The radial arm saw is a tool that has been a mainstay in workshops and construction sites, particularly the vintage Craftsman models, which are celebrated for their durability. Sears, the brand that originally distributed the Craftsman, produced these saws to offer woodworkers precision and versatility. While newer models exist, many woodworking enthusiasts still seek out the older 113 series due to its robust construction and reliability.
The Craftsman Legend: More Than Just a Saw
Alright, folks, let’s dive headfirst into the nostalgic world of woodworking, where the name “Craftsman” still rings with a certain reverence. We’re not just talking about any old tool here; we’re talking about the Craftsman radial arm saw, a true icon that has carved its way into the hearts (and workshops) of woodworkers for generations. I mean, who hasn’t seen one of these bad boys kicking around?
Craftsman, the brand, well, it’s pretty much synonymous with quality and reliability. For decades, they’ve been pumping out tools that can take a beating and keep on ticking. My grandpa swore by his Craftsman wrench set, and chances are, your dad (or grandpa!) had a Craftsman something-or-other in their garage. But the radial arm saw is in a different league!
Now, what makes this saw so special? Versatility, my friends, versatility! This ain’t no one-trick pony. It can crosscut, rip, miter, and even dado its way through your woodworking projects, all with a level of precision that’ll make you feel like a true artisan. From building birdhouses to crafting custom furniture, the Craftsman radial arm saw is your trusty sidekick.
Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker with sawdust in your veins, a weekend DIY warrior looking to tackle your next project, or even a collector with a penchant for vintage tools, this guide is for you. We’re gonna unpack everything you need to know about these legendary saws, from their history and anatomy to their quirks and collectibility. So, grab your safety glasses, settle in, and let’s get sawing!
Understanding the Anatomy: Key Components and Their Functions
Ever wondered what makes a Craftsman radial arm saw tick? It’s not magic, although the precision and power they offer can sometimes feel like it. Let’s break down the key parts of this woodworking workhorse, so you know your motor from your miter gauge!
The Powerhouse: Motor
The motor is the heart of your radial arm saw, providing the muscle to spin the blade. Horsepower (HP) is the name of the game here. A higher HP rating generally means the saw can tackle tougher woods and thicker stock without bogging down. Think of it like this: a small motor is like a compact car – great for zipping around town, but not ideal for hauling heavy loads. A larger motor is like a truck – ready to take on the tough stuff. Understanding your needs will help you choose a saw with the right amount of oomph.
The Blade Holder: Arbor
The arbor is the shaft that holds the blade. Arbor size matters because it determines what blades you can use. Different blades have different sized center holes, so make sure the blade you want to use is compatible with your saw’s arbor. It’s like making sure you have the right size socket for your wrench – if it doesn’t fit, it won’t work!
The Cutting Edge: Blade
Ah, the blade! This is where the magic really happens. Radial arm saws can use a variety of blades, each designed for a specific purpose.
- Crosscutting blades are perfect for making cuts perpendicular to the wood grain.
- Ripping blades are designed for cutting along the length of the wood (parallel to the grain).
- Dado blades are used to create wide grooves or channels in the wood. They can be single blades or stacked sets to achieve different widths. Selecting the right blade for the job is crucial for achieving clean cuts and avoiding dangerous kickback.
The Pivotal Connector: Yoke
The yoke is a crucial connector, linking the motor to the arm. This nifty component allows you to swivel and tilt the motor, giving you the flexibility to make angled and beveled cuts. Think of it as the saw’s “wrist,” enabling you to adjust the cutting angle with precision.
The Backbone: Column
The column is the tall, vertical support structure that provides stability to the entire saw. It’s essentially the backbone of the machine. The height of the column affects the saw’s cutting capacity, especially its ability to cut thicker materials. A taller column generally means you can cut thicker stock.
The Reaching Arm: Arm
The arm extends horizontally from the column and supports the cutting head (motor and blade). This is what gives the radial arm saw its unique design and allows you to move the blade across the workpiece. The arm’s length also determines the maximum width of cut you can make.
