Table saw taper jig is one of the most instrumental parts in woodworking. When you have furniture projects that require a fine finish and need tapered legs, you will need the taper jigs. There are a number of ways through which you can make tapered cuts, but using the table saw has proved to be the easiest and most accurate method.
When you have a high-quality tapering jig, you can adjust the tapered cuts to any angle easily. This will go about 15 degrees and allows you to make consistent rip angles.
To get a reliable taper jig, you have the option of making one or buying from the stores. If you choose to buy one, you will find a wide range of models and brands. This can make it quite confusing for you and you may not have the capacity to choose the ideal one. However, you do not have to worry, as you have come to the right place. I will not only help you choose a good taper jig but also show you how to use it and review some of the best models on the market.
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Why Saw Taper Jig and Its Benefit:
The table saw has become a popular tool due to the fact that it is quite versatile and can make a number of cuts. This is a powerful tool that will not give you speed, but also accuracy when making cuts. To take full advantage of the table saw and increase the performance, you should find the best table saw taper jig. A tapering jig is an accessory that will come in handy and allow to make cuts on your workpiece, accurately.
With this tool, you will be able to make very deep cuts that are parallel to the grain. There are benefits that are associated with the tapering jig as this is can be used to create table legs. You are able to make cuts on both sides of the leg that faces the inside part of the table.
The jig allows you to customize your taper cuts and as a result, you will make unique cuts. The other benefit is that you can make angled rip cuts, using the taper jig. This tool is simple to use and enhances your safety while in use. Before making any attempts to use the jig, it is important to understand how it works with your table saw.
Best Table Saw Taper Jig To Buy In 2022
If you are looking to improve the quality of your woodwork and make clean finishes on your furniture, you need a tapering jig. There are hundreds of jigs out there, which may be overwhelming for you. I have narrowed down to the top rated table saw taper jigs. Here are my top picks.
| Picture | Product Name | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
![POWERTEC 71035 Table Saw Taper Jig](https://bestsawreviews.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/POWERTEC-71035-Table-Saw-Taper-Jig.jpg") | POWERTEC 71035 Table Saw Taper Jig | 1.7 pounds | |
 | Fulton Table Saw Taper Jig | 2.15 pounds | |
![Big Horn 19066 Taper Jig](https://bestsawreviews.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Big-Horn-19066-Taper-Jig.jpg") | Big Horn 19066 Taper Jig | 2 pounds | |
 | WoodRiver Taper Jig | 1.82 pounds |
1. POWERTEC 71035 Table Saw Taper Jig
The POWERTEC 71035 is a taper jig that has been designed to make it easier for you to carry out cutting tasks. Whether you are a woodworker or a hobbyist this tapering jig will be quite useful for you.
If you have projects that required angled cuts that cannot be achieved using the chop saw or the miter saw, then this jig will serve your needs in the best manner possible. The metal hinge that is included in this tool is unbreakable and the main purpose is for it to make the cutting tasks easy and accurate.
Powertec Taper Jig Core Features
- The weight of the POWERTEC 71035 table saw taper jig is 2 pounds, which is quite light to use with the table saw.
- It has sturdy extruded guide bars that are made of high-grade aluminum. This contributes to the great strength and longevity of this jig.
- There is a graduate scale that allows you to make measurements in inches per foot of taper and degrees.
- The backside stop will securely hold the workpiece in place.
- You can cut tapers of up to 15 degrees and 3 inches per foot, accurately with this taper jig.
POWERTEC 71035 table saw taper jig is quite versatile and you do not have to worry about which hand you use. This comes with both left-hand and right-hand operation and as such, you can use it in your workshop, with your crew. This is also built to last as it has extruded guide bars that are made of aluminum. This contributes to the sturdiness of the tapering jig and also makes it durable. The graduated scale allows making measurements in degrees and feet. You can measure up to 15 degrees or 3 inches per foot taper cuts, using the scale.
One of the worries for most people when using tapering jigs is being able to hold the workpiece in place. The POWERTEC 71035 comes with a stop on the backside that plays the vital role of holding the stock, securely in place, during the tapering process. There is an advantage of this jig being fully adjustable and as such, you can make a wide range of taper cuts. The fact that it weighs only 2 pounds makes it easier to handle and control it for your tapers. It is 24 inches long and this is a great length for most taper cuts that are needed.
2. Fulton Table Saw Taper Jig
Are you considering taking your woodworking projects to a new level? Well, the taper jig would be a good accessory to consider for your table saw. The Fulton taper jig is one of the best models on the market and it can serve your needs in the best way possible.
If you are looking for ways to make slight angled cuts, then you will need to consider having this jig. The truth of the matter is, there are certain angular cuts that cannot be made using miter saws or chop saws. This is where the taper jig comes into play as it makes the work of making taper cuts much easier.
