Table saws are among the most useful and dangerous tools in a woodshop. Nothing else can rip through lumber as quickly and accurately as a good table saw. But that spinning blade can also lead to severe injuries if proper precautions aren’t taken.
That’s why there has been so much interest in flesh-sensing technology that can stop a spinning saw blade in milliseconds when it contacts skin.
In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at two major players in SawStop flesh-sensing table saws: Harvey and SawStop. We’ll cover the key features of each brand’s saws, how their safety technologies work, pros and cons of each system, and how they compare on price. Read on to learn which one might be the safer choice for your woodshop.
Feature | Harvey | SawStop |
Sensor Technology | RFID Tags | Electrical Signal |
Reaction Time | <3 milliseconds | <5 milliseconds |
Special Blades Needed? | No | Yes |
Power Down After Detection? | No | Yes |
Price | $$ | $$$ |
Availability | Direct from Harvey | Retailers & Distributors |
Harvey developed one of the first successful flesh-sensing blade brake systems in table saws. Their GuardSafety system has been around since 2009. Here’s an overview of how it works and what it offers:
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SawStop pioneered the table saw flesh sensing niche and remains an industry leader. Here are the key points on their safety systems:
Now that we’ve covered the basics on each brand’s safety technology, let’s take a closer look at how they compare.
While Harvey GuardSafety and SawStop systems operate in similar ways, there are some notable differences between the two:
While the core safety functionality remains similar across the two brands, SawStop saws incorporate a few extra design choices to further improve safety. But Harvey still offers very fast reaction times and blade stopping effectiveness.
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To help summarize the key strengths and weaknesses of these two blade stopping systems, here’s an overview of pros and cons:
Harvey GuardSafety Pros
Harvey GuardSafety Cons
SawStop Pros
SawStop Cons
As you can see, both options provide excellent safety features and extremely fast reaction times. SawStop has a slight edge in some areas, but also comes with a higher price tag.
Let’s take a closer look at pricing and cost differences between Harvey and SawStop:
As you can see, SawStop saws command about a 10-20% price premium over Harvey saws with similar features. The proprietary SawStop cartridges and blades also add to long term operating costs. But many buyers find the extra peace of mind worth the added investment.
While both Harvey and SawStop make high quality, safe table saws, we give a slight recommendation to SawStop. The more widely available retail distribution, power down feature, and broader range of table saw models give them an edge for most buyers.
We think the extra 10-15% premium for SawStop models is justified for the added safety and convenience they provide. But you can rest assured that either brand offers the best flesh sensing blade brake technology on the market today. Your fingers will thank you regardless of which you choose!
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The core safety technology in the blade brake systems is very similar. The main differences come down to Harvey using RFID tags and standard blades, while SawStop relies on a small electrical signal and proprietary blades/cartridges. SawStop also cuts power after detection where Harvey does not.
At present, Harvey is the only major alternative to SawStop that offers similar fast-acting flesh sensing blade brake technology. There are some other companies developing their own versions, but none have come fully to market yet. Harvey and SawStop have the proven track records in this niche so far.
Based purely on overall safety features and technology, SawStop makes the best and safest table saws currently available. Their flesh sensing brakes have become the gold standard for reducing severe injuries. Models from other brands like Harvey, Powermatic, and Laguna are also excellent saws, but lack the same caliber safety systems.
Without question, table saws equipped with SawStop flesh sensing brake technology represent the safest choice on the market today. No other brand can match their proven sub-5 millisecond reaction time and injury prevention effectiveness. For absolute maximum safety, go with a SawStop.
So in summary, choosing between Harvey and SawStop comes down to price tolerance, availability, and preferences around specialized blades. Both deliver outstanding protection against severe table saw injuries. Prioritize safety, and you can feel confident with either brand.
Just make sure you invest in a fast-stop system like GuardSafety or SawStop to protect yourself in the workshop.
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