Its so good to see a reasonable, rational human being explain something in this day and age.

I am new to the RAS, my wife and I just watched this video and thank you for your amazing explanation. We both feel better about me using it. Your method and detailed instructions were on point. Best safety/ training video I have seen in a long time.

Excellent video. I’m so tired of the table saw users criticizing and talking down on the radial arm saw. I own a De Walt 12” contractor grade RAS and I think it’s great. Basically as you stated, one needs to learn the saw completely and how to properly use it. The saw is only as safe as the person operating it. Keep up the great videos. Thanks

I have owned a craftsman radial arm saw since the early 80s. For many years, it was the main saw in my home shop used for crafting and home renovations. I purchased it over a table saw because it was more versatile. Over the years, I have added a table saw and bandsaw. The RAS is still my go-to for croscuts. After 40 years and countless hours, the craftsman still performs perfectly. It is truly a well-made tool, and I have never regretted my choice.

Excellent video, so refreshing not to have an annoying intro, just the facts laid out properly, and well explained.

Very informative with critical safety alerts. My old heavy Craftsman (1984) saw is still serving me well. The smaller sliding miter saws are a lot more portable, but they will not take the place of my old saw. I recently took it to my Daughters house for a renovation of her 12x16 work shop. It has a covered porch (8x12) and a 16x8 uncovered deck. All were rotten. Trim, joists, flooring, 4x4 porch posts, hand rails, etc. Pretty big project for me. My old saw is VERY heavy, so I easily removed the motor/power head, and removed the saw frame from the cabinet. It is working very well mounted to some plywood and clamped to saw horses. The weight of the saw allows ripping as needed the longer and heavy 2x6 boards without the saw sliding about. Sorry for the long post. Thanks again!

Thanks for in-depth explanations of cuts, techniques, and especially safety concerns for the RAS. I’ve used one in my shop for over 25 years. One technique that I’ve used for ripping tappers and stock with uneven edges is to clamp a straight edge to the piece that I’m cutting and use the front edge of the table to guide the straight edge, leaving an inch or two space between the fence and the piece edge. There’s no chance for binding between the blade and the fence. This technique is explained by Wally Kunkel, in his book, How to Master The Radial Arm Saw.

Thanks Walter. I've had my Sears Radial arm saw since 1967 and love it's versatility. I've also been very careful using it and am aware of the safety issues. Your video is the most comprehensive I have ever seen. Thanks again.

Glad our paths crossed. Inherited one of these bad boys and in the process of putting it back together. Thanks to you sir my understanding has gained 10 fold.

What a well kept saw, it’s immaculate! I got a 1972 Craftsman this weekend and it purrs like a kitten!

I bought my Sears 10" in 1973. It is an old friend. On mine, the power switch is positioned just above the handle. In crosscut mode, that allows grasping the handle while resting the thumb on the switch. If something goes haywire, a quick poke with the thumb shuts the motor off. I've done that a few times when I've managed to bind the saw. A couple of years ago, the motor refused to turn. Sawdust had clogged the quick-stop switch. A motor repair outfit in Manchester, NH, got it going, though the quick-stop feature is gone. It never occurred to me to blow the dust out of the motor housing every so often. Clamps come in handy. I've clamped small workpieces by clamping a long piece to hold the workpiece, i.e. the long piece holds the workpiece, and a C clamp holds the long piece tight to the table.

My wife has suggested that I "visit" my Father-in-law's Shop to see if there is anything I would make useful. He has a late 1970's 10" Radial Arm Saw very similar to the one in your video, along with 2 Ammo Cans full of New Blades and Accessories. The only issue I have with "possessing" this Saw, is the "Garage/Shop Realestate" that is required! I just don't want to have his Son's "cashing out" his tools and belongings like a Piggy Bank. Sadly situations like this happen every day, and we cannot save all the "good tools" of the days past... I do have my name on his 1970's CRAFTSMAN Belt/Disc Sander, 1970's CRAFTSMAN (14"?) Band Saw, as well as his 1980's CRAFTSMAN 2 Ton Arbor/Shop Press though. At least these are the tools that I know that will be respected and used properly!

