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Whether you are a DIY enthusiast or a professional working at a construction site, wood or metal work requires straight and error-free cuts.
Now you may own a good table saw, but a table saw fence is required for perfect measurement and absolute precision. While there are several different types of fences available, they primarily differ in size and features.
Moving onto the details, a suitable product would ensure that your work process is safe and accurate. It will help you cut exactly in a straight line or at desired angles when needed. Having said that, choosing one from a number of choices can be difficult.
To make it easier, we have reviewed the top 9 tables saw fences available in the market today. The pros and cons have also been listed in detail for your benefit.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab a cup of coffee and read on!
Best Table Saw Fences
Here is the list of the 9 best table saw fences that you can use to accurately and precisely make cuts in a variety of materials.
One of our top suggestions is the DELTA 36-T30T3 Fence System which is known for its versatility. It works with a number of saws from different brands and comes with a hoard of features. Read on to know more about them in the next section.
One piece square tubular rail. Max Rip to Left of...
Mounting design attaches to Delta table saws. This includes...
Why Did We Like It?
Firstly, we will mention that it is a single-piece tubular rail that is square in shape and has a mounting design that attaches to saws easily. We were happy to find out that it has a maximum rip capacity of 13-1/2 inches to the left. The fence length, in general, is 37 inches with a 57-1/2-inch rail. This is big enough to handle most DIY projects.
Moving on, to ensure accuracy, it boasts a 3-point locking system that comes with twin hairline pointers. The pointers will ensure that your fence always stays parallel to the blade. It even maintains accuracy up to 1/64 of an inch.
Next, you will be getting a steel body that glides easily and ensures precise square cuts. As such, we were able to have an error-free experience while working. The fence will clamp onto the tube in front, and you can hook it to the rear rail. Once this is done, adjusting it should not be a problem.
What Could've Been Better?
The only drawback we noticed was that the clamp would sometimes slip loose. Now, on investigating, we found that the paint on the rails was making it slippery. We then scrubbed it slightly with sandpaper, and that did the trick. This is a great way to handle the situation in case you face something similar.
Pros
3-point locking system
Twin hairline pointers for better accuracy
Easy-gliding body to handle all cuts
Works with precision
Cons
Clamp slips loose at times
Dimensions: 37" x 6" x 2.5" | Weight: 38lbs | Material: Steel | Fit: Attaches to Delta Table Saws Including Contractor Saws, Hybrid Saws, & Other Unisaw Models
Up next is an option for those who are looking for a replacement to use with a Dewalt table saw. The Dewalt DW745 replacement fence works well with table saws up to 10 inches and will offer steady support. You will love this compact and lightweight option, and it will help you measure with precision.
If you need to carry your tools to the job site every day, this fence will serve the purpose well. This is because of its lightweight body, weighing only 1.78 pounds. Hence, transporting it will never be an issue.
Coming to the material used to make the body, this one is made of aluminum, and that gives it a lot of strength. The aluminum parts stay in place even after rough use, and that adds to the benefits.
Next, this is a replacement piece, and it is very easy to install. Dewalt is known for its great machinery and parts, and this meets the quality standards.
Also, the product can be used to work with large boards, and it can handle them easily. This makes it perfect for professional use on construction sites.
What Could've Been Better?
The only issue is that there are plastic parts that are not very long-lasting. They break down easily if you apply too much pressure, and hence you need to be careful about this. Other than this, there were no issues that we faced with this device.
Pros
Fits table saws of 10 inches
Lightweight
Easy to attach
Can be used as a replacement
Cons
Plastic parts are not sturdy
Dimensions: N/A | Weight: 1.78lbs | Material: Metal | Fit: Fits Various BLACK AND DECKER Models
If you were looking for an ultra-convenient tool that would give you the exact amount of support required, this would work well. The POWERTEC BS900RF Rip Fence is an amazing option that is known for its efficient performance and easy adjustment. This makes working easy and quick.
Sturdy Extruded aluminum construction means it's solid and...
Provides for straight parallel cuts.
Why Did We Like It?
This tool is very rugged, and you can depend on it for all the support that you need. It comes with clamps that can fit on an 11-13/16-inch table, and it does not move out of place.
