Saw horses are one of the most versatile and useful tools to have around for DIY and construction projects. They provide a stable platform to cut wood, act as workbenches, and help support materials during projects. With many brands and models available, it can be difficult to determine which saw horse is the best choice for your needs.
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What are the main features to look for in a saw horse?
When evaluating the best saw horse brand and model for your projects, there are a few key features to consider:
- Strength and stability – Look for a sturdy metal or heavy-duty plastic frame that can safely hold significant weight without buckling. Strong cross-bracing and wide legs also improve stability.
- Adjustable height – Models with adjustable legs allow you to set the saw horse at your ideal working height for comfort and efficiency.
- Folding design – Folding saw horses enable compact storage and easy transport to job sites.
- Tabletop – Some models include a built-in tabletop work surface for convenience.
- Clamps – Clamps or vises on the frame securely grip wood in place for safer cutting.
Prioritizing strength, stability, and ease of use will ensure the saw horse is up to the demanding projects you need it for.
Top Saw Horse Brands
When researching the highest quality and best value saw horse options, these top brands consistently rise to the top:
DeWalt
Known for professional-grade power tools and equipment, DeWalt also produces heavy-duty saw horses perfect for rugged use. Their aluminum and steel frames provide exceptional strength to handle over 1000 lbs per saw horse. Integrated clamps, anti-slip feet, and tool trays make these useful additions to any workspace.
Worx
Worx saw horses feature lightweight but very stable steel frames. Their innovative folding design allows the legs to pack away inside the frame for compact storage in just seconds. Versatile Worx models work as saw horses, workbenches, sawhorses, and more.
ToughBuilt
Known for making innovative jobsite tools, ToughBuilt offers heavy duty saw horses made from steel. Their saw horses fold down for storage but provide excellent strength when in use. Helpful features like quick clamps, ruler markings, and tool holders make these great multi-use additions.
Kobalt
For affordably priced but reliable saw horses, Kobalt is a leader. Their steel and plastic models withstand heavy weights yet fold up for convenient transport and storage. Kobalt saw horses often include helpful extras like built-in power strips, storage trays, carry handles, and more.
Key Considerations When Choosing Saw Horses
With an overview of top brands, focus on these key factors as you evaluate the best saw horse options for your workspace and projects:
Strength and Durability
The frame and legs should be made of steel, heavy-duty aluminum, or reinforced polymers able to handle heavy static and dynamic loading without buckling. Cross braces add lateral stability. Durable non-slip feet also improve stability.
Weight Capacity
Consider the kinds of materials and maximum weights you need to support. Construction-grade saw horses typically hold 800-1000+ lbs per stand. Lighter models around 500 lbs capacity suit lighter DIY tasks.
Adjustable Height
If working at varied heights, choose saw horses with adjustable legs able to extend from about 18 up to 30 inches tall or more. Quick release pins allow easy height changes.
Portability
Folding saw horses collapse down for easy transport to job sites and compact storage in vehicles, sheds, or garages. Carry handles enable grabbing and going. Low weights under 20 lbs also improve mobility.
Work Surface
A built-in tabletop or work surface enables convenient use as a desk or workbench. Non-slip surfaces provide a stable platform during tasks. Look for extended side tables to hold tools and supplies within reach.
Clamps and Vises
Integrated quick clamps, vises, or v-jaws make it simple to securely grip lumber, piping, and other materials for safer, more accurate cuts.
Price
While pro-grade saw horses cost more for their extreme durability, more budget-friendly options around $50 per pair can still be adequate for home DIY use.
Best Saw Horses for the Money
Balancing key features, versatility, durability, and value, these are my top recommendations for the best saw horses for the money across budgets:
Best Overall: DeWalt DWST17000 Aluminum Heavy Duty Sawhorse
The DeWalt aluminum saw horse is my top overall pick for its immense strength, versatile benefits, and rugged construction built to last. With a 1000 lb weight capacity and extra stability from angled aluminum legs and cross bracing, it provides rock-solid support for heavy-duty tasks.
