Sawhorses hold long boards, doors and sheet materials at a working height so you can cut, sand or assemble. When you choose a pair, check the height, the weight they can bear, the way the tops hold the work, and how they store away.
What will they hold?
Think about your typical load: a few lengths of timber, a heavy door, or a full sheet of board. Light-duty pairs suit trim and small projects. Heavier frames suit big panels and long spans. Remember that two horses share the load, and that a sheet laid across a wide gap needs a third support.
Types at a glance
| Type | Strength | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| Folding metal frame | Light and quick to store | Narrow top; check locking hinges |
| Folding plastic | Easy to carry, wipeable | Load limit often modest |
| Fixed wood frame | Solid and repairable | Bulky to store |
| Adjustable height | Suits different tasks | Adjustment points need to lock firmly |
| Bracket kit with your own timber | Custom length and size | Needs sound timber and careful assembly |
Details to compare
- Working height: comfortable for your build and the task.
- Top shape: a flat rail gives more support; a V shape grips round stock.
- Foot design: wide, non-slip feet reduce shifting.
- Stacking or nesting: saves floor space.
Using a pair with care
- Set them on firm, level ground.
- Check hinges and locks are fully engaged.
- Space them so the work is supported near both ends, without overhanging too far.
- Clamp loose work before cutting, so it cannot shift.
- Do not stand on them or use them as a step.
Always follow the maker’s load figures and any manual for the tools you use on them.
Storage and transport count for a lot. Folding pairs slide behind a door or hang on a wall, which matters in a small garage. If you carry them to different sites, check the weight of one horse, since you may be lifting both. Wipe off sawdust and moisture after use, and look at the hinges, legs and feet for cracks or bends before each job.
A sawhorse pair can also carry a sheet of board to make a temporary table. If you do that, make sure the board is flat, fixed in place and well supported, and keep tools with moving blades clear of the edges. Follow the safety instructions for each tool you use.
FAQ
Is the load limit per horse or per pair?
Makers describe it differently. Look closely at the wording in the guide.
Can I build my own?
Yes, but it needs sound timber, tight joints and a design that has been sized for the load. Keep it simple and inspect it often.
The Short Version
Think about the heaviest load and longest piece, choose a type that locks firmly, and set the pair on level ground. Follow the load figures in the maker’s guide.
