On Tue, 23 Aug 2005 22:00:44 -0600, "mywebaccts (at) PLUGcomcast.net"
"mywebaccts (at) PLUGcomcast.net" wrote:

Table saws usually come (so it appears to me) with left-tilt mechanisms.
However, you can opt with many manufacturers to buy a right-tilt version.

Many of the left-tilt models will present the left-tilt as a "safety
feature" - implying somehow that the right-tilt is less safe. I saw some
writeup on this but it didn't make a lot of sense. However, there must
be something to it because so many manufacturers seem to bias towards
the left-tilt.

Can anyone explain this in simple terms to me? I realize that in theory,
one should be able to make a mirror image table saw, and that this would
require doing things (like ripping) in a mirrored-image fashion.

Is this simply a matter of preference or are there legitimate reasons
for getting a left-tilt over a right-tilt?

Generally, it's a matter of personal preference and you won't be
unhappy with whichever you choose. I will however, note the following:
For years Delta's Unisaw (and Jet's clone of same) were only available
in right tilt. Ten or so years ago, they started making their saws
available in left tilt. Powermatic has always been left tilt and do
not offer a right tilt. Make of that what you will.

--
LRod

Master Woodbutcher and seasoned termite

Shamelessly whoring my website since 1999

http://www.woodbutcher.net

Proud participant of rec.woodworking since February, 1997