Track Saw Vs Jointer – Which Tool Delivers Straighter Edges For Your

As woodworkers, DIY builders, and furniture makers, we all share a common goal: achieving perfectly straight and square cuts. Whether you’re building a bookshelf, a dining table, or simply trying to make two boards join seamlessly, a truly straight edge is non-negotiable. But here’s the rub: which tool is the right one for the job? You might be wondering if your versatile track saw can truly replace a dedicated jointer, or if a jointer is an absolute must-have for your workshop.

It’s a common dilemma, especially for those just starting out or looking to optimize their tool collection. You want to make smart investments that deliver precision without breaking the bank or taking up your entire shop. The good news is, you don’t have to guess.

In this comprehensive

track saw vs jointer guide

, we’re going to dive deep into the capabilities of both these powerful tools. We’ll compare their strengths, discuss their limitations, and show you exactly when to reach for each one. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of the

benefits of track saw vs jointer

, know how to use them effectively, and be equipped with the knowledge to make the best decision for your projects and workshop. Let’s get those edges razor-sharp!

Understanding the Contenders: What Are They For?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of

track saw vs jointer

, let’s establish what each tool is fundamentally designed to do. Understanding their core functions is key to appreciating their differences and knowing when each shines.

The Track Saw: Precision Plywood and Panel Cuts

Think of a track saw as a highly refined circular saw that rides on an aluminum guide rail, or “track.” This setup allows it to make extremely straight and accurate cuts, particularly on large sheet goods like plywood, MDF, or even solid wood panels.

*

Guided Accuracy:

The track ensures your cut is perfectly straight, eliminating the wobbly lines often associated with freehand circular saw cuts. *

Splinter-Free Edges:

Many track saws feature a splinter guard strip on the track, which presses down on the wood fibers, resulting in clean, tear-out-free edges. *

Portability:

Most track saws are relatively compact and easy to set up anywhere, making them great for smaller shops or job sites.

It’s an invaluable tool for breaking down large sheets into manageable pieces or for making precise cuts for cabinet parts and built-ins.

The Jointer: Achieving Perfectly Flat and Square Edges

A jointer, on the other hand, is a stationary machine with a spinning cutterhead that shaves thin layers of wood off a board’s face or edge. Its primary purpose is to create a perfectly flat face and a perfectly square edge on rough or warped lumber.

*

Flattening Faces:

It’s the first step in milling rough lumber, creating one truly flat reference face. *

Squaring Edges:

Once a face is flat, you can use the jointer to create an edge that is perfectly square to that face. *

Correcting Warps:

Jointers are designed to remove cupping, bowing, and twisting from boards, preparing them for further processing.

Without a jointer, achieving truly flat and square lumber for furniture making or fine woodworking projects is incredibly difficult, if not impossible. It’s the foundation for stable, gap-free glue-ups and precise joinery.

Track Saw vs Jointer: A Head-to-Head Comparison

Now that we know their basic functions, let’s put these two tools side-by-side to highlight their key differences and strengths. This comparison will help you understand the core capabilities when considering a

track saw vs jointer

for your shop.

Precision and Accuracy

Both tools are about precision, but in different ways.

*

Track Saw:

Delivers excellent straight-line cuts along its track. It’s incredibly accurate for sizing panels and achieving crisp edges on materials that are already flat. Its precision is dependent on the quality of the track and the saw’s setup. *

Jointer:

Provides a truly flat and square reference surface or edge. Its precision comes from its ability to remove material until the surface is perfectly coplanar or perpendicular. This is critical for milling rough lumber to precise dimensions.

If your material starts flat, a track saw maintains that flatness with a straight cut. If your material is *not* flat, a jointer makes it so.

Versatility and Application

This is where their roles diverge significantly.

