a radial arm saw includes a saw assembly pivotally mounted to a support unit which , in turn , is mounted to a wall or other support structure . the saw assembly includes a column that is connectable at one end to a saw table frame or the support unit so as to be affixed in upright operative position during operation and disposed during non - operation in a lateral , storage position . a radial arm and saw unit are supported from the other end of the column . preferably , the column is pivotal between a lateral stored position and an upright operative position . also , the saw assembly is pivotal relative to the support unit between a vertical stored position and a horizontal operative position . a leg locking sleeve may be released to deploy the saw assembly from its stored position into its operative position . the support column may be detachable to shift the radial arm saw between operative and stored positions . the frame is pivotal about a horizontal axis between operative and stored positions , and legs may be provided for added stability . the compact - storage radial arm saw is extremely stable , permits accurate cutting , and in its stored position provides a substantial savings in floor or bench space compared to conventional radial arm saws and yet can be quickly and readily deployed to its operative position .