Fulton Taper Jig Core Features
- You will be able to use the Fulton taper jig with a rip fence to be able to cut tapers of up to 15 degrees.
- The aluminum construction is quite useful as it gives you the sturdiness and the durability that you want for woodworking tools.
- There a backside stop that will hold your workpiece in place when you are cutting the tapers.
- It comes with a built-in scale that is completely adjustable and will allow you to make a 3-inch taper per foot.
- The overall length of this taper jig is 24 inches and there is an option to use it either on the left or right-hand side.
The solid construction of this model is quite impressive as it is made of industrial-grade aluminum. This is a sure guarantee that the taper jig is sturdy and also is built to last. It is quite diverse and most users have found pleasure working with this jig. There is an advantage that it can be assembled and operated from both the left and right sides. This gives you great convenience if you work with several people, who use different hands. Assembling and the general use of this tapering jig is quite easy.
The Fulton taper jig has an overall length of 24 inches and this makes it ideal for most tapered cuts. There is a built-in scale that is designed to make it easier for you to take measurements. As a matter of fact, you can make measurements of a taper that is 3 inches per foot and up to 15 degrees. It is fully adjustable, giving you the convenience of cutting tapers in the angle that you chose. It works with the rip fence to give you accurate taper cuts.
3. Big Horn 19066 Taper Jig
When buying a tool, you need to consider the construction so as to determine its durability. The Big Horn 19066 taper jig will be an ideal tool to get if you make angle cuts using the table saw. It is made of aluminum and is rated among the top professional quality taper jigs that you will come across. The metal hinge on this jig is so strong that it cannot break when you are using it.
This is one model that has enhanced functionality as it comes with T-slotted sides that give you an adjustable work stop. The graduated scale has the capacity to measure up to 15 degrees of taper or 3 inches per foot.
Big Horn Taper Jig Core Features
- The Big Horn 19066 taper jig is a durable and strong model as it is made from a high-grade aluminum channel.
- The reversible operation of the right and left hand is another convenient feature as you can assemble it on the side that you are comfortable with.
- There is a metal hinge that is strong enough and cannot break and comes with grooved outer edges, to enhance its sturdiness,
- The built-in graduate scale will give you accurate measurements and allows you to measure up to 15 degrees or 3 inches per taper foot.
- It has an ideal weight of 2 pounds and the overall length is 24 inches.
The uniqueness of this jig is the fact that you can assemble it on either the left or right-hand side. The reversible design, to give you operation for both sides is a great convenience as it can be used by different people, irrespective of the hand that they use. The overall length of this taper jig is 24 inches long, which accommodates most of the tapers that you may wish to cut. It is a stable model and you will love using it. The grooved outer edges are also instrumental in the overall design of the Big Horn 19066 taper jig.
If you want to make taper cuts on a radial arm saw or the table saw, which are accurate, then this is the tapering jig that you should consider buying. The lightweight of 2 pounds is also worth noting as it takes to handle and control this jig. When you have a workpiece that needs to be tapered, this jig has the right mechanism to slide with the fence, while holding the stock in place. This is certainly, a tool that is worth having as it will transform the quality of the cuts that you make.
4. WoodRiver Taper Jig
When making cuts using the table saw, accuracy and speed are some of the benefits that you will get. If you are in the business of making furniture, your tables and chairs will need tapered legs. Conventionally, these are cuts that were made by hand, which affected the accuracy and also took too much time.
The WoodRiver Taper Jig comes to solve this problem as you will be able to make the tapered cuts in a short while and in total accuracy. This is an essential accessory of the table saw and will add to the functionality of your saw.
WoodRiver Table Saw Taper Jig Core Features
- The WoodRiver Taper Jig is a high-quality tool that is made of aluminum and has guide bars that are also made of aluminum.
- The guide bars on this taper jig are quite useful as it comes with a push handle that is 2 5/8 inches, giving you great control.
- You can make accurate tapers that are up to 15 degrees or 3 inches per foot of a taper.
- There is a graduated scale that is part of this taper jig and has the ability to measure in degrees as well as inches per foot of taper.
- Suitable for both left and right-hand operations
One thing that stands out with the WoodRiver Taper Jig is the fact that it can help you cut accurate tapers of up to 3 inches per foot or up to 15 degrees. This is made possible by the graduated scale that has been integrated as part of the features. The scale will allow you to make accurate measurements in inches per foot of the taper or in degrees. This is the best table saw taper jig in that it is easy to assemble and use it. You will have an easy time cutting the tapers that you need for your project.
The guide bars are made of aluminum, which is quite strong and also light. In addition to this, the guide bars come with 2 5/8 inches push handle, with an ergonomic design. With this handle, you will be able to slide the taper jig conveniently as you make your cuts. There is also an advantage of the fact that you can use it on either right or the left side. Most professional woodworkers are happy with the fact that this taper jig has all the features that you would want to be able to cut accurate tapers.