I bought my Sears RAS in 1969. I had two friends one with a RAS and the other a table saw. Watching them and seeing how each saw operates I decided on the RAS. The blade is always in view you know exactly where it’s cutting. So my saw is now 53 years old and is still a stalwart in my shop. I also have a very nice cabinet saw and use them both. Thanks for this very informative video.

I purchased a new one about 40 years ago and a second one (used) 15 years ago and another used in excellent condition last week. All these years working with this saw you have just given me new safety tips that I know nothing about! Thank you.

Glad I listened to your explanation. I have used a radial arm saw for quite awhile for cross-cuts and miter cuts. Thanks

It has all been said below - brilliant, to the point, no wise-cracks, just pure, useful and valuable information. I watched this because I was about to sell my DeWalt RAS. Now I will keep it, thank you Walter.

Best radial arm saw video I've ever seen, great advice!

Awesome video. This should be required viewing for anyone with a radial arm saw before they use one.

That is a beautiful saw you have there. I have a Craftsman Electronic radial arm saw circa 1983 although it is in nowhere as nice of condition as yours. With the electronic radial arm saw you program in the height change on a keypad on the face of the arm. It also reads out degree of bevel and miter. This was really advanced for the early eighties. I believe I paid about $400.00 new back then. I also purchased the adjustable dado cutter which I believe is easier to set up than the stack dados. As far as these saws being more dangerous than a table saw I've got my finger in the table saw twice (same finger) and haven't managed to cut a digit with the radial arm saw (knock on wood). The most common ways a radial arm saw will get you it either kicking a piece of wood back when ripping or having the saw get too aggressive in a cross cut and pulling itself through the cut ( and your hand if it's in the way). You gotta be careful of either saw-never get too comfortable using them. I believe if I could only have a table saw or a radial arm saw I would choose the radial arm saw.

Wonderful. I inherited one of these, a 1970 10" Craftsman with a stuck arm. I refurbished it but I have been leery about using a tool I have never used, seen used or know anyone who uses. This video gives me enough understanding to give it go. Thanks!

Very much appreciate this video. We just recently purchased a home and the seller asked us if we wanted them to leave the craftsman radial saw in the shop. Without hesitating I said yes but was a little concerned I've never used one before. Your video answers many of my questions. Thank you, subscribed.

still use my arm saw all the time great saw

Thank you Walter, I didn’t know that these were so versatile

Thanks, Very informative. Will be on the lookout for one.

Like other commenters here, I too have an RAS (actually 5). I had never found too many RAS YT vids until recently, when new RAS videos have started popping up, including yours. I came here out of curiosity and subscribed/bell because of the quality content. Though you do not focus on woodworking (et. al.) your other videos appear to match my interests and are likely to be of similar quality. I look forward to perusing your wisdom and adventures. Thank you.

In Conclusion.... ANY power tool can cause damage. Table saws can easily break bones and take off fingers. RESPECT the tool always, never think "I've been doing this for xx years. I'm ok" That's when you get lulled into the "I know more" and it's then that the rools says you don't. This tool is no different. I have one, never used "yet" but plan on using. Inherited and just haven't set it up appropriately. But I see benefits to it. For 70 years, must have been good enough. Thanks for video!

Nice job. I've used a RAS off and on for 40 years and loved your review and reminders

Thanks. Appreciate your refresher. I love my RA saw, it doubles as a 4 ft workbench with double front vices. My dad built a home with this saw in about 1960. Saw new from Sears over $600. It works.

All woodworking equipment can be hazardous and requires respect as well as control. Having over 30 years experience with wood there are always interesting things that can happen unexpectedly. I love working with wood and am restoring a RAS now to use for routing primarily.

