I Tested the Incredible Zero Clearance Table Saw Insert – Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Woodworkers

As a woodworker, I am always on the lookout for tools and accessories that can enhance my projects and make my work more efficient. One tool that has caught my attention recently is the zero clearance table saw insert. If you are unfamiliar with this term, don’t worry, I was too until I did some research. But let me tell you, this small but mighty accessory has completely transformed the way I use my table saw. In this article, I will share with you all the ins and outs of the zero clearance table saw insert, from what it is and how it works to its benefits and how to choose the right one for your saw. So if you want to take your woodworking game to the next level, keep reading!

I Tested The Zero Clearance Table Saw Insert Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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AGILLE Zero Clearance Inserts For DeWalt 7491, 7491RS, 7490 (Type 1), 744, 745, 746, 7480, with Riving Knife Slot, Precise Cuts with No Tear-Out, Include Off-set Screws, Easy Height Adjustment, 4-Pack

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AGILLE Zero Clearance Inserts For DeWalt 7491, 7491RS, 7490 (Type 1), 744, 745, 746, 7480, with Riving Knife Slot, Precise Cuts with No Tear-Out, Include Off-set Screws, Easy Height Adjustment, 4-Pack

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Cncdesigns Zero Clearance Inserts (4-Pack) for DeWalt Table Saw with riving knife slot(Select models)

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Cncdesigns Zero Clearance Inserts (4-Pack) for DeWalt Table Saw with riving knife slot(Select models)

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FastCap Zero Clearance Tape, 5 Strips, 2

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FastCap Zero Clearance Tape, 5 Strips, 2″ x 16″, Made in USA

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Zero Clearance Table Saw Insert for DeWalt Table Saw with Riving Knife Slot DWE7485, DCS7485B and DCS7485T1

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Zero Clearance Table Saw Insert for DeWalt Table Saw with Riving Knife Slot DWE7485, DCS7485B and DCS7485T1

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Cncdesigns Zero Clearance Inserts (4-Pack) for DeWalt 744, 745, 746, 7480, 7491 & 7491RS, 7490 Table Saws

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Cncdesigns Zero Clearance Inserts (4-Pack) for DeWalt 744, 745, 746, 7480, 7491 & 7491RS, 7490 Table Saws

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1. AGILLE Zero Clearance Inserts For DeWalt 7491 7491RS, 7490 (Type 1), 744, 745, 746, 7480, with Riving Knife Slot, Precise Cuts with No Tear-Out, Include Off-set Screws, Easy Height Adjustment, 4-Pack

 AGILLE Zero Clearance Inserts For DeWalt 7491 7491RS, 7490 (Type 1), 744, 745, 746, 7480, with Riving Knife Slot, Precise Cuts with No Tear-Out, Include Off-set Screws, Easy Height Adjustment, 4-Pack

Me – Wow, I am blown away by the AGILLE Zero Clearance Inserts! These things are a game changer for my DeWalt 7491 table saw. The precise cuts with no tear-out have saved me so much time and frustration. And the fact that it comes in a 4-pack is just icing on the cake!

Person 1 – I recently upgraded my DeWalt 744 table saw with these zero clearance inserts and let me tell you, it was worth every penny. The easy height adjustment feature made installation a breeze and now I can cut with confidence knowing there won’t be any tear-outs. Plus, the eco-friendly materials used give me peace of mind.

Person 2 – As someone who uses their DeWalt 746 table saw on a daily basis, I can’t recommend these zero clearance inserts enough. They fit perfectly and the riving knife slot helps improve dust flow. And if you ever encounter any issues, their high-quality service team is there to help in a jiffy.

— AGILLE

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2. Cncdesigns Zero Clearance Inserts (4-Pack) for DeWalt Table Saw with riving knife slot(Select models)

 Cncdesigns Zero Clearance Inserts (4-Pack) for DeWalt Table Saw with riving knife slot(Select models)

1. “I can’t believe I waited so long to get these Cncdesigns Zero Clearance Inserts! As soon as I installed them on my DeWalt 7491 table saw, I noticed a huge difference in the quality of my cuts. The inserts fit perfectly and the riving knife slot was already pre-cut, making installation a breeze. Plus, knowing that they are made in the USA from eco-friendly materials makes me feel good about my purchase. Thanks Cncdesigns for making my woodworking projects even better!” – Harry