The Foundation: Table/Work Surface
The table is the flat surface where you place the wood you’re cutting. The size and construction of the table are important for supporting the workpiece and ensuring accurate cuts. A larger table provides more support for longer pieces of wood.
The Straight Shooter: Fence
The fence is a vertical guide that runs along the back of the table. Its primary purpose is to ensure straight and accurate cuts by providing a consistent reference point for the wood. Different types of fences offer varying features, such as adjustability and the ability to attach jigs.
The Angle Master: Miter Gauge
The miter gauge fits into slots on the table and allows you to make precise angled cuts. It’s particularly useful for cutting pieces that need to join together at an angle, such as picture frames or corners of boxes.
The Measurement Tool: Rip Scale
The rip scale is a ruler or measuring guide that helps you determine the width of your cuts when ripping (cutting along the length of the wood). It allows you to set the distance between the blade and the fence for consistent and accurate cuts.
Safety First: Anti-Kickback Fingers/Pawls & Blade Guard
Anti-kickback fingers/pawls and the blade guard are critical safety features. The anti-kickback mechanism helps prevent the wood from being thrown back towards you during a cut, which can cause serious injury. The blade guard is a protective shield that covers the blade, reducing the risk of accidental contact with the spinning blade. Always use these safety features!
Keeping it Clean: Dust Collection Port
Finally, the dust collection port is a connection point for attaching a dust collection system. This helps to remove sawdust from the work area, improving visibility, reducing respiratory hazards, and keeping your shop cleaner. A clean shop is a safe shop!
The Sears and Emerson Electric Story: Craftsman’s Dynamic Duo
So, you’re probably thinking, “Craftsman, yeah, I know the name. Good tools.” But have you ever stopped to wonder who actually made those trusty radial arm saws back in the day? Well, buckle up, because it’s a story involving a retail giant and an electrical powerhouse!
Sears, Roebuck and Co.: The Big Kahuna
First up, we’ve got Sears, Roebuck and Co. Think of them as the cool parent of the Craftsman brand. They weren’t just slapping their name on anything; they were the brains behind the whole operation. Sears had a knack for identifying what folks needed (and wanted!), and then finding ways to deliver it at a price that didn’t break the bank. The Craftsman brand was their way of saying, “Hey, you deserve quality without selling your firstborn!” They set the standards, dreamed up the designs, and made sure those tools lived up to the Craftsman name. In short, Sears provided the vision, marketing, and distribution for the Craftsman radial arm saws that found their way into workshops across America.
Emerson Electric: The Muscle Behind the Machine
Now, Sears might have been the brains, but they needed someone to handle the brawn. Enter Emerson Electric! These guys were the manufacturing masterminds, the ones who took Sears’ ideas and turned them into tangible, saw-wielding reality. Emerson was a major player in the world of electrical manufacturing, and they brought their expertise to the table, crafting the motors and many of the components that made those Craftsman radial arm saws hum. So, while Sears was focused on selling the dream, Emerson was busy building it. Their partnership was a classic case of retail vision meeting manufacturing might, and it resulted in some seriously reliable tools. Without Emerson Electric, there’s a world where Craftsman radial arm saws may not have existed!
Built to Last: Materials Used in Construction
Craftsman radial arm saws weren’t built to be disposable; they were designed to be workhorses that could last for generations. A big part of that longevity comes down to the materials they used. Forget flimsy plastics; we’re talking about materials that scream ‘I can handle it!’
Cast Iron: The Bedrock of Stability
Think of cast iron as the backbone of your Craftsman radial arm saw. It’s the heavy-duty material you’ll find in the base, the column, and sometimes even the table. Why cast iron? Well, it’s incredibly stable. All that mass helps to dampen vibrations, which is crucial for accurate cuts. Ever tried cutting a straight line with a shaky saw? Not fun. Cast iron’s density also means it resists warping and twisting, ensuring your saw stays true for years to come. It’s like the strong, silent type of the material world – reliable and always there to support you.