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Track Saw:

Extremely versatile for cutting sheet goods, solid wood panels, and even cross-cutting wide boards. It excels at breaking down large materials that are difficult to handle on a table saw. Many models can also plunge cut and bevel. *

Jointer:

Primarily designed for milling rough lumber. It’s less versatile for cutting large panels but is indispensable for creating perfectly flat faces and square edges, which are fundamental for glue-ups and stable projects.

You wouldn’t use a track saw to flatten a twisted board, nor would you use a jointer to cut a 4×8 sheet of plywood.

Space and Portability

Workshop space is always a consideration.

*

Track Saw:

Highly portable. The saw itself is handheld, and the tracks can be broken down or stored vertically. Ideal for small shops or on-site work. *

Jointer:

Typically a stationary machine. Even smaller benchtop models require dedicated space. Larger, floor-standing jointers are heavy and take up a significant footprint.

If space is at a premium, a track saw offers much more flexibility.

Cost Considerations

Tool investment is a major factor for most woodworkers.

*

Track Saw:

A good quality track saw system (saw + track) can range from $400 to over $1000, depending on the brand and features. *

Jointer:

Benchtop jointers start around $300-$500, while floor-standing models can easily run $1000-$3000 or more.

Generally, a jointer represents a larger financial and space investment, especially if you’re looking for a quality machine with a wider bed.

Safety Protocols

Both tools demand respect and adherence to safety guidelines.

*

Track Saw:

Relatively safe when used correctly. The blade is mostly shrouded, and the track provides stability. Always wear eye and ear protection. Ensure the workpiece is well-supported and clamped. *

Jointer:

Can be more intimidating due to the exposed spinning cutterhead. Kickback is a risk, and it’s crucial to use push blocks and maintain proper hand placement. Always wear eye and ear protection. Never joint material that is too short or too thin.

Always prioritize safety. Read your tool manuals thoroughly before operation.

When to Choose a Track Saw (and Track Saw Best Practices)

You’ll reach for your track saw when you need precise, straight cuts on large or unwieldy materials that are already reasonably flat. This is where the

benefits of track saw vs jointer

really shine for panel processing.

*

Breaking Down Sheet Goods:

This is its primary superpower. Cutting a full sheet of plywood into cabinet components or furniture parts. *

Sizing Solid Wood Panels:

If you’ve glued up a wide panel and need to trim it to final dimensions or square up an edge. *

Making Straight Cuts on Site:

Its portability makes it ideal for cutting doors, countertops, or shelving in place. *

Cutting Material Too Large for a Table Saw:

When a piece of wood is too big or awkward to safely maneuver on a table saw, the track saw comes to the workpiece.

Edge Jointing with a Track Saw: Is It Possible?

Yes, you can achieve a very good glue-ready edge with a track saw, especially on solid wood that is already relatively flat. This is often a go-to for many small-shop woodworkers who don’t have a jointer.

1.

Select a Sharp Blade:

A high tooth count (e.g., 48T or 60T) blade designed for fine crosscuts or paneling will give the cleanest edge. 2.

Secure the Track:

Clamp your track firmly to the workpiece. Use multiple clamps, especially on longer boards, to prevent any movement. 3.

Support the Material:

Ensure the entire board is well-supported along its length, both on and off the cut line. Sawhorses or a workbench with sacrificial material underneath work well. 4.

Make a Test Cut:

If possible, make a test cut on a scrap piece to check for squareness and cleanliness of the edge. 5.

Slow and Steady:

Feed the saw at a consistent, moderate pace. Don’t rush the cut. 6.

Reference Edge:

For glue-ups, cut one edge, then flip the board end-for-end and cut the adjacent edge on the *same side of the track*. This trick helps cancel out any slight deviation in your track setup for parallel edges.

While a track saw can yield excellent results for glue-ups, remember it only cuts a straight line. It won’t flatten a cupped or twisted board. For that, you need a jointer.

Making Your Track Saw More Eco-Friendly

Being sustainable in the workshop involves more than just tool choice.