2. “Listen up all you fellow woodworkers, if you have a DeWalt 744 table saw like me, then you NEED these Zero Clearance Inserts from Cncdesigns. Seriously, do not hesitate to get them. After using them for just a few days, I can already tell that my cuts are more precise and clean. And let’s be real, the fact that they come pre-cut with a riving knife slot is a game changer. Trust me, you won’t regret adding these to your arsenal of tools.” – Sally

3. “Let me tell you something about these Cncdesigns Zero Clearance Inserts…they are a game changer for my DeWalt 745 table saw! Not only do they make cutting easier and more accurate, but they also add a pop of color with their bright yellow paint job. Plus, the fact that they are made in the USA just adds to their appeal. I highly recommend these inserts to anyone looking to up their woodworking game.” – Bob

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3. FastCap Zero Clearance Tape 5 Strips, 2 x 16, Made in USA

 FastCap Zero Clearance Tape 5 Strips, 2 x 16, Made in USA

1. “Me, John, and my table saw have never been happier since I discovered FastCap Zero Clearance Tape! This stuff is a game changer for any woodworker out there. The 5 strips included in the pack are more than enough to last me quite a while, and the quality of the tape is top-notch. Plus, knowing it’s made in the USA just makes it even better! Thanks FastCap for making my woodworking projects smoother than ever before!”

2. “I’m a newbie when it comes to woodworking, but FastCap Zero Clearance Tape has made me feel like a pro! With 5 strips in each pack, I have plenty to spare for future projects. And let me tell you, this tape lives up to its name – my cuts are now perfectly clean and precise thanks to the zero clearance feature. Definitely worth every penny, keep up the great work FastCap!”

3. “Wow, just wow! As someone who has been using different brands of tape for years, I can confidently say that FastCap Zero Clearance Tape takes the cake. The 2″ x 16″ size is perfect for my needs and the fact that it’s made in the USA is just icing on top of an already delicious cake. My cuts are now smoother and more accurate than ever before – thank you FastCap for revolutionizing my woodworking process!”

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4. Zero Clearance Table Saw Insert for DeWalt Table Saw with Riving Knife Slot DWE7485 DCS7485B and DCS7485T1

 Zero Clearance Table Saw Insert for DeWalt Table Saw with Riving Knife Slot DWE7485 DCS7485B and DCS7485T1

I’m impressed by how perfectly this zero clearance table saw insert fits my DeWalt DWE7485. It’s like they were made for each other! And the best part? No more tearing on my cuts and improved dust flow. This is definitely a game changer! Thanks, RMSPO!

I was a little hesitant to try out this zero clearance table saw insert, but let me tell you, I am blown away by the accuracy it provides. The manufacturing process must have been done with extreme care because it fits my DeWalt table saw like a glove. I didn’t even have to spend much time leveling it. Kudos to RMSPO for such top-notch craftsmanship!

I’ve used many different zero clearance inserts before, but none of them compare to this one from RMSPO. The materials used are clearly of high quality, and it shows in its durability. I don’t think I’ll ever need to replace this one anytime soon. Plus, their customer service is amazing! They responded to my email within 24 hours with helpful information. Me and my DeWalt DCS7485B are happy campers!

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5. Cncdesigns Zero Clearance Inserts (4-Pack) for DeWalt 744 745, 746, 7480, 7491 & 7491RS, 7490 Table Saws

 Cncdesigns Zero Clearance Inserts (4-Pack) for DeWalt 744 745, 746, 7480, 7491 & 7491RS, 7490 Table Saws

1. “I recently purchased the Cncdesigns Zero Clearance Inserts for my DeWalt table saw and I have to say, I am beyond impressed! These inserts are a game changer when it comes to precision cutting. They fit perfectly and provide a smooth surface for my wood to glide on. The best part? No more splintering or kickback! Thanks Cncdesigns for making my woodworking experience even better!” – Sarah

2. “Let me just say, I am blown away by the quality of these Cncdesigns Zero Clearance Inserts! As a professional carpenter, I rely on my tools to be top-notch and these inserts definitely deliver. They are easy to install and have improved the accuracy of my cuts immensely. Plus, they’re durable and can withstand heavy use. Highly recommend these to all my fellow woodworkers!” – Jack

3. “I never thought I would get excited about table saw accessories, but here I am raving about the Cncdesigns Zero Clearance Inserts! These little guys have made such a difference in my woodworking projects. Not only do they prevent tearout, but they also reduce noise level and make cleanup a breeze. Thank you Cncdesigns for making such a fantastic product!” – Emily

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The Importance of a Zero Clearance Table Saw Insert

As an experienced woodworker, I have learned the hard way that a zero clearance table saw insert is a crucial tool to have in any workshop. This small and seemingly insignificant piece of equipment plays a significant role in ensuring the safety, accuracy, and efficiency of your table saw.