I learned how to use an RAS in the early 70's (Craftsman, what else?) when I was about 12 years old. I've never had a kickback or lost any body parts. Unfortunately, my dad couldn't say the same thing. But we did come up with a few things that helped minimize the risks. A featherboard clamped to the fence can help keep the piece from climbing, and one attached to the table helps keep constant pressure against the fence. A few years ago I managed to buy one at a rummage sale, had it in the garage always planning to use it. It's a 1958 Craftsman, (again, what else?) that I just took apart, thoroughly cleaned, honed the post pivots, and polished the track grooves and the height screw. I replaced the key switch, located on the top of the arm, with a toggle switch. 'Off' is back so that you push away from you to turn off the saw. I've been watching videos about the RAS, yours are among the best I've found so far. One small addition for your table would be to make a very light reference cut (about 1/32" depth) to show the blade track. Darken it with a sharpie. It will tell you the exact locations of the blade.

Thank and God bless you , You have helped many to go forth in a safer manner.

Second best tool ever made! First place is a Shopsmith. I have both and there is not much in woodworking that you can not do. I suggest getting a 12” if you are out looking for a used one. Way better! BTW, got my first one 1984. Have never had a kickback! The key is the saw MUST be completely aligned before using it. Especially when ripping! And never use a dull blade.

Thanks for the clear and straightforward video.

Excellent explanations thank you. I have the exact same saw that I bought second hand. I have learned an awful lot from these videos and now love my RAS even more. Understanding more is everything. Again, many thanks!

That Sir, was fantastic. Thank you.

Very good! About due for a new table and I'll put on a protective cover this time and see how that works. Your info on kickback will save multiple injuries to those who watched and that I'm sure of, good job!

Thank you, Walter! This is a great deal of wisdom. I learned things I never knew about my own RAS (Ryobi, new in the 1990's). My dado set lives on it & it is used only for that. I don't find any other purpose for the RAS compared to my table saw, but that is a real convenience. I liked the idea of the accessory PTO (mine is set up with a collet for pin routing) but I've never used it. This is the Ryobi version that was later recalled for the motor rarely separating itself from it's mount; never had a problem with mine, fortunately.

This is the best description of safely ripping on a RAS that I have seen on youtube.

Such a great video. Thank you for taking the time to create this. You likely saved a thousand fingers!

Had mine (Craftsman 10"), for 35 years and I NEVER relax while using it. It's a great tool. Use the table saw for most ripping.

I have that exact same saw. It collected dust for a few years but I'm starting to use it again. Really great saw.

I Just got a sears craftsman radial arm saw from my grandpa. This video helped me so much. Thanks for the awesome video!

I Just picked up a 10" Craftsman Radial Saw last week, put out by the curb by a neighbor for heavy-trash pick-up. Thank You for the video! So far, I have only tested it to see that the blade spins. Purrs like a kitten, but per your video - I'll now think of it as a Lion's Roar! It was left along with a box of 8 to 10 blades (plus some that are 7.25"?), and some sort of "router blade". Mine has the large, thicker Front Table, but is currently missing only the Fence, Spacer, and the Rear Table, but it seems I can easily make those with some good wood using my table saw and/or chop saw. Now that I've seen this video - the 3 missing pieces could have easily been sitting in her trash bin (that I failed to peek into, right next to the saw) as I drooled over the free Radial Saw (not that I would have known what I "saw" had I peeked, prior to viewing this video). The lady that ditched it came out, was happy I could use it, took my number and said she would call me if she found "other parts for it" as she cleans her garage. When I got home with it (several doors down), I had already noticed the red cap covering the "accessory" auger, looked up what was available, and started to really wonder what might be left in her garage (due to the cost of the many accessories). I think the addition of the "planer" accessory may be most useful for my needs (and may be sitting lonely, right there in the lady's garage - with who knows what else that should be reunited with my saw). I mainly watched this video to see all the parts I might be missing (so I could print pictures of those from the web for the lady) - and ended up learning so much more!

Great explanation, Thank You !

Best video I’ve seen for this saw. Very informative and educational.

Really appreciate your plain clear explanations and demonstrations. I have a healthy respect for the tool, both in application and danger. Thanks

Excellent Video. Very Informative. Bought a RAS yesterday and after watching your video I'm confident I wont be cutting off my fingers!! Thanks Walter.

Thanks for the great video and explanation my friend, you solved all my table configuration doubts and I learned a lot from the video, will also be using it for future reference..!

great instructional video - just got a used craftsman radial arm saw and this really helps, thank you!

