What is the Best Saw Horse? Reviews of Heavy-Duty Models (2024)

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Finding time for DIY projects may be a challenge, but securing the right workspace is often even more difficult. That’s why I love having my own sawhorses, ones that I can move and transport with ease.

However, I’d advise against just grabbing any sawhorse off the shelf. I’ve learned the hard way that some, if not, most are flimsy and not up to heavy tasks. If you’re looking for the best sawhorses, here are the ones I swear by!

Premium Option
Bora Portamate Pair
Editor’s Choice
Worx WX051 Pegasus
Budget Option
ToughBuilt Sawhorse
Bora Portamate Pair
Worx WX051 Pegasus
ToughBuilt Sawhorse
• Supports 1500lbs ea.
• Pre-drilled metal top
• Award-winning
• Non-sequential legs
• Supports 1000lbs
• Foldable
• Custom clamps
• Lightweight
• Supports 1100lbs
• 2x4 supporting arms
• Heavy duty option
• Easy grip handle
Premium Option
Bora Portamate Pair
Bora Portamate Pair
• Supports 1500lbs ea.
• Pre-drilled metal top
• Award-winning
• Non-sequential legs
Editor’s Choice
Worx WX051 Pegasus
Worx WX051 Pegasus
• Supports 1000lbs
• Foldable
• Custom clamps
• Lightweight
Budget Option
ToughBuilt Sawhorse
ToughBuilt Sawhorse
• Supports 1100lbs
• 2x4 supporting arms
• Heavy duty option
• Easy grip handle

Reviews of the Top Saw Horses

1. WORX WX051 Pegasus Folding Work Table & Sawhorse

The WORX WX051 Pegasus Portable Sawhorse can be converted into a sturdy workbench with the help of its fold-out legs and supports. 

In addition, the bench’s top features two integrated clamps for added convenience. Whatever you’re using, they’ll seize upon it with both hands and refuse to let go. The versatility of this item may lead you to believe it is weak. 

But this particular sawhorse/workbench has been a game-changer. Despite its sturdy build, it only weighs 30 pounds, which makes it easy to move around and store. Plus, there’s a handy built-in shelf at the base, perfect for keeping all my extra supplies organized on the job site!

What I Like

What I Don't Like

2. Bora Portamate Speedhorse Sawhorse Pair

The Bora Portamate Speedhorse Sawhorse is my top premium pick. This set comes with two sawhorses, both boasting impressive weight capacities. A standout feature for me is the adjustable four legs on each sawhorse. Thanks to its quick-release deploy technology, they easily fold up, making storage a breeze.

The set is a little more costly than the rest of the models I recommend, but it is money well spent. It is a saw horse that’s compatible with 2x4s and 4x4s with a construction that’s perfect for professional use.

This pair is more convenient, ergonomic, and pleasant to use than others because it’s easy to set up and fold and is space-saving. There are also slots on the sides for additional wood.

What I Like

What I Don't Like

3. ToughBuilt TB-C500 Sawhorse with 2x4 Support Arms

I was genuinely impressed with the ToughBuilt TB-C500. Despite its affordability, it’s a well-crafted, heavy-duty workhorse that has proven its durability and strength.

The top-tier steel used to construct this saw horse allows it to support up to 1100 lbs. In addition, its lightweight construction, adaptable features, and numerous applications all work together to ensure your complete satisfaction.

The collapsible construction of this saw horse is one of its best features. When folded, the four sturdy legs provide a compact and convenient way to store the saw horse when unused. The unit’s portability is further improved by the inclusion of a handle that’s comfortable to hold. 

What I Like

What I Don't Like

4. Amazon Basics Folding Sawhorse

This pair of saw horses continues Amazon Basics’ tradition of generating higher-quality tools and equipment. These traditional sawhorses can hold up to 900 pounds and are reasonably priced. 

Since they are fabricated from premium plastic, these saw horses are incredibly lightweight and convenient to move around. They are also highly transportable due to their folding nature. In addition, they have rubber soles that prevent them from sliding around, so you may walk around in complete safety. 