I appreciate how its 27.75 inch height adjusts via multiple positions on the legs. Integrated clamps and extension side tables further extend its functionality for woodworking, DIY repairs, and other projects. Despite its burly construction, the saw horse still weighs only 14 lbs for easy portability. For a pro-grade versatile workhorse, the DeWalt heavy duty saw horse is hard to beat.
Best Budget: Kobalt Saws Ready Steel Sawhorses
For its excellent capabilities at a wallet-friendly price, the Kobalt Saws Ready saw horse is my top budget recommendation. Constructed with sturdy steel, it still folds down quickly for storage and transportation.
Each saw horse can support up to 500 lbs of material, perfect for typical DIY tasks. The adjustable height legs, carry handles, and lightweight frame enhance convenience. Helpful extras like an integrated power strip for charging tools and a lower storage tray add even more utility for projects. Overall, the Kobalt steel horses offer tremendous value.
Best Folding: Worx WX068 Sawhorse with Clamps
The innovative folding design of the Worx WX068 makes it my pick for the best collapsible saw horse option. When not in use, the steel legs store conveniently within the durable plastic frame.
Unfolded, the Worx saw horse provides excellent strength up to 500 lbs per stand. Built-in quick clamps tightly secure materials in place. An extended lower tray is great for holding tools close by as you work. Weighing under 10 lbs each, these highly portable saw horses pack away neatly when work is done.
Best Plastic: ToughBuilt TB-C800 Folding Sawhorse
For a plastic saw horse able to compete with metal models, the ToughBuilt TB-C800 is a top performer. The reinforced polymer frame rivals steel for durability yet weighs just 10 lbs for easy handling.
Anti-slip rubber caps improve stability while protecting floors. When collapsed, the legs lock securely in place with laoud “snap” sound. Clamps, V-jaws, and rulers make material positioning easier during projects. For a plastic saw horse able to handle 500 lbs, the ToughBuilt model is a great choice.
Best Workbench: Keter Folding Compact Workbench Sawhorse
If seeking a saw horse able to double as a versatile workbench, the Keter Folding Compact Workbench Sawhorse is an excellent option. Its heavy-duty polymer frame supports up to 1000 lbs when in use but folds down for storage.
The built-in worktable provides a smooth and level surface for tasks. Side tables extend the work space and provide storage for tools. Adjustable rubber feet ensure stability on uneven ground. Durable and easy to transport, this Keter workbench saw horse maximizes functionality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are more expensive saw horses worth it?
For frequent use with heavy materials, investing in high-end saw horses brings valuable benefits. The extreme durability and strength support years of reliable use. Helpful extras like clamps, vises, work surfaces, and adjustable heights also improve workflow. For occasional home projects, budget-friendly models work fine.
What weight can saw horses hold?
Basic saw horses hold 300-500 lbs per stand. Heavy duty models for construction provide 800-1000+ lbs of weight capacity. Know your needs, but higher is better for versatility.
How do you make saw horses more stable?
Cross braces, non-slip feet, and wide leg bases all improve stability. Place stands on flat ground. Tie stands together or brace the legs with boards. Avoid jerky motions that can unbalance the load.
Do you need two saw horses?
For material support and safety, use saw horses in pairs. This allows even weight distribution and prevents tipping. Working on just one stand risks collapse from imbalance.
How do you secure wood to saw horses?
Look for saw horses with built-in clamps, vises, or v-jaws to grip material. You can also use ratchet straps, bungee cords, or clamps to secure boards and other items to the legs or frame. Avoid relying only on gravity to hold items in place.
Conclusion
With their versatility, strength, and helpful features, quality saw horses are invaluable assets for construction, woodworking, and home improvement projects. Models from trusted brands like DeWalt, Worx, ToughBuilt, and Kobalt consistently provide the right blend of durability, functionality, and value.
Focus on stability, weight capacity, work surfaces, and ease of use to choose the best saw horse for your workspace and needs. Reliable saw horses pay dividends every time you need an extra hand managing materials and tools during demanding DIY tasks. With my top recommendations and advice, you can find the ideal saw horses to tackle projects efficiently and safely.