SawStop, a manufacturer of table saws with integrated safety technology, periodically runs promotional offers for customers purchasing its Professional Cabinet Saw (PCS) models. According to the available information, the company typically conducts a "free upgrade" promotion once annually. The most recent referenced promotion was a spring offer that concluded on April 30, 2024. This promotion allowed buyers to receive a complimentary accessory valued at up to $299 when purchasing a PCS 1.75HP or 3.0HP model.
The promotional process requires the customer to purchase the saw through an authorized dealer and subsequently fill out a form on the SawStop website. Upon verification, SawStop issues a coupon code to be used for the purchase of one of the selected accessories at no out-of-pocket cost.
Eligible Free Accessories
During the spring 2024 promotion, customers had three choices for their free accessory:
- Premium Dado Blade Set: This set includes a blade cartridge and plate, though these components are sold separately according to the source details.
- Overarm Dust Collection: This accessory is designed to work with the dust collection blade guard. The blade guard is included with 3.0 HP table saws but must be purchased separately for the 1.75 HP models.
- Miter Gauge with 60T Blade: This option was noted as a preferred choice by some observers.
Historical variations of this promotion have included the SawStop PCS mobile base as a freebie option. However, the specific accessories available can change with each promotional period.
Mobile Base Options and User Feedback
Beyond the free promotional items, SawStop offers different mobile base solutions for its table saws, specifically the PCS mobile base and the Industrial Cabinet Saw (ICS) mobile base. User discussions highlight distinct differences between these two options.
The PCS mobile base is frequently offered as the free promotional item. Users describe it as sturdy and functional, capable of lifting the saw and associated fence systems. However, movement is described as requiring a "shimmy shake" or a dance of one-way casters to maneuver the saw in specific directions. This base is generally considered adequate for users who move their saws infrequently, such as for occasional cleaning or shop rearranging.
In contrast, the ICS mobile base is often recommended by experienced users despite its higher cost (referenced as approximately $380 more than the PCS base value). Feedback indicates the ICS base moves "like it's floating on air" and offers superior general mobility. A significant functional advantage is noted for users planning to install the SawStop router table extension, as the ICS base is required for that specific accessory installation. Additionally, the ICS base facilitates the attachment of cast iron extensions by allowing the user to adjust the saw's height relative to a workbench and rotate the unit 180 degrees to complete installation on both sides.
While some users have successfully replaced the fixed casters on their bases with swivel casters, the general consensus among owners suggests that the ICS base provides a significantly better user experience for frequent movement. Retailers generally do not apply the value of a free PCS base toward the purchase of an ICS base.
Dado Blade Sets for SawStop Saws
For users interested in groove cutting, dado blade sets are available for SawStop saws. One specific product mentioned is the FOXBC 8" Carbide Stacking Dado Blade Set, which is compatible with SawStop, Jet, DeWalt, and Bosch saws. This 14-piece set is designed to cut smooth, precise grooves and includes two 8" outer blades, five two-wing chippers, and seven metal shims for fine adjustments. The set handles slot widths ranging from 1/4" to 13/16" and is suitable for cutting dados, grooves, rabbets, fillets, and mortise and tenon joints in materials such as laminated plywood, melamine, and solid wood.
Promotional Events and Industry Context
While SawStop's specific promotional events focus on product purchases, the broader woodworking industry offers events such as Festool Connect. This event, referenced in the context of UK operations, allows enthusiasts to connect with industry experts, explore tools, and purchase returned stock at discounted prices. It serves as an example of the type of engagement and promotional opportunities available within the market, though SawStop's direct consumer engagement appears focused on point-of-sale accessory upgrades.
Conclusion
SawStop provides value to customers through periodic "free upgrade" promotions, typically offering accessories like dado sets, overarm dust collection, or miter gauges with the purchase of a PCS model. For mobility, users must weigh the cost-benefit of the free PCS mobile base against the enhanced maneuverability and specific compatibility features of the paid ICS mobile base. The availability of specialized accessories, such as stacking dado blades, further expands the utility of these table saws.