I'm a novice woodworker with plenty of questions. I've been building Adirondack chairs. The design requires cutting several long diagonals in 1x6's (for legs, arms, etc.). Would a table saw help me make those cuts?

Currently, I use a circular saw guide that I constructed out of a sheet of plywood. The guide must be attached to the piece of wood I'm cutting and then unattached. It's a real big pain. I've been struggling with the idea of getting a table saw anyway, so your input may help me get it sooner!!

Thanks,

Cain

A table saw will make it much easier and safer. You would use an angle jig that can be purchased and can be set at almost any angle. If you do get one, get a good one with a solid base and a good fence system. Stay away from the table top models.

If you like tools and woodworking a good tablesaw should be your first station tool. I can't imagine ripping lumber or cutting dados without one. (Consider a quality carbide blade and dado head if you buy a table saw) That said, I still find myself using the "clamped straight edge" regularly! Sometimes for large sheets it is far easier to 'move the tool' than horse around a large piece of lumber by yourself. :-)