Axminster AP305SB Table Saw
The Axminster AP305SB Table Saw is a professional-grade woodworking machine manufactured by Axminster Tools, a UK-based company specializing in woodworking equipment. Designed for professional woodworkers and serious enthusiasts, the AP305SB (and its variant, the AP305SBD) serves as the cornerstone of a well-equipped woodworking workshop.
Often described as "the foundation of a woodworking workshop and generally regarded as the most important machine", this table saw features a robust construction with a finely ground, heavy cast iron table mounted on an all-welded steel base. The saw is positioned within Axminster's Professional range, indicating its suitability for regular use in professional environments rather than occasional hobbyist applications.
The AP305SB is characterized by its substantial 305mm (12-inch) blade diameter, which enables impressive cutting depths of up to 103mm at 90° and 74mm at 45°. The saw is powered by a 2.2kW-2.5kW induction motor (depending on the specific model), providing sufficient power for demanding cutting tasks while maintaining relatively quiet operation.
Designed primarily for small to medium-sized professional workshops, school technology departments, and maintenance facilities, the AP305SB combines precision engineering with practical features that enhance both safety and usability. The saw includes several safety mechanisms such as a mechanical braking system, emergency stop controls, and proper guarding arrangements.
The AP305SB and its variant, the AP305SBD, differ slightly in their configurations and included features, but both maintain the core characteristics that define this professional-grade table saw. Weighing approximately 220kg (AP305SBD) to 303kg (AP305SB), these machines represent substantial workshop investments designed for long-term professional use.
Axminster Tools backs these professional machines with a comprehensive three-year guarantee, underscoring their confidence in the product's durability and performance in professional settings. This table saw is recognized for its versatility, capable of handling various materials from sheet goods to solid timber with precision and consistency.
Product Specifications
Physical Specifications
The Axminster AP305SB Table Saw features a substantial build designed for workshop stability. The AP305SB model weighs approximately 303 kg, while the AP305SBD variant weighs about 220 kg. This significant weight contributes to the machine's stability during operation, reducing vibration and enabling more precise cuts.
The machine features a finely ground cast iron table mounted on an all-welded steel base, providing a durable and stable work surface. The main table dimensions on the AP305SBD measure 620 × 840 mm, while the overall table size with extensions extends to an impressive 1,592 × 1,400 mm.
Standing at a table height of 855 mm, the saw is designed at a comfortable working height for most users. The overall dimensions of the AP305SBD are 1,500 × 193 × 1,200 mm (L × W × H).
A key physical feature of the AP305SBD is its twin extension table configuration, which allows for multiple setup options. These extension tables can be mounted on either side of the saw for a traditional cabinet making style, or both can be positioned on the right-hand side to better handle large workpieces.
Technical Specifications
The saw is powered by a 2.2 kW induction motor in the AP305SB model, while the AP305SBD features a slightly more powerful 2.5 kW motor. Both motors are designed to maintain consistent blade speed under load, ensuring clean, precise cuts even through dense materials.
The saw uses a 305 mm diameter blade with a 30 mm bore size. The blade rotates at 4,000 RPM, providing efficient cutting performance across various materials.
Both models operate on 230V power and require a 16-amp supply. Manufacturers recommend using a C-Type circuit breaker for these machines.
The cutting capacity of these saws is substantial, with the AP305SBD offering a maximum depth of cut of 103 mm at 90° and 74 mm at 45°. The maximum ripping width with the fence is an impressive 1,300 mm, making this saw suitable for processing large sheet materials.
The table includes T-slots measuring 19 mm, compatible with a range of jigs and accessories. The riving knife thickness is 2.5 mm, properly sized to match compatible saw blades.
Regarding noise levels, the AP305SBD has a sound pressure level of 82.1 dB(A) and a sound power level of 98.6 dB(A), which is relatively moderate for a machine of this class, though hearing protection is still recommended during operation.