The Shop Fox W1824 is a hybrid table saw that is light-weight and includes an interchangeable true riving knife. While it is a very useful tool with some great features, it also comes with some ups and downs, just like with any other similar product.
To determine whether this table saw aligns with your project needs, I have conducted an in-depth analysis of its key features below:
PRO TIP:
Shop Fox W1824 units are running short these days.
If you want another great option from Shopfox, the W1824 is a hybrid table saw that’s worth checking out. Know more about it below!
What I Like
- The T-shaped fence remarkably easy to adjust while in the midst of a project.
- Both the anti-kickback pawls and blade guard are straightforward to install and remove.
- The dust collector runs nice, smooth and quietly compared to some of the other table saws on the market. You are able to obtain smooth, flawless cuts without kickback or binding issues. Here's a comparison of the known table saws of 2024: https://www.sawinery.net/best-table-saw/
What I Don't Like
- The blade alignment can present a slight challenge if the trunnions are overly tightened.
If I appreciate the concept of having a table saw that offers dual cutting options, such as the true riving knife for woodworking projects that don’t demand a complete cut through, I’d naturally want to delve into the various other attributes of this versatile tool.
Design
The Shop Fox w1824 is quite similar in comparison when it comes to the design of the model to other table saw on the market. You will find that the powder white-coated, a cube-shaped base that this model acquires is one that can be found in about 95% of the other table saw models that are available on the market.
Just taking a first look at the w1824, you will realize that there isn’t very much of a difference in the parts that are included in the designs. The majority of table saws include an extension table. What allows the w1824 to stand out from the rest of them is the burgundy color of the extension table surface. The rest of the surface area of the table is deep gray. The colors incorporated into this model aren’t too bold or bright; they’re considered earth tone or base colors.
The hazard labels and functions are placed on areas of the machine that are easy to find which contributes to the machine is a great hybrid tool for first-timers, as they won’t get easily confused with the functions. This model allows you to make use of the combination of contractor style and cabinet style. Get more ideas for top-performing hybrid table saws for both professionals and big jobs.
Features
True Riving Knife
The true riving knife for this table saw works basically with the same purpose as the spreader. It prevents the piece that is being worked on from pinching the back of the blade which can cause kickback. However, the difference between the spreader and the riving knife is that the riving knife mounts below the highest point of the rotation.
The height differential serves a crucial purpose, enabling the workpiece to pass over the blade when a full cut isn’t required. This feature proves especially handy for making partial cuts without completely severing the wood. It’s a technique I find quite practical in various woodworking scenarios.
Precision Cast Iron Table
The cast iron table that this hybrid table saw has gives it the sturdiness that it requires in order to perform heavy-duty woodwork tasks. Testing it for this Shopfox W1824 review allowed us to confirm how well-built the table is, and you can definitely have no worries working on heavier projects.
Cast iron is one of the sturdiest metals available for heavy-duty tools. This means that wear and tear won’t come easy for this machine, and you can expect it to last for many, many years.
Cast Iron Trunnions
The trunnions on the w1824 are also cast iron to allow extra sturdiness and ease of use for the joints of the table saw. If the trunnions were made of materials any less sturdy then there would be obvious signs of quick wear and tear on the pivoting points of the machine. With that being said, it is quite necessary for the trunnions to be made of a material like a cast iron.
Low – Friction Composite Extension Table
Incorporating a low friction extension table into this tool is a smart move. It ensures that my work proceeds smoothly and effortlessly during projects. This feature is critical because excessive friction between moving parts can result in damage and compromise the overall ease of movement. Consequently, the low friction design proves highly advantageous for a tool designed for frequent and repetitive use.
Quick Release Blade Guard
The Quick Release Blade comes complete with independent lifting sides and retractable pawls.
It’s main purpose is to help with reducing injuries that could occur while you are operating the machine.
FAQ
What is the HP of the motor?
It is a 2HP motor, like the Shopfox W1837.
Can the dust port be moved to the opposite side?
No. There isn’t an opening for mounting a dust port on the other side of the machine. A dust port wouldn’t be able to function properly on the opposite side even if an opening was created on the opposite side.
Shopfox W1824 Review Conclusion
The Shop Fox w1824 is one of the least expensive models of table saws on the market to purchase. You get a decent amount of features and a quality product at an affordable price.
While it may have a few cons, it also has its pros which outweigh the cons, so all in all this would easily be one of the best investments that you make for your future woodworking projects.
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.