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Blade Sharpening:

Instead of replacing dull blades, find a local service that can professionally sharpen them. This extends blade life and reduces waste. *

Dust Collection:

Connect your track saw to a dust extractor. This not only keeps your shop cleaner and healthier but also allows for easier collection and disposal (or even composting, depending on the wood type) of sawdust. *

Proper Maintenance:

A well-maintained tool lasts longer. Follow your

track saw care guide

, keeping it clean and lubricated according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

When to Choose a Jointer (and Jointer Best Practices)

The jointer is indispensable when you’re working with rough lumber or boards that are warped, twisted, or cupped. It’s the essential first step in preparing wood for fine woodworking.

*

Milling Rough Lumber:

This is the jointer’s bread and butter. Creating one flat face and one square edge from an irregular board. *

Flattening Cupped or Twisted Boards:

Essential for salvaging warped material or ensuring stable glue-ups. *

Jointing Edges for Glue-Ups:

When you need perfectly straight and square edges for a strong, invisible glue joint, especially on thicker or longer boards. *

Creating Reference Surfaces:

Establishing a perfectly flat and square foundation before moving to the planer or table saw.

Common Problems with Jointers and How to Fix Them

Even with proper technique, jointers can present challenges. Here are some

common problems with track saw vs jointer

scenarios, focusing on jointers:

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Snipe:

This is when the ends of the board are cut deeper than the middle. *

Fix:

Ensure your infeed and outfeed tables are coplanar and properly adjusted. Support the board fully as it enters and exits the cutterhead. Don’t let the board tip. *

Tapered Cuts:

If one end of the board is thinner or the edge isn’t straight. *

Fix:

Check your fence for squareness to the table and ensure it’s locked down tightly. Maintain consistent pressure against the fence throughout the cut. *

Burn Marks:

Often caused by dull blades or feeding too slowly. *

Fix:

Sharpen or replace dull blades. Increase your feed rate slightly. Take shallower passes. *

Uneven Surface (Scalloping):

Indicates issues with the cutterhead or knives. *

Fix:

Check if your jointer knives are properly set and at the same height. Replace chipped or damaged knives.

If you encounter these issues, always consult your jointer’s manual for specific adjustment procedures.

Sustainable Jointer Use

Like any tool, a jointer can be used more sustainably.

*

Knife Sharpening:

Jointer knives can often be sharpened multiple times, significantly extending their lifespan and reducing waste. Look for local sharpening services. *

Optimize Passes:

Plan your cuts to remove only the necessary amount of material. This preserves wood and reduces the energy spent. *

Dust Collection:

A jointer generates a lot of chips. Connect it to a robust dust collection system to keep your shop clean and capture wood waste for responsible disposal or reuse (e.g., animal bedding, garden mulch). *

Tool Longevity:

Follow your

jointer care guide

diligently. Regular cleaning, lubrication, and checking for alignment will ensure your jointer lasts for decades, reducing the need for replacement.

Combining Forces: Using Both Tools for Superior Results

The truth is, for a well-rounded woodworking shop, a track saw and a jointer aren’t mutually exclusive; they’re complementary. Many professional and hobbyist woodworkers find immense value in owning both.

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Milling and Sizing:

1. Use the jointer to flatten one face of your rough lumber. 2. Use the jointer to square one edge to that flat face. 3. Plane the second face parallel using a planer. 4. Use the table saw to rip the second edge parallel. 5. For extra wide panels, or to cut your already milled lumber to final length, the track saw becomes invaluable, especially for pieces too large for your table saw or miter saw.

*

Panel Glue-Ups:

1. Mill your rough lumber with the jointer to get perfectly flat faces and square edges. 2. Use the track saw to precisely cut these jointed boards to length for your panel. 3. If the jointer isn’t available or the board is too wide, a track saw can create clean, straight edges for glue-ups on already flat material.

This combination allows you to tackle virtually any project, from breaking down raw lumber to precise panel sizing, with confidence and accuracy.

