Recently though, I purchased a tool that has changed the way I cut ply and balsa, and also allowed me to start cutting items I would have never considered before.

We all know table saws, and in most cases, trying to get an accurate cut is beyond the reach of normal hobby budgets. With modelling, it is made that much more complex by using materials that will not take well to the course blades associated with normal home quality saws.

Well, I have just recently purchased a table saw that has changed the way I cut materials for my scale sailplanes.

The Proxxon Bench Circular Saw is a great tool in a small package. This is not the most powerful saw, nor the most versatile without the plethora of bolt on devices, but it is the most useful device in my shed.

All of the normal specifications can be seen on the website, and I am not interested in repeating those, but I want to show you the modifications I have made that have transformed this device into a game changer.

The main issue with this saw is that with the blade being so accurate, the run up to the blade is no where near long enough if you are cutting long items.

Given I was wanting to cut spars and stringers for my KA3 build , I wanted to be able to have a long run to the blade that made the cut accurate over long distances.

Bored one night and looking to see how I could make a better run up, I made up the following clamp on table for the saw.

You can make this as long or short as you like; depending on your needs. Mine was dictated by the material lying round. 15mm ply, couple of hardwood planks and some screws… Tada!

The drawing explains the basic concept and remember to make a cut out for the switch. The Unit is attached to the saw by a wide jaw clamp.

The saw is attached to one ply base plate while the table is attached to the other – this gives you a level playing field and squares up the table when you clamp it on.

In my case I had a spare fence from a triton unit, but any ali right angle would do the trick (slightly thicker is better). I used a router to cut the slots in the table top for adjustment of the fence.
Make sure you drill holes on the side arms for motor ventilation and I suggest always using a vacuum with the saw as it not only clears the saw dust, but keeps the motor cooler – especially on the long cuts. Also remember that for long cuts you need to take it nice and steady and pace yourself to the blade's ability. push it too hard an you will damage something.

You will not break any records cutting with this unit, but the quality and accuracy of the cut will make up for any speed. If you have ever had to cut lots of sheer webs – you will know what I mean. The cut is better than anything I can do with a blade across the grain.

I have started to use this so much, mu band saw has been getting lonely!

At just over $200 it’s a bargain, and remember to get few extra blades - you will eventually be using them (the blades last quite well – I managed to cut all the two sets of stringers and spars for the KA3 with one blade).

If you make any other modifications to your tables – let me know , I will add them here.

Price	$209 (not including material for the extended bench)
Value for money	8.5/10
Performance	9/10
Experience required using	Little to no experience but care is reqquired - like any power tool.
Satisfaction factor	9/10
Approximate installation time	5 Min (not including the TEK)
In Australia available from:	My Tool Store
Manufacturer:	Proxxon