How to Choose the Perfect Taper Jig?
There are so many commercial tapering jigs that are on the market and you may be overwhelmed when it comes to making a choice. If you are in search of the best table saw taper jig, for the money, it is best to consider other factors besides the brand itself. Here are some of the pointers that I feel would be useful in helping you get a tapering jig that will serve your needs effectively.
Construction
The construction of the taper jig should be one of the key considerations that you need to bear in mind in your shopping process. You need to look for a sturdy and durable jig, which is built to last. The models that are made of aluminum are known to be quite strong and last for quite a long time. With the aluminum jigs, you do not have to worry about corrosion and rust and this is a great deal. The construction of the tapering jig will determine its effectiveness.
Ease of Use
You should not go for a model that takes too much time to assemble. You will want a table saw taper jig that is easy to use. Find a model that is compatible with the table saw so that you can start making tapering cuts easily. Reading reviews is one of the best ways to understand if the particular model is easy to use or not. The essence of your tapering jig should be to make it easier to make tapered cuts, fast and accurately.
Dimensions and Weight
You cannot ignore the size of the jig as you may end up with one that is too small or too big for your table saw. Each tapering jig has specific dimensions and you need to be sure that these will favor your cuts. In addition to the dimensions, you should factor in the weight of the tool. You do not want a very heavy model that becomes too much of a burden to operate. Get the ideal size and weight of the taper jig and you will be good to go. This will help in controlling the tool for the angled cuts.
Design
Look at the design of the model that you want to buy so that you can find one that is ideal for your needs. You need to consider the handle and the grip that it has. The other bit that you need to consider is if it is meant for right or left-handed use. There are models that have been designed in such a manner that they will work for both left and right-handers.
Price
Finally, the last essential bit is the price range. While there are so many models, with similar features, you need to compare the prices for different models. Narrow down to the specific ones that are within your price range and check what each has to offer. This will help you pick the best taper jig for the money.
How to Use a Taper Jig on a Table Saw?
The fundamental function of the table saw taper jig is to facilitate the cutting of tapers. This is will be achieved by the workpiece being held at a particular angle as the stock goes through the blade. This is why in most cases, you will notice that the taper jigs come with a locking mechanism and this allows you to make quick and easy taper cuts.
The fact that the jigs are able to hold the wood at a specific angle, means that you can be able to make repeated cuts that are accurate, as the position does not change. This is what makes it ideal for cutting tapers for furniture as they will be identical. Before learning how to use a taper jig on a table saw, it is essential to have a basic understanding of how common accessories work on your saw. For instance the use of the miter gauge or the rip fence.
- Using Miter Gauge:
The miter gauge can be used as it is well-calibrated and usually accurate within 1 degree. This is one of the most convenient techniques for most people as it comes with total accuracy. If you have never used the taper jig, before, you should make use of the miter gauge for the setup process. What you need to do, is set your miter gauge at the specific angle that you intend to make the cut to the tapers and then lock it into position.
With the miter gauge, having been set at an accurate angle, this becomes the reference in setting up the angle of the taper jig. As soon as you set the angle on the workpiece and the taper jig, you should lock it down so as to avoid any movements during the cutting process. Making in-angled cuts can be a challenge, but as long as you have the measurements locked in place, you will do this fast and easily.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: How can I attach the taper jig to the table saw?
A: The taper jig does not attach to the table saw at all. This works independently, holding the workpiece in place and then slide it against the fence to make your tapered cuts.
Q: How long is a tapering jig?
A: As you can imagine, there are so many different brands and models of the taper jigs for the table saw. This means that they will have varied dimensions, but on average a standard taper jig will be 24 inches long.
Q: Can use the taper jig to taper a 4 x 4 table leg, with a table saw?
A: This highly depends on the specific model that you have. However, as long as the blade is large enough to handle the 4-inch cut, the jig should work.
Q: Is it possible to make small angles with the taper jig?
A: In most cases, the taper jig will be able to measure angles from 0 to 15 degrees and as such, you should be able to make small angles without a problem.
Q: What size of the board can you cut with a taper jig?
A: This depends on the overall length of the jig. If you have the 24-inch jig, you can be able to cut any length, with the limitations being the weight of the board, working space, and strength.
Final Recommendation
Cutting on tapers is one of the finishing processes in woodwork. If you are looking for a fine finish in making furniture, then you need to invest in a high-quality taper jig. This is will allow you to make angled cuts that are slanted. This is useful when you need to make cuts for table and chairs legs. The taper jig will hold the workpiece at an angle to the blade and this can allow you to make consistent cuts that are similar.
From the models that I have reviewed in this guide, I recommend the POWERTEC 71035 Table Saw Taper Jig. This will give you quality tapered cuts and improve your work. If this guide is useful, please share it around to help others learn about the table saw taper jig and get the best one. All the best in your shopping process.
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