When you buy a table saw, you’ll notice that the blade can tilt either left or right for bevel cuts. Which one is better? Here’s what you need to know:

1. Personal Preference vs. Safety

The choice often comes down to personal preference and what you’re used to. Many woodworkers stick with the style they learned on.
However, from a safety and performance standpoint, most modern setups favor left-tilting saws.

2. Why Left-Tilting Is Safer

On a left-tilting saw, the blade tilts away from the fence when the fence is on the right side of the table (which is the most common position).
This matters because:

• Tilting away from the fence reduces the chance of pinching or binding the workpiece during bevel cuts.
• Pinching can cause kickback, where the material is thrown back toward the operator—a major safety hazard.

Right-tilting saws tilt toward the fence, which increases the risk of binding and kickback during bevel cuts.

3. Performance Advantages of Left-Tilting

• Cleaner bevel cuts: The off-cut falls away from the blade and fence, making cuts more stable.
• Easier handling of sheet goods: Less interference from off-cuts during bevel cuts.

4. Why Right-Tilting Saws Still Exist

Right-tilting saws were once more common and are still preferred by some users who:

• Are accustomed to them
• Use jigs or specialty setups that rely on the blade tilting toward the fence

5. Modern Recommendation

Most manufacturers now make left-tilting saws the standard because they’re safer and easier to use for bevel cuts. For hobbyists and small shops, a left-tilting saw is usually the best choice.

Key Takeaway

Both styles work, but left-tilting saws are generally safer and more practical for modern woodworking.