Why Adding This Saw Upgrade Changed Everything for Me!

Woodworking crafts, saw, woodworking iNthacity Network January 19, 2025 0 Comments

If you’ve ever struggled with a small job site table saw, you know the pain. Wobbly cuts, dangerous kickbacks, and the constant frustration of trying to rip sheet goods on a fence that’s barely long enough to hold a 2x4. But what if I told you there’s a solution that can transform your compact saw into a precision tool? That’s exactly what happened to me when I discovered the BoW Extender Fence System. This isn’t just another gadget—this is a game-changer. Let me tell you why.

In a recent video by Stumpy Nubs (aka James Hamilton), he shared how the BoW Extender Fence System completely transformed his table saw experience. I was skeptical at first, but after trying it myself, I’m convinced this is one of the best upgrades you can make to a portable saw. Let’s dive into the details.

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I put this on my saw and it changed everything for me!

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Why Small Table Saws Are a Nightmare

Small table saws are convenient for job sites and cramped workshops, but they come with significant drawbacks. Short fences make it hard to guide longer boards, and tiny tables struggle to support sheet goods like plywood. Worst of all, the lack of stability can lead to dangerous kickbacks—a woodworker’s worst nightmare. If you’ve ever had a piece of wood fly back at you, you know how terrifying it can be.

But here’s the kicker: the BoW Extender Fence System solves all these problems. It’s like giving your saw a steroid injection. Suddenly, your small, frustrating saw feels like a full-sized cabinet saw. Let me break it down for you.

What Makes the BoW Extender So Special?

This genius invention was created by Keith Bow and Bill Fidal, two entrepreneurs who are passionate about making woodworking safer and easier. They’re also behind the innovative featherboards with hinging foam fingers that prevent kickbacks like nothing else on the market. But the BoW Extender Fence System takes things to a whole new level.

The Fence: Longer, Straighter, Smarter

The system is built around a thick, durable aluminum extrusion that comes in three lengths: 24 inches, 36 inches, and 46 inches. For most table saws, the 46-inch version is ideal. It attaches to your existing fence with clamps and provides a longer, straighter reference surface for your cuts. This makes ripping long boards or sheet goods a breeze.

Adjustable for Any Job

You can position the fence to guide your workpiece on the infeed side, the outfeed side, or even like a European fence—ending just ahead of the blade to prevent pinching and kickbacks. This is especially useful for cutting crappy construction lumber that tends to warp.

Optional Stock Supports: A Game-Changer

If you thought the fence was impressive, wait until you add the optional stock supports. These attach to the bottom of the extrusion and make your small saw feel like a large cabinet saw. Long, heavy workpieces are much easier to manage, and you no longer need an outfeed table or roller stands to keep boards from tipping over.

For even heavier materials, you can add a 2x4 leg to the outfeed side. It’s like having the stability of a full-sized saw without the bulk. This is the ultimate portable solution for job sites and small workshops.

Safer and More Accurate Joinery

The BoW Extender isn’t just for ripping lumber—it’s a multi-functional tool that improves joinery cuts like dados, grooves, and rabbets. At 5 inches tall, the extrusion supports workpieces on edge or end for advanced cuts like raised panels, tongue-and-groove, and lap joints. This is a huge upgrade for anyone working with joinery on a small saw.

But the real safety boost comes from integrating the fence with other accessories like featherboards. With two featherboards attached to the extrusion, you can keep bowed workpieces held down and prevent them from kicking back. This not only makes your cuts safer but also improves accuracy.

Why This is the Best Upgrade for Your Saw

I’ve used countless accessories and upgrades over the years, but nothing has made as big a difference as the BoW Extender Fence System. It’s like giving your saw a second life. Here’s why I think it’s worth every penny:

Safety: Reduces the risk of kickbacks and keeps your hands away from the blade.
Accuracy: Provides a longer, straighter reference surface for cleaner cuts.
Versatility: Works with table saws and band saws, and supports a wide range of cuts.
Portability: Compact and easy to install, making it perfect for job sites and small shops.

Supporting Great Entrepreneurs

One of the things I love most about the BoW Extender Fence System is that it’s made by small business owners who are passionate about woodworking. Keith Bow and Bill Fidal have already come up with some of the best innovations I’ve seen in years, and I’m excited to see what they’ll create next. By supporting their products, you’re not just upgrading your saw—you’re helping to fuel more great ideas.

Final Thoughts

If you’re tired of struggling with a small table saw, do yourself a favor and check out the BoW Extender Fence System. It’s not just an accessory—it’s a transformation. You’ll wonder how you ever worked without it.

What do you think? Have you tried the BoW Extender yet? What’s your biggest frustration with your table saw? Let’s get the conversation started in the comments below. And don’t forget to join the iNthacity community—apply to become a permanent resident of the "Shining City on the Web" today!

Wait! There's more...check out our gripping short story that continues the journey: The Clang of Metal

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