If you’ve spent any time in the shop, you know the table saw is the heart of woodworking. But here’s the truth: right out of the box, most saws are missing a few key features that can make your cuts cleaner, your work safer, and your projects a whole lot more enjoyable.

In this post, I’ll share five of the best upgrades you can add to your table saw—things I use myself—that will help you cut more accurately and protect your hands while you do it. These upgrades are perfect for beginner woodworkers who want to get more out of their saw without breaking the bank.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you buy through them—at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the tool deals coming, so thanks for your support! Prices are valid at the time of posting but are subject to change at any time.

Watch The Full Youtube Video Here: This EASY Upgrade Fixes a HUGE Table Saw Problem

1. JessEm Stock Guides – Kickback Prevention and Accuracy Boost

The JessEm Stock Guides are one of my all-time favorite upgrades for both cabinet saws and jobsite saws. They apply consistent pressure down and toward the fence, which does two important things:

Helps prevent kickback
Keeps your stock pressed against the fence for cleaner, more accurate cuts

These guides roll one way only and tilt slightly toward the fence, correcting small mistakes as you feed material. Think of it like having an extra set of hands holding your stock perfectly in place.

👉 Check out the JessEm Stock Guides here
👉 MagSwitch Adapter Base for larger saws

Pro Tip: Grab a spring-loaded center punch (here’s the one I use) to make drilling your mounting holes much easier and more accurate.

2. Rockler Cove Cutting Jig – Create Custom Profiles

Ever wanted to make your own custom cove trim or decorative accents? The Rockler Cove Cutting Jig lets you cut coves safely and precisely right on your table saw.

Sets up in minutes
Cuts unique decorative profiles without expensive router bits
Perfect for small boxes, trim, and furniture projects

I’ll admit, the first time I used it felt a little sketchy, but once it was dialed in, the results were impressive. My walnut test cut came out perfectly smooth.

👉 Pair it with a solid push stick like the Allred Push Stick or a MicroJig GRR-Ripper for added safety.

3. Lightning Lock Dust Collection – Cleaner Shop, Better Air

Dust collection is one of those things beginners often overlook. Without it, your shop gets messy fast and your lungs pay the price.

The Lightning Lock system makes switching between tools super easy:

Magnetic quick-connects for your hoses
Pivoting design prevents tangled hoses
Works with table saws, jointers, planers, band saws, and more

If you’re in a small shop like mine, this upgrade will save you time and frustration while keeping your air cleaner.

4. Magnetic Micro Adjuster – Perfect Fence Accuracy

For anyone chasing perfect cuts, the Magnetic Micro Adjuster from Canyon Fire Tools is a game changer.

Attaches magnetically to your fence
Lets you make micro adjustments for dead-on accuracy
Perfect for dados, joinery, or any cut where precision matters

This tool is designed by a small maker, and I love supporting folks who are innovating in their garages and shops.

5. DIY Table Saw Sleds and Jigs – Affordable, Safe, and Versatile

Finally, one of the easiest and cheapest upgrades is to build your own sleds and jigs.

I’ve got detailed plans for two of my favorites:

Table Saw Sled – Safer crosscuts and repeatable accuracy
Tapering / Jointing Jig – Replace a jointer and cut perfect tapers

👉 Use code MUSTHAVEJIG for 25% off any plan or the Beginner Project Bundle.

Why it matters: Sleds keep your hands further from the blade and give you square, repeatable cuts every time—something beginners often struggle with.

Bonus: Table Saw Safety First

A safer saw is always worth the investment. If you’re serious about upgrading, consider the SawStop Table Saw. It has flesh-sensing technology that can literally save your fingers. For a budget-friendly option, I’ve also had good results with the DeWALT Jobsite Table Saw.

No matter what saw you’re running, always:

Use push sticks or a GRR-Ripper
Keep pressure down and toward the fence
Never cut without thinking through your setup

Your hands are worth protecting.

Final Thoughts

These five upgrades can transform the way you use your table saw. From stock guides that act like a second set of hands to homemade sleds that increase safety and accuracy, each one is an investment in both your woodworking and your safety.

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