When I was in the market for a portable work table saw, I came across the impressive SawStop technology. The security features and build quality of their tools immediately caught my attention. However, I was hesitant because I didn’t have enough space in my small shop for a full-size cabinet saw. But when the SawStop Construction Site Table Saw (JSS-120A60) was introduced, I knew it was the perfect solution.
The SawStop construction site table saws come with a hefty price tag of $1,299 plus shipping, but considering the scare I had a few years ago, it was a no-brainer for me to invest in its safety features. So, I placed my order and eagerly awaited its arrival.
SawStop Construction Site Table Saw Packaging and Setup
I purchased my SawStop Jobsite table saw from a local dealer, and it was delivered directly to my house in a refrigerator-sized box. The saw was securely packaged in styrofoam with clear instructions on how to install the wheels and unpack it. Within just a few minutes, I had the saw set up and ready to go. It’s incredibly easy to navigate, thanks to its wheelbarrow-like maneuverability.
One impressive feature of the SawStop JSS-120A60 is its onboard storage space. Unlike most construction site table saws, it has a convenient plastic storage compartment that can hold the saw guard, wrenches, miter block, and even a stock brake.
The fence on this saw is smooth and efficient. It doesn’t have complicated attachment points, and the front anchor secures it in place. The fence easily glides left or right along the track, and locking it in position is as simple as pressing the red lever.
To open the table, you just need to release the tab located below the 6″ mark on the left side of the blade and slide the table to the right. The table also features a built-in material support in the fence, which can be adjusted using the top-mounted dial.
Blade and Tool Access and Storage
Swapping out the blade on the SawStop JSS-120A60 is a breeze. The blade guard is easily removable, allowing for quick replacement with a riving knife. The throat plate is non-conductive and lifts easily with plenty of room to operate the release lever.
In terms of tool storage, the rear of this table saw has you covered. It has a clever spring pin system that allows you to slide and store an extra 10″ blade and two blade tools. While the storage capacity could be improved, it’s still a handy feature to have.
The push bar, fence, and cord are conveniently located on the right side of the table saw and lock securely into place for easy transportation. The plastic pusher’s lip is a bit shallow but gets the job done when needed.
Bevel and Depth Adjustment
Adjusting the depth of cut on the SawStop Jobsite table saw is incredibly easy. The depth adjustment wheel is geared to make one full rotation to raise or lower the blade. Bevel adjustment is similarly hassle-free. A quick pull of the wheel, accompanied by a fine-tuning knob, allows you to set the bevel to the precise degree needed. The absence of a hard stop on the fine-tuning knob may raise concerns for some, but it provides flexibility in finding the perfect angle.
The saw’s controls are intuitively designed, with a large paddle-style off switch that can be easily tapped with your knee. Dual LED indicators display system status with various combinations of lights, providing clear feedback on the saw’s mode of operation.
SawStop Dust Collector
Collecting dust with any portable job site table saw can be challenging. Despite attaching a Bosch VAC140A vacuum cleaner to the back of the saw, fine dust particles still managed to accumulate. This may be due to the need for the blade to be exposed to allow the safety brake/cartridge to stop it. However, compared to other saws, the SawStop JSS-120A60 performs admirably, with minimal dust on the bottom and only fine particles on the top. For those who are particularly sensitive to dust, the optional SawStop Sawdust Collection Blade Guard JSS-DCG can significantly reduce dust.
Using the SawStop JSS-120A60 Table Saw
My first cut with the SawStop construction site table saw was in 3/4″ plywood, and I was impressed by the clean 90-degree edge it produced. I’ve since used the saw on beech, oak, and maple, and it effortlessly plows through all materials with minimal vibration. Even tearing through laminated beech tops proved to be no issue. The smoothness of the cut is remarkable compared to other construction saws, providing a sense of confidence and precision.
In independent testing conducted by Pro Tool Reviews, the SawStop JSS-120A60 proved to be a powerful and reliable portable table saw. It excelled in cutting pressure-treated lumber, plywood, and commercial-grade pallet lumber. The smoothness of the cut and the saw’s power left a lasting impression on the testers.
Flesh Detection Technology
One of the most notable features of the SawStop JSS-120A60 is its flesh detection technology. Pro Tool Reviews put this feature to the test and triggered the safety mechanism using a wet piece of pressure-treated wood. The braking mechanism, which is fully replaceable and self-contained, instantly stops the blade and retracts it under the table to prevent injury. The design and construction of the aluminum brakes impressed the reviewers, as they absorbed the blade’s force and stopped it efficiently.
Further testing and comparisons between SawStop and other brands will be conducted in the future to validate the capabilities of this remarkable safety feature.
Final Thoughts
The SawStop Construction Site Table Saw JSS-120A60 is undeniably a top-tier professional portable table saw. Its price of $1,400 reflects the performance and features it offers. SawStop could have simply focused on making a safer construction site table saw, but they went above and beyond by creating a saw that is not only safer but also superior in quality.
As a customer who purchased this saw at full retail price, I experienced some issues with the extension table. However, SawStop’s customer service promptly addressed the problem and replaced the faulty part. This level of service and attention to detail has only reaffirmed my confidence in the SawStop brand.
SawStop JSS-120A60 Saw Additional Features
- One-turn blade height adjustment
- QuickTilt with Trim
- T-Fence with ErgoLock
- Thin Blade Guard
- Tool-less zero-clearance inserts
- Accessory storage drawer
- Extension clip
- Includes: Collapsible Rolling Cart, Miter Gauge, JSS Micro Blade Guard, Cleaving Knife, (2) Blade Wrenches, Push Rod, 10″ Carbide Blade, Standard Stopper Box, 3/4/5mm Hex Key
SawStop Construction Site Table Saw Specifications
- Motor: 15A, 120 VAC 60 Hz, Universal
- Peak HP: 4.0 HP
- Blade Speed: 4,000 RPM (without load)
- Restart protection
- Dimensions (saw): 15-1/2″ H x 31-3/4″ W x 28-3/4″ D
- Dimensions (with folding cart): 45″ H x 26-1/4″ W x 28-3/4″ D
- Weight (saw): 79 lbs
- Weight (with cart): 108 lbs
- Blade Diameter: 10 inches
- Dado Diameter: 8 inches
- Maximum Right Side of Blade Tear (extended): 25-1/2 inches