Hitachi C10RA2 10-Inch Portable Table Saw with Metal Stand

The C10RA2 10" Table Saw is engineered for rip-sawing and cross-cutting of ordinary wood, hardwood, plywood, composite wood materials, and plastics. The C10RA2 comes equipped with a stand

The Hitachi 10-inch table saw is a lightweight portable that packs plenty of power and prices in the midrange of portable table saws. We've come to think of a good-quality rip fence as perhaps the most important feature of any table saw, and the Hitachi has a nicely finished, easily adjusted fence that feels sturdy and well mounted. The cam-lock handle is easy to operate and holds the fence firmly in place. The bevel adjustment is simply designed and operates smoothly. The handle pulls out to disengage and move the blade in large increments, then pushes back in for crank-turn microadjustments. However, we found a flaw with the Hitachi's poorly designed bevel lock. This rather small lever is mounted alongside the crank handle. As the blade tilts, the lever moves with it. The problem comes when the blade is tilted to a full 45-degree angle: in that position, the lever is tucked up close under the table and is very hard to tighten. This drawback probably isn't enough to dissuade true Hitachi loyals, who appreciate the power and durability of the famous Hitachi motor, but an improvement here would make this decent and reliable saw a top contender. The Hitachi doesn't feature the extendable fence for ripping four-by-eight panel material like the Bosch and DeWalt saws, but at $150 less than those tools, it's a solid and affordable performer. --Mark McDonald