Overall, the Amazon Basics Folding Sawhorse pair is one of the best saw horses to consider if you’re searching for a high-quality, low-priced unit for your DIY projects.

What I Like

What I Don't Like

5. Rockwell JawHorse Portable Material Support Station

The 600-pound load capacity of this Rockwell JawHorse support station is a testament to its strong steel construction. 

The entire length of this tool is secured by a single clamp mechanism that can apply a massive ton of pressure. You can lay a sheet of plywood on top and secure it to create an on-the-spot job table. Alternatively, bring it in tight and use it as a vice to hold your work firmly. Rest assured, it’s not going anywhere.

Working requires a lot of manual labor, so your hands are naturally occupied much of the time. But the JawHorse has a foot pedal lever to regulate the clamping. Unlike other sawhorses, you can use it while keeping both hands on the job.

What I Like

What I Don't Like

6. Stanley Storage 060864R

Stanley has a reputation for delivering top-notch tools without breaking the bank. This sawhorse, crafted from rubberized plastic, is not only lightweight and easy to move around but also notably durable, holding up well to unintended drops.

The pair have a combined weight capacity of up to 1,000 pounds, however, you shouldn’t attempt to push them to their limit. These Stanley 060864R Sawhorses come with various convenient additions, such as notches for 2x4s, a connecting hinge, and hooks on the side for securing cables. 

Although it’s not a particularly robust device, Stanley’s sawhorse is surprisingly versatile and a great buy for the do-it-yourselfer.

What I Like

What I Don't Like

7. Metabo HPT Sawhorses

This set of saw horses from Metabo that can be used in various settings and are equipped with various useful functions. You’ll get a pair of saw horses and four sawbucks to help you cut the sheets and panels you need. 

These saw horses are excellent for heavy tasks, supporting up to 1200 pounds. Plus, they come with handy features like built-in storage shelves and hooks, which really streamline my projects.

What I appreciate most about the Metabo HPT sawhorse is its no-assembly-required approach. It’s also priced attractively, but it lacks the folding legs in its design.

What I Like

What I Don't Like

Saw Horses Buyer’s Guide

Design and Size

Before you plan to create a DIY saw horse or buy a new one, look for flaws in the saw horse’s design, construction, and durability. The only thing a cheap saw horse will offer you is trouble. But you will appreciate a well-made, long-lasting, heavy-duty tool for decades. 

Not all sizes of timber planks can be supported equally by a pair of sawhorses. Saw horses range in height, width, and weight-bearing capabilities. 

So, when you buy a saw horse, ensure you know exactly how much weight it can hold. You should also take note of the sawhorse height and high weight capacity.

Build and Material Durability

Wood

Wood, being the classic sawhorse material, offers various advantages, such as durability and a high weight-bearing capacity. Even if you accidentally hit the sawhorse with your saw, it is unlikely to sustain significant damage.

Although it is no longer a common material of choice for sawhorses, wood is very heavy. Wooden sawhorses with folding or adjustable legs are rare to find among manufacturers.

Plastic and Polymer

Plastic and polymer are great options if you only require a sawhorse occasionally for light-duty chores like painting, sawing plywood, or supporting a makeshift worktable. Most heavy-duty plastic sawhorses are foldable, lightweight, and easy to store.

There are many options, many of which have quick clamps, or one sawhorse may have little shelves to hold your materials in place and close at hand.

Metal

I’ve always trusted commercial-grade sawhorses as they’re the industry standard and loved by both DIY enthusiasts and professionals like myself. Most of them have designs that allow for easy storage, either by compressing down or folding up. 

Features like clamps, vises, shelves, and fold-down sides give some of these units that extra workspace edge.

The drawback is that if you hit a steel sawhorse, it could get bent or broken. If left outside, metal sawhorses can rust and become useless.

Load Capacity and Clamping Pressure

Aside from the different materials they’re made from, sawhorses range in weight capacity from 250 to over 1,000 pounds. The typical do-it-yourselfer probably doesn’t need the highest weight capacity, whether dealing with wood or paint.

However, a high-capacity sawhorse should be considered if you intend to cut huge logs or other particularly heavy hardwood pieces.