Moving on to the construction, this is made to be very durable and is constructed of industry-grade aluminum. The build is really sturdy and rugged and will ensure flawless performance.
Plus, the tool has a handy cam lever that will let you adjust the placement lock as you want. Once it is in place, you can secure it, and that will provide more rigidity. You will be able to get error-free cuts at all times, thanks to this.
Another great benefit is that it arrives completely assembled, and you will not require any tools for installation. Just take it out of the box and attach it to your work table.
What Could've Been Better?
So, we had a great experience with this product, but if you are a novice, you might face issues initially. Instructions are not given, and you might have to watch YouTube tutorials to understand how to use them. Otherwise, you can call up customer care and talk to them about it.
Pros
Made of aluminum
Offers precise and straight cuts
Does not need to be assembled
Effective cam lever action
Cons
Does not come with instructions
Dimensions: 12.2" x 4.2" x 2.1" | Weight: 0.64lbs | Material: Aluminum | Fit: Designed to Work w/ the Powertec Bs900 & Similar Model Band Saws w/ 300mm or 11-13/16” Tables
If you were looking for a versatile option that will work with most table saws, the Vega U26 Table Saw Fence System is an excellent option. This is heavy and sturdy and works well for professional use on construction sites and large workshops. We were delighted by the efficient performance and the reasonable price for it.
36-Inch fence bar (26 inches to right, 8 inches to left of...
Why Did We Like It?
The body is made entirely of rock-solid steel, and you will be happy to find that it is pretty sturdy. We have been using it for a few months now, and there have been no damages due to the work.
Also, this includes a 36-inch bar that includes 8 inches to the left and 26 inches to the right of any blade. This will support micro-adjustment, and you can make error-free cuts at all times.
Next, weighing 34 pounds, this product is on the heavier side and will work for thick boards. It is made to handle tough cuts and will do the job quickly.
Not only that, but it is also easy to install. You will need to put the parts together, but the entire process will take you around 15-20 minutes. This is a 1-time process and will not pose any problems.
What Could've Been Better?
We were disappointed with the kind of packaging that we found. There were some parts that were thrown into the cardboard box without wrapping them first. Hence, there were scratches and small dents on some parts, which could be easily prevented. We hope that the brand looks into this.
Pros
Fence bar measures 36 inches
Easy to adjust and move
Versatile and works with various saws
Easy installation process
Cons
>Not packaged well
Dimensions: 54" x 8" x 4" | Weight: 34lbs | Material: Steel | Fit: Delta Unisaws & Contractor's Saws, Powermatic Model 66, & Most Sears 10" Saws
Now that we are nearing the middle of this list, it is time to introduce the Shop Fox W1716 Aluma-Classic Fence. This is a very durable option, and you can trust it completely. Plus, this will fit most of your table saws and will guide you better with a magnified cursor lens.
Standard 57-inch rails provide 30-inch maximum rip to the...
Fits most table saws easily
Why Did We Like It?
First of all, this is a very sturdy device that is known for its steel and aluminum construction. It sports a right-angle design and is known to be reliable.
Moreover, we found the setting-up process to be very easy, and you will be getting a cam-lever front locking system. This, along with a torsion box, makes it versatile and you can fit it on almost all kinds of saws. No rear locking mechanism is needed, and the boards will be held straight while working.
Next, one of its major features is the magnified cursor and the self-adhesive measuring tape. These help in placing the fence in the correct place with high precision. You will not be making any wrong cuts because of this. Also, the measuring tape is colored bright yellow with black numbers on it. This makes it clearly visible at all angles.
What Could've Been Better?
The instructions that came with this pack were not clear, and hence the installation process became difficult. The pictures were not sufficient, and the text did not describe every step properly. We will suggest calling up customer care for more help regarding this.
Pros
Rails measure 57 inches
Maximum rip capacity of 30 inches
Cam lever locks easily
Wide right-angle design
Cons
Instructions to install were insufficient
Dimensions: 17.25" x 61" x 7" | Weight: 56lbs | Material: Aluminum, Steel | Fit: Fits Most Table Saws
If you want to ensure that there is no movement when you are working with boards, then the Shop Fox W1720 Aluma-Classic Fence is an incredible choice. It will lock in position perfectly and will ensure you have a smooth working experience. Read on to know all about its bells and whistles.