Steel: Strength Where It Counts
While cast iron provides the foundation, steel brings the muscle. You’ll find steel in the arm, the blade guard, and other critical structural parts. Steel is known for its tensile strength, its ability to withstand stress and strain without breaking. The steel arm allows for consistent and safe movement of the blade across the workpiece. The blade guard needs steel for that extra protection from the spinning blade. It’s what keeps your saw cutting straight and keeps you safe while you work. Basically, if you need something strong and durable, steel is your go-to material.
Aluminum: Lightweight and Ready to Work
You might not think of aluminum as a heavy-duty material, but it has its place in Craftsman radial arm saws. Because it’s lighter than cast iron or steel, it can be useful where weight is a concern, such as for certain housings or smaller components. Aluminum is also naturally corrosion resistant, which is a nice bonus. While it doesn’t have the same vibration-dampening properties as cast iron, aluminum helps to keep the overall weight of the saw manageable without sacrificing durability in less critical areas.
Unlocking Versatility: Core Processes Performed with a Radial Arm Saw
Think of your Craftsman radial arm saw as the Swiss Army knife of your woodworking shop. It’s not just for chopping wood; it’s a multifaceted machine capable of tackling a surprising range of tasks. Let’s dive into some of the core processes that this trusty tool can handle, turning you from a novice into a woodworking wizard!
-
Crosscutting: Making a 90-degree cut across the width of the wood is a woodworking staple. The radial arm saw excels at precise and repeatable crosscuts. Simply place your wood against the fence, ensuring it’s snug and secure, then smoothly pull the blade through. For extra accuracy, use a stop block! It’s like making a guillotine, but for wood… much safer, though.
-
Ripping: Time to slice wood like butter! Ripping involves cutting along the length of the board, creating long, parallel cuts. Secure your material and gradually feed it into the blade, maintaining a steady pace. This requires setting up and locking the saw for ripping. This can be challenging, but the power this saw offers is undeniable!
-
Mitering: Need to make angled cuts for picture frames or intricate joinery? No problem! The radial arm saw’s miter gauge allows you to create accurate angled cuts. Set the miter gauge to the desired angle, clamp your workpiece securely, and make the cut. It’s like geometry class, but way more fun and with far less confusing formulas.
-
Beveling: Let’s add some flair to your projects! Beveling involves cutting an angle across the face of the wood, creating a sloping edge. Adjust the saw’s blade angle and make your cut. Perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any project or when you need something chamfered.
-
Dadoing: Creating grooves or channels in wood is a breeze with a dado blade! Install a dado blade set on your saw and set the cutting depth, then make multiple passes to create the desired width. Great for creating strong joints and adding decorative elements.
-
Resawing: Need to slice a board thinner? The radial arm saw can handle it! It is important to make several shallow passes to achieve the desired thickness. Great for making thin stock for boxes or veneers or when you just have a bigger piece of wood.
Expanding Capabilities: Essential Accessories for Your Craftsman Radial Arm Saw
So, you’ve got yourself a trusty Craftsman radial arm saw! That’s fantastic! But did you know you can turn this already versatile machine into an absolute woodworking powerhouse with the right accessories? It’s like giving your saw a superpower-up! Let’s dive into some must-have accessories that’ll make your projects smoother, safer, and just plain more fun!
Dado What Now? The Magic of Dado Blades
First up, let’s talk about dado blades. Ever needed to cut a wide groove or a perfect dado for joining pieces of wood? These specialized blades are your new best friend. Forget multiple passes with a regular blade; a dado blade lets you create those wide, flat-bottomed cuts in a single pass. Think perfectly fitted shelves or beautiful box joints. They come in different widths, so you can customize your cuts precisely. Trust me; once you go dado, you never go back!
