C200-30 Cabinet Table Saw

Upon first look, the C200-30 appears to be a pretty standard entry-level cabinet saw. It has a 2HP 115/230-volt dual voltage motor, a 30" rip capacity, cabinet-mounted trunnions and a 40" x 27" cast iron table—all the standard stuff you look for. But there are a few key points that really make this saw stand out.

The blade guard is one of the most interesting designs we’ve seen. To switch from the full guard to the riving knife (for a non-through cut, for example), you don’t need to remove the throat plate. There’s a little quick-release tab toward the back of the throat the releases the guard or riving knife. Once you get the hang of it, you can switch between the two in just a few seconds. It’s convenient and leaves you without excuses for not having the guard on your saw.

The T-square fence is faced with a two-position aluminum extrusion. Upright, the fence functions just like any other table saw fence. In the low position, you can get the fence close to the blade for thin rips without having to remove the guard. Plus, with the built-in cam lock system for attaching the fence, you can easily attach auxiliary fences for specialized tasks without having to use external clamps.

Dust collection points on the saw are also well thought out, with both above and below the blade collection. The enclosed guard connects via a hose to the 4" below the table dust collection point. The dust collection port is located on the right side of the saw (not the back)—that means you can butt the saw right up to a cabinet or outfeed table without worry about dust hose clearance.

Here’s the kicker: the saw retails for $969. With the features this saw includes, that price is hard to beat. Much like Harvey's bandsaw, it’s an excellent tool for the price. And, if you need more power or capacity, there are two other table saws in the Ambassador line.—andrew Zoellner