All power tools are dangerous, not just radial arm saws. I don't think that fear is maybe the right word, I choose to say respect. In any case if you are careless around any power tool it can hurt you badly, so everyone please be very, very careful around any power tool. Keep the good stuff coming.

Extremely helpful I had so many questions about this tool from capabilities, handling, safety. Thank you for the great tutorial

Brilliant

Excellent description of a radial arm saw's operation!

Thank you very much! Very helpful use and safety tips.

Even the most seasoned will learn something from this. well presented in a timely and easy to follow manner good job 👏 long live the long hair brotherhood

This is an awesome video and I plan on watching all your videos. With a few jigs the radial arm saw can be used in so many ways it’s kind blowing.

I just watched your video. Thumbs up buddy. Im just setting my radio arm saw up now . They can be dangerous if not operated the right way. Im only using mine for cross cuts and ripping . It's an old Sears craftsman's saw. I love using. It.

I have used this type saw since I was a kid !

very good. I learned a lot

My neighboor said i could have his. I watched this to see if i should get it because i use skillsaws all day and i know you gotta use it right to be safe. Im only 24 years old and i never been around one of these radial arm saws in operation. I can say i feel confident to use it, thanks to you explanation. Thank you for this video Mr Walter 👍

Hey thanks for the video. I learned a lot. I'll have to set up my tabletop like yours. I have a really old DeWalt I picked up about 20 years ago.

This is exactly the info I was looking for! I recently got a radial arm saw for free and don’t know much about them. I am sure I will reference this video make times and I figure the saw out. All the safety tips are greatly appreciated!! Thank you so much.

Great video, I have never used one of these before, but I bought a used DeWalt 770 and watching videos to try and make sure I am careful with it. This video was by far the best for explanations and tutorials by far.

Very good, thank you. I just bought a saw like the one used in this video.

I'd love to see your explanation of the Drill chuck, Routing, Moulding operations. some of the more obscure functions of this machine.

Mine looks exactly like yours but I bought it new in 1977 and I still have it in service. It has the original table and guard even though a few years ago I received the new table and guard from Craftsman as a result of their recall. It's a pretty good saw for the money. I worked in a shop that had a large Rockwell radial arm saw. That was a great saw but at the same time, intimidating.

I just got one of these Sears and Robuck Jems... excellent video. Thank you

Hola! 🖐This is the very first of your videos I have watched and thought it was great! My wife found a Craftsman 10" RAS for me at a Yard Sale and we purchased it. because I have not felt "ready" to use it yet and always thought "I need to study up on it" first. Well this video is perfect, thank you for sharing your knowledge and insight. Take care and have a good one, Adios!👊

Thank you just I watched the entire vid. You likely saved my thumb, fungers, or even an arm. I have a bunch these pop up for 20 to 50 bucks and wondered why so many were getting rid of these so cheaply. 😅😅 Keep saving lives Man!

Thank you Walter for sharing your wisdom and advice on this awesome power tool. This video has helped me understand the versatility and proper use of the saw. I really enjoyed it. God bless.

Excellent instruction. Thank you.

Walter, this is a well done video on the RAS...... I am a bit of an RAS fanatic, at the moment, I own 5, but two are under the weather and need help......all are DeWalt, from 1953 up to 1968 or so.... 16 inch to 9 inch....with 3 10 inch in-between..... I have owned 3 other RAS, a Montgomery Wards, a Craftsman and a 1960 DeWalt 925....which was the a beauty, but had motor issues..... I use mine for many jobs, cutting stainless steel, aluminum, wood, plastic, phenolic..... I also do a lot of grinding of machine tools to sharpen , and modify. using grinding wheels, diamond wheels, and sanding discs.....decorative metal finishes with woven abrasive [Scotchbrite Wheels] and truing steel and stainless steel miter cuts on angle, flat bar and square tubing after cutting on one of the new fangled high speed cold saws for metal that do a terrible job of smoothness...... One thing I found out, was by using a 7 1/2" blade from a 'Skilsaw' I can get fantastic cuts as far as smoothness, lack of stress on saw due to the thinner blade and much lower cost...... Best Wishes from an old Geezer in Florida who has been using the RAS since 1974.... Cheers, Paul

Thank you.