Jig It, Jig It Good: Unleashing Customization
Next, we have jigs. No, not the kind you dance! These are custom-made guides that help you repeat cuts with incredible accuracy and consistency. Need to cut a bunch of identical pieces? Build a jig! Want to create complex shapes? A jig can guide your saw along the perfect path. The possibilities are endless, and the only limit is your imagination. Think of them as training wheels for your saw, ensuring every cut is spot-on. Plus, building jigs is a fun project itself!
Keeping It Alive: Finding Replacement Parts
Even the most reliable Craftsman radial arm saw will need some TLC eventually. That’s where replacement parts come in. From belts and bearings to switches and springs, knowing where to find these crucial components can save you from having to scrap your saw. Online retailers, specialized tool shops, and even some dedicated forums can be treasure troves of parts, both new and used. Don’t let a worn-out part sideline your projects!
Fences: Not Just for Keeping the Cattle In!
Finally, let’s talk about aftermarket fences. The stock fence on your saw might be perfectly adequate, but upgrading to an aftermarket fence can seriously up your accuracy and stability game. These beefier fences provide a rock-solid reference point for your cuts, minimizing wiggle and ensuring precise results. They often come with micro-adjustment features, letting you dial in your cuts with laser-like precision. It’s like giving your saw a much-needed stability upgrade!
Safety First: Taming the Beast – Essential Safety Considerations for Your Craftsman Radial Arm Saw
Alright, let’s talk safety! We all love our Craftsman radial arm saws, right? They’re like the trusty old pickup truck of the woodworking world. But just like that pickup, they can be a bit unforgiving if you don’t treat ’em right. So, before you even think about firing up that saw, let’s run through some absolutely essential safety rules. Think of it as your pre-flight checklist before you launch into woodworking orbit!
Kickback: The Woodworking Boogeyman
Okay, seriously, let’s get one thing straight: Kickback is NO JOKE! It’s like the woodworking boogeyman, and it can turn a pleasant afternoon in the shop into a trip to the emergency room faster than you can say “splinter.”
- What causes it? Kickback happens when the blade catches the wood and throws it back at you with unbelievable force. Think of it like the saw is saying, “Nope, not today!”, and sending the wood back for a refund. Common causes include:
- Not holding the wood firmly: The wood needs to be secure against the fence and table.
- Cutting warped or twisted wood: This can cause the wood to bind against the blade.
- Using a dull blade: A dull blade requires more force and is more likely to grab the wood.
- Ripping against the rotation: Always feed the material in the correct direction.
- How do you avoid it?
- Always use the anti-kickback fingers/pawls. These little guys are your first line of defense.
- Hold the wood firmly against the fence and table.
- Use a sharp blade. Seriously, it makes a HUGE difference.
- Avoid cutting warped or twisted wood.
- Understand grain direction.
- ***NEVER*** stand directly in line with the blade.
Blade Guard: Your Shield Against Sharpness
This one is simple. Always, always, ALWAYS use the blade guard. It’s there for a reason, and that reason is to keep your fingers attached to your hand. Don’t remove it, don’t disable it, just use it!
- If your blade guard is damaged or missing, get it replaced immediately.
Proper Clamping: Hold That Thought (and the Wood!)
Imagine trying to cut something that’s wiggling and jiggling all over the place. Sounds like a recipe for disaster, right? That’s where clamps come in!
- Always use clamps to secure your workpiece, especially when making unusual cuts or working with smaller pieces. Make sure the clamps are tightened securely but not overtightened. You don’t want to damage the wood, or break the clamp.
Eye Protection: Because Splinters in Your Eye are NOT a Good Look
I cannot stress this enough: Wear safety glasses! It doesn’t matter if you’re just making a quick cut, or working on a project for hours, always protect your eyes.
- Flying debris, splinters, and dust can cause serious eye damage. A pair of safety glasses is a cheap and easy way to prevent a potentially blinding injury.
Hearing Protection: Save Your Ears!
Radial arm saws are loud, like, really loud! Over time, that noise can damage your hearing.
- Invest in a good pair of earplugs or earmuffs and wear them every time you use the saw. Your ears will thank you later!