Steel and aluminum fence body; Adjustable fence wear pads;...
Long 79-Inch rails provide 50-Inch maximum rip capacity to...
Why Did We Like It?
This tool is made of aluminum and steel, and both of these materials are thick and sturdy. It sports a right-angle design which ensures complete precision and accuracy. You will also find the adjustment points to be widely placed so that the process of setting up becomes easy.
To make it simpler, this even has a cam-lever locking mechanism and a torsion box. Both of these will help you fit the fence on any saw. Tighten the joints, and you should have an error-free experience.
Adding to this, there is an adjustable magnified cursor lens and a self-adhesive measuring tape. Both of these help in the quick and easy positioning of the boards and the fence. This, accompanied by long rails, proves to be the perfect choice for larger workpieces.
What Could've Been Better?
When we initially ordered this product, the rails were not included, and without them, the fence cannot be used. That is when we got in touch with customer representatives and spoke to them about our dilemma. They shipped a replacement, and we did not have any more issues after that.
Pros
Wide right-angle design
Provides sufficient support
Magnified cursor lens
Adjustable fence wear pads
Cons
Rails were missing
Dimensions: 80.5" x 17" x 11.5" | Weight: 21.2lbs | Material: Aluminum, Steel | Fit: Fits Most Table Saws
If you want a replacement fence for RTS21, then the Ryobi 089037011704 Rip Fence will prove to be perfect. It is small and will fit well with specific saws. This is an option that is very popular among customers for its steady performance.
This is indeed a lightweight product that weighs only 1.69 pounds. The low weight will allow you to carry it around easily, and you won’t have to leave it at the work or construction site.
Also, this is a pretty affordable replacement option, and many customers have found it to be better than their original fences. It fits in perfectly and leaves no area for errors.
Coming to the material, this one is made of aluminum, and hence like its peers, it is very strong. It will not be affected by sharp edges and heavy pieces of wood. Plus, there is a single-locking cam handle that makes it all the easier to work with. The clamps present will help you lock the fence in place and ensure that it does not move even due to vibration.
What Could've Been Better?
Now, this is not a universal fence and will not fit all kinds of saws. So, please check the measurements well before making a purchase. If it fits, then it will work out just fine. Also, we believe that it can be shipped better as there were some dents on the body when it arrived.
Pros
Made of aluminum
Easy to handle
Single-locking cam handle
Prevents movement of any kind
Portable
Cons
Not a universal fence
Inefficient shipping
Dimensions: 4" x 4" x 24" | Weight: 1.69lbs | Material: Aluminum | Fit: RTS21
Are you looking for a simple tool that will ensure accuracy? The Delta Power Tools 78-919BT2 Biesemeyer Fence is a brilliant option and is available in a classic black color. It is designed to be sleek and will easily fit with 36-L352, 36-L552LVC Type 2 Unisaws, and 36-L552 models.
Simple and accurate 3 point locking system rated industry...
Fits models 36-L352, 36-L552 and 36-L552LVC Type 2 Unisaws
Why Did We Like It?
This is one of the heavier options that work well for professional use. A 3-point locking system will keep the workpieces in place and ensure that there is no movement while cutting. It is rated to be one of the best products in our market thanks to the accuracy achieved every time.
Secondly, it glides easily and smoothly over the steel fence body. This easy movement allows for quick and precise cutting and ripping. You will be able to make square and rip cuts constantly, and you can complete a lot of work in a short period of time.
Also, the packaging was done well, and the product arrived without a scratch. We found no dents, and there were enough packaging materials inside the box to protect it.
What Could've Been Better?
This product arrived without rails, and that turned out to be disappointing. Now you cannot really work with a fence with no rails, and we had to purchase it separately. This cost us more, and the entire expenditure rose. We wish that the brand would look into this.
