The answer to that question is, "It depends." What are you going to use the saw for? What is your skill level? What is your budget? Make no mistake, the DEWALT DW745 is a good table saw, but you need to answer these questions to determine if it will work for you.
Let's look at the DW745 itself. Here are some of its features:
* 15 amp, high torque motor
* 3 1/8 inch maximum cut depth
* 16 inches of rip
* Miter gauge for 0 to 45 degree cuts
* Rack and pinion fence rails
This saw has plenty of power to rip hardwoods and treated lumber. Users report being able to easily rip 8 foot lengths of 2x8 red cedar and 2 inch thick pieces of cherry. It easily rips hardwood or laminate flooring, laminate counter tops, trim molding, and structural lumber.
Having the power to cut various types of lumber doesn't mean much if the cuts aren't accurate. The fence on the buy DEWALT DW745 ensures that all cuts will be dead accurate. Users almost universally praise this fence. It is easy to set up, easy to adjust, and remains true, unlike some cheaper fences that lose their alignment with use.
The saw also gets very high marks for its transportability. It weighs just 45 pounds, so it is easy to move about. You can toss it in the bed of your truck, put it in the trunk of your car, or, if you are a space-limited hobbyist, you can use it in your garage and then store it out of the way so you can get your car back in once you've finished your project for the day. Some contractors have even reported using it on scaffolding or in a tub surround during a bathroom remodel. Even though it isn't terribly heavy, it doesn't move around when in use. The rubber feet give it the stability expected in a much larger, heavier saw.
This saw does have a drawback. The miter gauge is inadequate. If you never make miter cuts, then this won't be an issue. If you routinely cut miters, then you would probably be wise to purchase an accurate after-market miter gauge.
Who would the DEWALT DW745 be the right saw for? If you are a contractor who moves from jobsite to jobsite and moves often on the same site, but you still demand accurate, smooth cutting of a variety of materials, this saw is right for you.
If you are a serious hobbyist but you don't need a contractor saw or cabinet saw, this may be the saw for you. If your workshop has limited space or you need to move the saw around in your shop, give this saw a look. If you are a professional woodworker, however, this may not be what you need.
Finally, whether you are a contractor or hobbyist and you are on a tight budget, this saw is definitely worth considering. The DEWALT DW745 delivers performance close to saws costing up to five times as much. It is inexpensive, but not cheap in the sense that it is a very high quality saw for the money. When all things are considered, you could do much worse than this saw for your woodworking needs.