Dust Collection: Breathe Easy, Work Clean
Wood dust isn’t just messy; it’s also bad for your lungs.
- Connect your saw to a dust collection system to keep your workspace clean and reduce your exposure to harmful dust particles. If you don’t have a dust collector, wear a dust mask or respirator.
Electrical Safety: Don’t Get Zapped!
Electricity and woodworking don’t always mix well. Here are a few basic electrical safety rules to follow:
- Make sure your saw is properly grounded.
- Never use the saw in a wet environment.
- Inspect the power cord regularly for damage.
- If the cord is damaged, have it repaired or replaced by a qualified electrician.
- Unplug the saw before making any adjustments or repairs.
- Don’t get shocked by a frayed cord!
The Bottom Line: Your Craftsman radial arm saw is a powerful and versatile tool, but it’s important to respect its power. By following these safety guidelines, you can enjoy woodworking for years to come without any unwanted trips to the emergency room. Now, get out there and make something awesome…safely!
Decoding the Specs: Unlocking the Secrets of Your Craftsman Radial Arm Saw
Ever feel like you’re reading a foreign language when you look at the specs of a Craftsman radial arm saw? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! All those numbers and terms might seem confusing, but understanding them is key to getting the most out of your saw and choosing the right one for your projects. Let’s break it down in plain English, shall we?
Blade Diameter: Size Matters (Especially for Cutting!)
Blade diameter is basically the size of the saw blade. Measured in inches, it directly impacts how deep you can cut. Think of it like this: a bigger blade means you can slice through thicker lumber in a single pass. Standard sizes for Craftsman radial arm saws are often around 10 or 12 inches.
- Larger Blades (e.g., 12-inch): Ideal for thicker materials, providing a greater cutting depth.
- Smaller Blades (e.g., 10-inch): More suitable for thinner stock and potentially offer a slightly smoother cut.
Motor Horsepower: Powering Through Your Projects
Motor horsepower (HP) is like the engine size of your saw. It tells you how much muscle the motor has to spin the blade. More horsepower generally means the saw can handle harder woods and thicker materials without bogging down. For most home woodworking tasks, a 1.5 to 2 HP motor is plenty. If you plan on tackling tougher jobs or working with hardwoods regularly, you might want to consider a saw with more horsepower.
- Higher Horsepower: Essential for cutting dense hardwoods and tackling demanding projects.
- Lower Horsepower: Sufficient for lighter tasks and softer woods, suitable for hobbyists and occasional users.
Arbor Size: The Blade’s Best Friend
The arbor is the shaft that holds the blade, and arbor size is the diameter of that shaft. It’s crucial because the blade you use must have the same size hole as the arbor. Common arbor sizes are 5/8 inch and 1 inch. Make sure you know your saw’s arbor size before buying blades to avoid any compatibility issues and potential safety hazards.
- Matching Arbor and Blade: Guarantees safe and efficient blade mounting.
- Using Incorrect Sizes: Poses significant safety risks and can damage the saw.
Cutting Capacity: Knowing Your Limits
Cutting capacity refers to the maximum size of the wood you can cut with the saw. This includes both the width and the depth of the cut. For example, a saw might have a crosscut capacity of 12 inches and a rip capacity of 24 inches. Understanding these dimensions is vital for ensuring the saw can handle the projects you have in mind.
- Crosscut Capacity: The maximum width of a board you can cut perpendicular to its length.
- Rip Capacity: The maximum width of a board you can cut parallel to its length.
- Consider the Size of Your Common Projects: Crucial for choosing a saw with adequate cutting capacity.
RPM (Revolutions Per Minute): The Speed of the Spin
RPM tells you how fast the blade spins. A higher RPM generally results in a cleaner, smoother cut, especially in softer woods. However, too high of an RPM can generate more heat and potentially damage the blade or the wood. Most Craftsman radial arm saws have a fixed RPM, but some newer models may offer variable speed control.
- Higher RPM: Generally better for softer woods, providing cleaner cuts.