Sawhorses with an integrated clamp eliminate the need for one worker to hold the workpiece steady. There’s a wide range of clamp types and their powers. Miniature versions with bar clamps can generate up to a thousand pounds of pressure. 

Heavy-duty foot-operated versions and vice-type clamps can exert forces greater than 2,000 pounds.

Foldability

To get the most out of your saw horse, you should seek one that folds up. As a result, moving the saw horse around won’t be a problem at all. Not to mention, a folding sawhorse is much simpler to store than a non-foldable one.

Additionally, one of the most useful and flexible properties a saw horse can have is its height-adjustable legs. Height-adjustable sawhorses must have support legs that can fold flat so as not to hog valuable space.

Stability and Size Support

It’s not just the weight of the timber that saw horses can’t handle but also the dimensions of the boards. Saw horses range in height, width, and weight-bearing capabilities. 

Some may only sustain a 24 board, while others can hold a 44. So, when you buy a saw horse, make sure you know exactly how much weight a single sawhorse can hold and if it will meet your needs.

You shouldn’t put your faith in sawhorses that seem like they could fall apart at any moment. Using them with knives or other sharp things is extremely risky, thus, ensure the sawhorse you use is completely stable. 

Brand and Price

When searching for the best sawhorses, always keep your budget front and center. Shopping smart can save you from unnecessary expenses. Just because something is pricey doesn’t always mean it’s the best. Sometimes, a more affordable option can serve you just as well. Always be on the lookout for deals that offer more value for less money.

Storage Space

Having a place to put things on a saw horse isn’t all that significant and doesn’t change its usefulness. However, if you can shell out a little more cash, you will be rewarded with unparalleled ease of use.

The space under some saw horses can be used as a solid shelf or table. To have your most used tools and supplies within easy reach is a huge time saver when working on a project, and this storage space is perfect for that. A sawhorse, including a shelf, is not required but is helpful.

Extra Features and Accessories

There are more characteristics of a good sawhorse to keep in mind:

What is a Sawhorse Used For?

A sawhorse is a four-legged beam used for various purposes in the woodworking industry. This versatile woodworker platform can be used alone or in tandem with another sawhorse, requiring little assembly or training.

Tips and Tricks for Using a Sawhorse

FAQ

How high should sawhorses be? What is their maximum height?

Saw horses can range in height from short to tall variety. Typically, they begin at around 26 inches and extend to around 32 inches. Some versions also have a range of height adjustments and customizations.

Should I always use two sawhorses?

Two simple sawhorses are preferable to one because they provide a more stable level of support for the workpiece. 

It eases the strain on the body and can free up both hands. In some cases, especially with heavy-duty models that have a clamp to hold the workpiece, a single model will suffice.

What are the alternatives for a saw horse?

Boxes, sturdy seats, or wood tables could also work if you want to build sawhorses on your own. It’s crucial that they stay there and don’t bend or move for security and precision in the workplace. However, buying sawhorses made with high-grade steel is ideal. 

Are saw horses worth it?

Yes, saw horses are worth it. You can utilize them for anything from chopping lumber to constructing makeshift tables and benches. Any homeowner or woodworker who enjoys working with their hands will find a sawhorse to be an invaluable tool.

How much weight can a saw horse support?

A saw horse can support 250 to 1,000 pounds. Most woodworkers and painters won’t need the full load capacity, nor will most DIYers.

What is the best angle for sawhorse legs?

An angle around 15 and 25 degrees off vertical is solid and secure. Most sawhorses take up more room but are more stable with wider angles.

My Top Pick For a Saw Horse:
WORX WX051 Pegasus

Out of all the sawhorses I’ve tried and worked with, the Worx WX051 stands out as the best.

In its sawhorse configuration, it can support up to 1200 lbs, and when set up as a worktable, it holds a solid 300 lbs. It is also very adaptable; the entire thing folds up compactly, much like a suitcase, making it convenient to take with me wherever I go.

robert headshot

Robert Johnson is a passionate furniture maker & carpenter, sought after for his knowledge on the craft.
You’ve probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.

Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.

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