Lapidary Slab Saws

How to choose slab saws

Blade diameter sets how large a rock you can cut. As a rule of thumb, the usable depth of cut is roughly a third to two-fifths of the blade diameter, so a 10 inch blade suits fist-sized rough while 18 inch and larger saws handle big nodules and slabs.

Look at the feed system (a power feed keeps cuts straight and repeatable), how the vise holds the rock, and whether the saw uses oil or water-based coolant. Blades are sold separately on most models, so budget for a diamond blade that matches the saw's arbor size.