Contractor Table Saw

SawStop's vaunted safety mechanism can lead to a major repairability problem when the reset process fails. Despite the manufacturer's claims, this is not a simple DIY fix.

• •Reset Failure: Multiple users report that the contractor model is notoriously difficult to reset after the safety brake activates, unlike what marketing suggests.
• •Design Issues: After activation, mechanical problems develop (blade arbor slops up/down by 3/8") rendering the saw unsafe and unusable despite following official reset procedures.
• •Support Problems: Customer service struggles to resolve issues, with one user attempting fixes three separate times without success, effectively turning a $2200+ tool into a non-functional item.

Bottom line: While parts exist, the fundamental design flaw in the contractor model's reset mechanism creates a critical failure point that even support staff admit is problematic compared to cabinet models.

The community is massively split on SawStop's durability — praised as gold standard safety tech, plagued by critical quality control failures that turn $2000+ saws into paperweights.

• •Safety tech works, reset doesn't: One user's blade arbor now slops up and down almost 3/8 inch after brake activation, making saw mechanically unsound and dangerous despite following manual instructions
• •Table flatness lottery: Multiple reports of brand new PCS cabinet saws arriving with main tables so uneven they're outside spec, with customer service arguing this is whithin spec after dozen pictures
• •When it works, it's bulletproof: Users who avoid QC issues report cast iron tops, belt drives, and T-Glide fence deliver precision cuts for years — but that's a big IF given the failure stories

Bottom line: For a premium tool at this price point, the catastrophic reset failures and table flatness issues are dealbreakers — you're gambling $2000+ on whether you get a lifelong companion or an expensive boat anchor

SawStop offers a standard 2-year warranty for new contractor saws, covering manufacturing defects and materials when properly registered and purchased from authorized distributors.

• •Duration: 2 years for new saws, 6 months to 1 year for refurbished models
• •Claim Process: Requires contacting SawStop with proof of purchase for replacement parts
• •Limitations: Doesn't cover misuse, unauthorized repairs, lack of maintenance; warranty voided by unauthorized modifications

Bottom line: The warranty is fair but not exceptional for the $2200+ price point. Some users report frustrations with support during warranty claims, especially when dealing with reset issues after safety feature activation.

SawStop has a strong reputation among woodworkers primarily for its finger-saving safety technology, which creates intense brand loyalty despite premium pricing.

• •Praise: Many users consider it the gold standard for table saw safety with multiple testimonials from users who triggered the safety brake and avoided injury. The Professional Cabinet Saw receives consistent praise for build quality.
• •Complaints: The Contractor model specifically suffers from poor dust collection and an underwhelming fence that often requires immediate upgrades. Some concerning reports of quality control issues with table flatness and difficulties with the brake reset process.
• •Warranty: 2-year coverage for new saws is somewhat limited given the premium price point.

Bottom line: Redditors generally recommend SawStop for the safety technology alone, but advise buyers to either spring for the Professional Cabinet Saw or budget for immediate upgrades to the Contractor model.