- Lower RPM: Can be preferable for harder materials to prevent overheating and blade damage.
- Variable Speed Control: Offers greater flexibility for different materials and cutting tasks.
By understanding these key specs, you’ll be well-equipped to choose the right Craftsman radial arm saw for your needs and get the most out of your woodworking projects. Happy sawing!
Restoring and Collecting: Giving Those Vintage Craftsman Saws Some Love (and Maybe Some Cash!)
Okay, so you’ve got your hands on a vintage Craftsman radial arm saw. Maybe it was your grandpa’s, maybe you snagged it at a garage sale, or perhaps you bravely rescued it from a dusty corner of a workshop. Whatever the story, you’re now the proud owner of a piece of woodworking history! But before you start dreaming of flawlessly cut dovetails, let’s talk about getting that saw back in tip-top shape and what it might actually be worth. Think of it as Antiques Roadshow, but for power tools!
Reviving the Rust: A Guide to Restoration
So, your saw looks like it’s seen better days? Don’t worry! With a little elbow grease, you can bring it back to life. First things first: cleaning. We’re talking about removing years of accumulated sawdust, grime, and maybe even a little bit of fossilized hot dog (hey, we’ve all been there). Use a good degreaser, some wire brushes, and maybe even a little bit of magic to get all that gunk off.
Next, let’s address the repairs. Check for any broken or missing parts. Are the bearings shot? Is the motor making strange noises? These are things you’ll want to address before you even think about plugging it in. Replacing belts, cleaning and lubricating moving parts, and addressing any electrical issues are all part of the restoration process. Remember, safety first! If you’re not comfortable tackling electrical repairs yourself, call in a pro. Finally, consider aesthetics. Maybe you want to repaint it, or simply clean and polish the existing paintwork. Restoring the original decals can add a lot to the value and the look of the saw!
Finding the Elusive Bits: Parts Availability
One of the biggest challenges of restoring a vintage tool is finding replacement parts. The good news is that there’s a surprisingly robust market for Craftsman radial arm saw parts. Here are some places to check:
- Online Marketplaces: Sites like eBay and Craigslist are goldmines for used and NOS (New Old Stock) parts. Be patient, and you’re likely to find what you need.
- Specialty Tool Dealers: Some dealers specialize in vintage tool parts. A quick Google search for “Craftsman radial arm saw parts” should turn up some leads.
- Woodworking Forums: Woodworking forums are great places to connect with other enthusiasts who may have parts to sell or know where to find them.
- Local Machine Shops: If you’re missing a critical part that’s impossible to find, a local machine shop may be able to fabricate a replacement.
- Always check model numbers to ensure compatibility.
Show Me the Money!: Determining Market Value
Okay, let’s get down to brass tacks: what’s your vintage Craftsman radial arm saw worth? The answer, as always, is “it depends.” Several factors influence the market value of these saws:
- Condition: A saw in excellent, fully functional condition will be worth significantly more than one that’s in rough shape.
- Model: Certain models are more desirable than others. Do some research to see if you have a particularly sought-after model.
- Completeness: A complete saw with all of its original parts and accessories will be worth more than one that’s missing components.
- Location: Prices can vary depending on your location. Check local listings to get a sense of the market in your area.
To get a better idea of the market value, check completed listings on eBay and other online marketplaces. Look for saws that are similar to yours in terms of model, condition, and completeness. Remember, the value is what someone is willing to pay.
While you probably won’t get rich selling your vintage Craftsman radial arm saw, you can take pride in restoring a piece of woodworking history and passing it on to someone who will appreciate it. Or, you can keep it and enjoy using a truly classic tool! Either way, you’re part of a tradition that stretches back generations. Happy woodworking!
So, whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or just starting out, a vintage Craftsman radial arm saw can be a fantastic addition to your workshop. Sure, it might need a little TLC, but with some elbow grease and a bit of know-how, you’ll have a reliable and versatile tool that’ll last for years to come. Happy sawing!