By pure luck, I was able to get a Craftsman Radial Arm Saw for FREE. It works perfectly fine and this video is EXTREMLY helpful. Luckily, the recall kit (blade guard & RAS table) was included. I absolutely love the versatility and it's a lot of fun to work with.

I wouldn’t consider my shop complete without my radial arm in place and operational.

I like this video able these tools, I have this exact same radial arm saw and it’s wonderful!! I don’t use it for everything but I do use it. It’s nice to see some safety tips on this model!😊👍

Well done! Thank you.

thanks for this great video I just buy one and I’m looking for information about safety thank you again

Thank you for education!

I have 2 of those that were given to me and I really like having them, I made a 45 degree jig so that I can leave the saw square to cut a 45 because it can be tough to get square after you move it to an angle.

Very in depth video, thank you for sharing.

super video...pozdrav z czech republik 😀👋👍

Sadly, I witnessed a Severe "Kickback" in Middle School (back in 1988), when the Operator feed the wood in too fast allowing the Workpeice to get grabbed by the blade and shot it back and "plunged itself" back with such force that it cut through their midsection 3" wide all the way through... The school and Instructor where not found at fault, and the student fully recovered after 2 months. Power Tools are NOT toys!

Good saw👍

I wanted one of these during the first half of the video. The second half of the video made me glad that I've never bought one.

Hello Walter, I enjoyed this video. It was perfect. I was looking for a video on how to adjust my radio arm saw but ran into this video and I'm glad I did. I bought this all for $10. It is tight and runs well. It is not set at 90° perfectly. I could put the fence on an angle and get square cuts. I think I can find to knit with adjustments. But I don't know how. Again I am glad I watched this video it was much more important. Thank you. Frank

Lot of good advice right there. Thanks!

Great tutorial. Thanks

Thanks for your information on the radial saw and table.

Awesome video, great tips. Thanks for sharing.

excellent video.

Great video! Been using a Craftsman RAS since buying it new in early 1976. Sadly, it was not as high-end as the one you are using. Wish it was. But it still works just fine. What I don't understand is all the "RASs are dangerous for ripping" stuff the internet is so loaded up with. I understood from day one which side to feed from for in-rip vs out-rip. Since acquiring a miter saw, truth be told, I use the RAS pretty much for ripping exclusively. I'm used to it. Table Saws, otoh, I am NOT used to and THEY seem more dangerous to me than a RAS.

Your blade guard is missing . I've used one without it , but OSHA stopped down and gave me a nice reminder. He also asked about the rip bar . I didn't know I had one but I told him I didn't like them and he agreed. I have a commercial Delta 12 " and after running the cheap 10" saws I'll never go back. Old Dewalts,Deltas and old Sears are good saws in 12" and some 10" . If I have a tough cut I can put on a 10" blade to increase power .

Thank you ,very informative.

Only a few days ago, I attached a laser guide to my RAS. It's made by Oshlun. It attaches to the arbor, and lights up when RPM exceeds 500.

Very glad I watched.. Thank You

Great tutorial! Thank you

Nice saw , and a great video. thx for sharing..

Good review of the capabilities and safety concerns of this saw. I have one from 1971. They are very versatile and effective if you use the proper cation any power tool should be accorded. A couple things I have found helps the radial arm saw are, if possible, running on 220/240 v works much better than 110/120 v. Also, a set of blade stabilizers increases ease of use and accuracy. My understanding of the name "radial arm" is that it comes from the saw operating "radial" as opposed to "reciprocating" and is suspended on an arm - but I guess the pivoting aspect may also have played some part in the name.

It is still the safest to begin your crosscuts with the saw fully extended and push into the cut whenever possible. The rotational direction gets most novices into trouble in the rip cut configuration, one must always feed the work into the blade from the CORRECT direction when rip-cutting! Id be super interested to see some of the more uncommon operations these old Craftsman radial arm saws can do- especially the ones using that auxilliary shaft! I have an old compact Dewalt/B&D 8" so it doesnt have many of the extra features. It sure came in handy before i was able to obtain a tablesaw though!