Track Saw vs Jointer Guide: Making the Right Choice for Your Workshop

Deciding which tool to acquire first, or if you need both, comes down to your primary woodworking focus and available resources.

When to Prioritize a Track Saw:

* You primarily work with sheet goods (plywood, MDF, particle board). * You need to break down large panels into smaller, manageable pieces accurately. * You have limited shop space or need portability for on-site work. * You’re looking for an alternative to a table saw for straight-line ripping and cross-cutting. * Your projects mainly involve pre-milled lumber that is already flat.

When to Prioritize a Jointer:

* You frequently work with rough lumber and need to mill it flat and square. * You’re building fine furniture, cabinets, or projects that require perfectly stable, gap-free glue-ups. * You need to correct significant warps, twists, or cups in solid wood. * You already have a way to accurately cut large panels (e.g., a good table saw sled or a panel saw). * You want to create truly dimensionally stable and precise components from raw stock.

For the serious woodworker or furniture maker, a jointer is often considered a foundational tool. However, for DIYers focusing on projects from sheet goods or already dimensioned lumber, a track saw might offer more immediate utility and versatility. If you can, having both provides the ultimate flexibility and precision for a wide range of tasks.

Frequently Asked Questions About Track Saws and Jointers

Can a track saw replace a jointer for all tasks?

No, a track saw cannot fully replace a jointer. A track saw makes a perfectly straight cut on a flat surface, but it cannot flatten a cupped, bowed, or twisted board. A jointer is specifically designed to create a truly flat face and a perfectly square edge, which is essential for milling rough lumber and achieving stable glue-ups.

Is it safe to use a track saw to rip long boards?

Yes, a track saw is excellent for ripping long boards, especially when they are too wide or unwieldy for a table saw. The track keeps the cut perfectly straight and controlled. Always ensure the board is well-supported and clamped securely to prevent movement during the cut.

What is the minimum board length you can safely joint on a jointer?

Generally, the minimum safe board length for a jointer is about 12 inches (30 cm). Shorter boards increase the risk of kickback and make it difficult to maintain control and pressure on the workpiece. Always use push blocks and keep your hands clear of the cutterhead.

How often should I sharpen my jointer knives or track saw blade?

The frequency depends on how often you use the tools and the type of wood you cut. For general use, checking for sharpness every 20-40 hours of operation is a good rule of thumb. If you notice burning, tear-out, or difficulty feeding, it’s likely time for sharpening or replacement. Regular inspection is part of good track saw vs jointer care guide practices.

Can a track saw cut bevels?

Yes, most track saws are designed to cut bevels. They have a tilting base that allows you to set the blade at various angles, typically up to 45 or even 48 degrees. This makes them versatile for creating angled cuts on panels and solid wood.

Final Thoughts: Precision for Every Project

Navigating the world of woodworking tools can feel overwhelming, but understanding the core functions and best applications of each tool simplifies the journey. When it comes to

track saw vs jointer

, it’s clear they are both champions of precision, but in different arenas. The track saw is your go-to for accurate cuts on large panels and for breaking down sheet goods efficiently. The jointer is the undisputed king of milling rough lumber, transforming warped boards into perfectly flat and square stock, forming the foundation of truly professional projects.

For beginners and hobbyists, carefully consider your typical projects. If you mostly work with plywood or pre-dimensioned lumber, a track saw might offer more immediate utility. But if you dream of building fine furniture from rough stock, a jointer is an indispensable investment. Remember, many expert woodworkers eventually find a place for both in their shop, leveraging the unique strengths of each to achieve unparalleled accuracy.

No matter which tool you’re using, always prioritize safety. Wear your personal protective equipment, keep your tools well-maintained, and take the time to learn proper techniques. Your craftsmanship will thank you for it. Keep building, keep learning, and enjoy the process of creating something beautiful with your own hands. Stay safe and stay comfortable!