Tailing out a table saw fence is a critical precision technique that can dramatically improve the accuracy of your woodworking cuts. Misaligned fences can lead to cumulative errors, compromising the quality of your projects. By understanding and implementing precise alignment methods, woodworkers can ensure their cuts are square, parallel, and consistently accurate across multiple workpieces.
What Is Fence Tailing and Why Does It Matter?
Fence tailing refers to the process of ensuring your table saw fence is perfectly square and parallel to the saw blade. This alignment is crucial because even minor deviations can result in:
- Inaccurate cut dimensions
- Uneven edges
- Potential safety risks
- Wasted material
How Precise Do Measurements Need to Be?
| Alignment Tolerance | Impact on Cutting |
|---|---|
| < 0.001 inches | Exceptional precision |
| 1/32 inch | Acceptable for most projects |
| > 1/16 inch | Significant potential for error |
What Tools Do You Need for Tailing Out?
Essential tools for precise fence alignment include:
- Combination square
- Miter gauge
- Feeler gauges
- Calculator
- Scrap wood for testing
- Clamps
How Can You Perform the 5-Cut Method?
The 5-cut method is the most precise technique for tailing out your table saw fence:
Step-by-Step Process
- Select a rectangular piece of material (12″ x 6″)
- Make initial cut against fence
- Rotate material for subsequent cuts
- Complete five total cuts
- Measure final piece for squareness
Pro Tip: This method can achieve accuracy within 0.001 inches, making it ideal for professional-level woodworking.
What Are Alternative Alignment Techniques?
Combination Square Method
- Place combination square in miter track
- Press square against track edge
- Lock fence beside ruler
- Slide square along track
- Check for any movement or deviation
Two-Board Technique
- Cut two boards using fence
- Flip boards and recut
- Compare width measurements
- Adjust fence based on differences
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid?
- Ignoring small alignment errors
- Failing to check fence play
- Not using proper measuring tools
- Rushing the alignment process
How Often Should You Tail Out Your Fence?
Recommended frequency:
– Before starting a new project
– After moving or adjusting saw
– Quarterly for regular woodworkers
– Annually for occasional users
What Are the Potential Consequences of Misalignment?
| Misalignment Impact | Potential Outcome |
|---|---|
| Minor deviation | Slight cut inaccuracy |
| Moderate error | Compromised joint fit |
| Significant misalignment | Unusable workpiece |
Conclusion
Tailing out your table saw fence is not just a technical exercise—it’s an investment in the quality of your woodworking. By dedicating time to precise alignment, you’ll achieve more professional results and reduce material waste.