shop right now... Allow me to also say that it's leaving in a month or so and returning to its owner. (as to why it's on loan is a long story not associated with this question) which returns me to my own saw.



On to my question ---->> my normal saw is an older Sears 10" contractor table saw. It's a solid saw and cuts oak, ash, walnut with no problem. However.... the fence is absolutely atrocious to use. I have to do the measure front and back to make sure it's square or close. I've been looking at the aligh-a-rip 24/24 as an upgrade and wonder if someone who has one can give me some info on it.



Does it lock close to square? Do you still have to measure front/back to make sure it's close to square? Does it move easily on the rails? Is it worth it to do that or stick with the standard fence?



I understand there are Beismeyer, Shop Fox, Excalibur, and a multitude of other fences that are light years ahead of the 24/24 out there....right now my budget isn't quite up for those. Not whinning it's just the way it is right now.



Any info is greatly appreciated.... Thanks!!!



I suggest a Beis clone. Jet makes a Beis clone fence that you can add to your Craftsman saw.

I have the rails and fence from a Craftsman 22114 I could let go of...where are you located? Maybe we could work out a swap if you are interested?

Thom

I had one of those on my old Sears saw--now long gone, replaced by a Unisaur, but that's another story. To answer your questions, yes, no, yes, yes (do anything you can to get rid of the standard fence).

It's a fine piece of equipment. It was probably the best amendment I made to the Sears saw. It made the saw a pleasure to use.

I have a page on my website that deals with Craftsman saw upgrades. You may find it helpful.

wonder if someone who has one can give me some info on it.

I have had one for 2 years and am very satisfied with it. It moves very easily and always locks dead on square. I moved the rails out to give me

30" on the right; am not sure why anyone would want 24/24.

When I clamp my router fence to it to use my TS router table, I have to clamp the end down so it doesn't move; but it was never designed to do this job, so that is hardly a criticism.

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