Pros
Adjustable fence for better accuracy
Easy-gliding fence
Ensures perfect square cuts
For both left and right-hand cuts
Cons
Comes without rails
Dimensions: 44.75" x 18.5" x 6.5" | Weight: 30.9lbs | Material: Steel | Fit: Fits Models 36-L352, 36-L552, & 36-L552LVC Type 2 Unisaws
Now that we are nearing the end of this list, it is time to introduce one of the most loved products. The Bosch Parts 2610950148 is a perfect option for most Bosch saws and will work as a replacement unit in case your older fence is broken or is malfunctioning.
This is an OEM-authorized part and will work like the original part itself. We found it to be extremely smooth, and it glided on the surface well.
Also, since it weighs just 5.12 pounds and is 29 x 7 x 5 inches in size, you can carry it around from the construction site easily. We did not require an extra cart for this purpose.
Moreover, it can be used out of the box, and you do not have to assemble the parts. The product needs 0 adjustments and stays exactly parallel to the base. There are clamps that lock this in position, and it does not move out of place.
Lastly, it is cost-effective and will not burn a hole in your pockets. We found that it worked perfectly well with our Bosch saw.
What Could've Been Better?
The only issue here is that this product will not work with other brands and may not fit well. In case you find that the measurements are perfect for your saw of another brand, we will suggest calling up customer care and asking them about it. You would not want to spend the money and then realize it does not work.
Pros
Works with Bosch Parts models
OEM authorized part
Locks easily for perfect placement
0 adjustment required
Cons
Will not work with other brands
Dimensions: 29" x 7" x 5" | Weight: 5.12lbs | Material: N/A | Fit: Fits Various Bosch Parts Models
Now while there might be a hoard of options that are presented to you, you will have to make a wise decision and choose one. There are certain factors that helped us make a decision. We believe these variables could help you out too, and hence, we have listed them down here.
Material
The material is one of the essential factors that you got to check while purchasing a saw fence. This is because you will be working with heavy and sharp parts, and the fence has to be sturdy enough to deal with them. Opt for steel or aluminum as these are the strongest materials currently in the market.
Now the trick is to find the most sturdy option, which is also lightweight. A very heavy fence would not be portable, and if you want to move it around, it can be difficult. A lighter model can be taken from and brought to construction sites daily.
Remember that wood and plastic might be present in some products, but they are weaker and may break due to excessive force.
Weight
So, a heavy fence means that it is difficult to slide, and you will have to put in a lot of effort to make it move. This requires a lot of physical strength, and choose this only if you are willing to take on the work.
On the other hand, a lightweight option may not be as strong as a heavy one and may get damaged easily. This works well for DIY projects around the house but may not be well-suited for continuous construction work. We will recommend understanding your requirements carefully before purchasing.
Installation Process
While some products will come assembled, others will not, and it is on you to assemble them. So, in case it is not assembled, check for an instructions manual. If there is none, contact the company immediately to provide you with clear instructions. Otherwise, it may become a very hectic and strenuous job to put together the machine by yourself.
YouTube videos can help out but let that be the last resort.
Table Saw Fences FAQs
Why is a table saw fence important?
A table saw fence is paramount for successfully completing straight and accurate cuts. It offers support and keeps the material steady while it’s being cut, which significantly raises the accuracy and safety of the cutting process.
How do I install a table saw fence?
Installation steps depend on the type of saw fence. They generally involve placing the fence parallel to the saw blade, securing the fence rail, and adjusting the fence to the desired position. Please refer to your product’s specific instruction manual.
How do I know if my table saw fence is aligned correctly?
Your fence is aligned correctly if it’s parallel to your saw blade. You can also perform a test cut on a scrap piece to check the accuracy.
How do I maintain my table saw fence?
Routine checks for alignment, cleaning after use, regular lubrication, and protection against rust and corrosion are key steps in maintaining your table saw fence.
Conclusion
A good fence will ensure that you can work quickly and smoothly without any errors. In case you are purchasing for professional use, it has to glide smoothly so that the work is done without any issues.
Also, check all the parts when the product arrives and see if you have received everything. If not, immediately call up customer care and get it resolved.
Now, let us do a quick recap of our favorites. The DELTA 36-T30T3 Fence System is a very versatile product and will work with a number of different saws.