SawStop JSS-MCA Table Saw Review [2023 Update]

Features

Easy Setup and Mobility for Varying Terrains

The stand functions similarly to a mobile cart. You can roll it around like a dolly. It’s literally that easy.

One Turn Blade Elevation

Raise and lower the saw blade in a smooth, single turn. No cranking necessary; as one full revolution brings the blade to its maximum height.

Quick Tilt and Precise Controls

The blade tilts in one-degree increments and you can also fine tune the tilt to infinity.

Smooth T-Glide Fence with Ergolock

This high-quality apparatus slides smoothly, self-squares, and locks in firmly. While other companies skimp here, SawStop excels. This top-notch fence supports your stock in all positions. It also locks in place to ensure the most accurate cuts.

Crystal Clear Measurements

The measurements are also clear and easy to read with black and red writing and ticks on a bright white background.

Large Rip Capacity

With a 25.5” rip capacity, this machine can accommodate a wide variety of cuts.

Precision Cut Capability

This versatile machine is powerful enough to handle large lumber and precise enough to do finer cuts. Each and every cut is easily repeatable for efficient jobsite work.

Tool-Free Handling

Unlike other models that require you to use tools to remove or replace the inserts and guards, the SawStop allows you to do it easily with your bare hands. Just slide off the throat plate and flip a switch to take on and off your riving knife.

Onboard Storage

This compartment and fence holster stows your accessories away for optimum organization and easy access. Unlike other saws that have a series of different spots to house the items, the SawStop has a slide out storage compartment that flips open. It’s also large enough to store a couple of spare parts.

Patented Blade Braking Technology for Unprecedented Safety

The flesh detection system can stop the blade in 5 milliseconds. When presented with a hotdog, the recedes into the table smoothly and instantly. A constant digital signal processor is on the lookout for any material changes, and if it detects a wayward finger, it triggers a heavy-duty spring to be released, pushing an aluminum brake into the spinning blade. It goes from 4,000 RPMS to a dead stop instantaneously.

In the hotdog test, there wasn’t even have a visible cut. To get back up and running, just replace the brake and blade. This can be done in about five minutes. Instead of losing a finger (or worse), the user will sustain a minor cut at most.

Near Perfect Out of the Box Accuracy

Although most professionals calibrate their machines before use, if you’re in a hurry, you can expect a near perfect reading right out of the box.

Optional Accessories

You can optionally add a Dust Collection Guard to help shape the blade turbulence and remove dust from your workspace.

Pros

• World-class safety with the patented blade braking technological system
• High-quality materials
• 1 Turn Elevation saves time
• Quicktilt features with infinite controls for improved accuracy
• Ability to swap out accessories without tools
• Built-in storage compartment for accessories
• Versatile enough for worksite construction or finer projects
• Minimal vibration, noise, and heat build-up
• Dado capability, 8-inch diameter
• Easy adjustments
• No blade wobble
• Sturdy, folding stand with wheels
• Longer cord length (9.666 feet as opposed to the industry standard of 6 feet)

Cons

• Less rip capacity than some other models in its class, but still better than most
• Warranty is short given the expense of this machine
• No hard stop on the fine adjustment, so it can be thrown off easily
• Miter slots lack precision
• Inferior miter gauge
• Some users find it to be too heavy

Verdict

It’s a bit of a buzzkill to talk about amputations, but the reality is that in the US there are about 10 amputations a day due to table saw accidents (according to the Consumer Products Safety Commission). No matter how safe you think you are and regardless of the precautions you take, accidents can happen, and when debating the higher price of this saw, you’ll want to take into account the risk of losing a digit (or your mental health or income-earning capabilities) compared to the additional cost involved with this purchase.

If you have employees or family members who will also be using your table saw, the stakes become higher, and at this point, it seems like a logical and prudent decision to choose a table saw that has the most advanced safety features possible. In cases like these, we highly recommend the SawStop.

This saw also provides peace of mind for people (and their loved ones) who have had an accident or a close call. Being able to cut safely with confidence is priceless.

In addition to the innovative safety features, this is a professional-grade saw. From the smooth controls to the attention to every detail, this saw is best in class for the portable category. It’s worth noting that for this price, you could technically get a decent cast iron saw. However, if you’re short on space or need a portable option, the SawStop is the best quality choice.