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Writer's pictureKieran Helbling

DEWALT DWE7491RS: Your Early Woodworking Journey's Perfect Investment

Updated: Jun 1, 2023

Prior to owning a table saw, I was using a combination of circular saw and jig saw approach to ripping and finishing projects. Needless to say, though possible, it was much harder to get the results I was looking for. Getting straight lines requires having perfectly flat reference surfaces and having the ability to set your angles against those level planes. When I finally had a little more space to store tools, one of the first investments I made was picking up a DEWALT DWE7491RS, and boy, was it a game-changer!


Are you ready to dive into the world of woodworking? While a table saw isn't a requirement, it will make your building process significantly easier. In my shop, the DEWALT DWE7491RS table saw has stood the test of time, never wavering in performance. It's become my trusted companion throughout several years of woodworking projects, and I couldn't be happier with its durability and dependability. A tool of this caliber is a game-changing investment that will set you up for success from the start. Let's explore why this table saw deserves a prime spot in your workshop.


What's to Love


One of the standout advantages of the DWE7491RS is its space-saving design. As a small business owner juggling multiple responsibilities, space is precious. This table saw doesn't take up much room in my workshop, allowing me to maximize the space and work efficiently. It's a practical choice that fits seamlessly into my workflow.


Aligning the DWE7491RS is a breeze, making it incredibly user-friendly, even for beginners. The adjustable fence ensures precise cuts that allowed me to achieve professional-looking results from day one. Whether I am crafting shelves, building tables, or cutting joints, this saw consistently delivers the accuracy I needed.


Safety is paramount in woodworking, and the DEWALT DWE7491RS addresses this concern with its blade guard and anti-kickback pawls. If you've ever used a table saw for a period of time, you have likely experienced some form of kickback - this is when the wood, instead of gliding through the saw, binds (often agains the face plate) and launches either a portion or all of the wood back in your direction. As you can imagine, this can be an incredibly dangerous situation. I still pay extra care while working with any cutting tool including this one, but these features provide me significant peace of mind.


Maintaining a clean and organized workspace is vital for productivity, safety, and enjoyment. The conveniently located dust port on the DEWALT DWE7491RS is a lifesaver. It efficiently collects sawdust and debris, keeping my work area clean and minimizing potential hazards. It's one less thing to worry about, allowing me to focus on what I'm building rather than the dust in the air and the mess on the floor and walls. Pro tip: when you don't have a vacuum attached to the dust port, the saw dust gets blown into the air. It can be seriously annoying and unhealthy to be breathing all of that dust in. Some wood dust can even be toxic. I always advise using at least a shop vac to hook up to tools you are using with a dust port to limit exposure to the dust. And even when you do use a vacuum, be sure to always wear a dust mask and goggles.


What Would I Change?


As with any tool, the DEWALT DWE7491RS has a couple of minor drawbacks. Power tools can be loud, and this one is no exception. In particular, it gets noisier when working with tougher materials. I am a big advocate of appropriate hearing protection in the shop, no matter what power tool is being used. Additionally, the maximum rip capacity is relatively limited compared to larger saws, which may be a consideration if you plan on working with larger pieces of wood. This hasn't yet presented any issues for me personally, and if you are a beginner or intermediate woodworker, or simply have a limited amount of space in your shop, these limitations are unlikely to hinder your abilities.


TL;DR


Pros:

  • Powerful 15-amp motor and 10-inch blade for versatile woodworking projects.

  • Adjustable fence ensures precise cuts, delivering professional-looking results.

  • Blade guard and anti-kickback pawls prioritize your safety during cutting operations.

  • Conveniently located dust port keeps your workspace clean and hazard-free.

  • Built to last, providing durability and reliability.

Cons:

  • Can be noisy, especially when cutting through tougher materials.

  • Maximum rip capacity is somewhat limited compared to larger saws.


The DEWALT DWE7491RS is a best in class table saw that is an excellent investment early in your woodworking journey. It's been my trusty partner, propelling my woodworking business forward with its power, precision, and reliability. This tables will allow you to confidently tackle a variety of projects and achieve professional-level results. Don't let its compact size fool you—this saw packs a punch!

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