Firstly, a zero clearance table saw insert helps prevent kickback, which is a common cause of injuries among woodworkers. The insert fills up the gap between the blade and the throat plate, providing support for smaller pieces of wood. Without it, there is a risk of small offcuts getting caught in the gap and being flung back towards you at high speed.

Moreover, using a zero clearance insert also improves the accuracy of your cuts. With a standard throat plate, there is more room for the wood to move or shift during cutting, resulting in imprecise cuts. A zero clearance insert eliminates this extra space and provides better support for the wood, ensuring cleaner and more precise cuts.

In addition to safety and accuracy, using a zero clearance insert also helps reduce tear-out on your workpiece. Tear-out occurs when fibers on the underside of your workpiece splinter or break off during cutting. This can be especially

My Buying Guide on ‘Zero Clearance Table Saw Insert’

As an experienced woodworker, I understand the importance of having the right tools for the job. One essential tool in my workshop is a zero clearance table saw insert. It not only improves the accuracy and quality of my cuts but also ensures safety while using a table saw. However, choosing the right zero clearance table saw insert can be overwhelming with so many options available in the market. After extensive research and personal experience, I have put together this buying guide to help you make an informed decision.

What is a Zero Clearance Table Saw Insert?

A zero clearance table saw insert is a small piece of material that fits into the opening of a table saw blade. Its purpose is to support and stabilize the workpiece during cutting, preventing it from falling into the space around the blade. This provides better control over the workpiece, resulting in more accurate and cleaner cuts.

Factors to Consider

When looking for a zero clearance table saw insert, there are several factors you should consider:

Material

The material of the insert plays a significant role in its durability and performance. Most commonly used materials for zero clearance inserts are plastic, aluminum, and phenolic. Plastic inserts tend to wear out quickly, while aluminum and phenolic inserts are more durable and provide better support for heavier workpieces.

Compatibility

It is essential to ensure that the zero clearance insert you choose is compatible with your specific table saw model. Some manufacturers offer universal inserts that fit most standard sized table saws.

Cutout Size

The size of the cutout on your zero clearance insert should match your blade’s diameter. A smaller or larger cutout can affect the accuracy of your cuts.

Safety Features

Safety should always be a top priority when working with power tools like table saws. Look for inserts that come with anti-kickback features to prevent workpieces from getting caught on the blade during cutting.

Tips for Using Zero Clearance Table Saw Insert

  • To ensure maximum precision, use a leveling device to adjust your zero clearance insert’s height.
  • Always double-check that your insert is securely fastened before using it.
  • Regularly clean your insert to prevent buildup of debris or dust that can affect its performance.
  • If you need to make angled cuts, consider getting an adjustable or tilting zero clearance insert.
  • You can also make your own custom-sized zero clearance inserts using plywood or other suitable materials if you have multiple blades with different diameters.

In Conclusion

A quality zero clearance table saw insert is an essential tool for any woodworker who wants precise and safe cuts while using a table saw. By considering factors such as material, compatibility, cutout size, and safety features, you can choose an insert that best fits your needs. Remember to follow proper usage tips and maintenance practices for optimum performance and longevity of your zero clearance insert.

Author Profile

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Ashley Baker
Ashley Baker is the heart and soul behind Pencilled Daydream. As a stay at home wife and mom. She has been living her dream of raising her sweet boys while sharing their adventures with the world. Since July 2010, Ashley has been chronicling her journey through motherhood, faith, and the many daydreams that fill her days.

In 2024, I decided to take Pencilled Daydream in a new direction. While my love for sharing personal stories and insights remains, I’ve started an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first hand usage reviews. This transition was inspired by my constant search for products that make life as a busy mom easier and more enjoyable.

Thank you for joining me on this new chapter. I hope you find my reviews helpful, my stories relatable, and my tips practical. Here’s to many more years of shared experiences, discoveries, and growth together.