10-gauge vs 8-gauge extension cord: 8-gauge is safer for 100 feet, 10-gauge works at 50 feet

For a table saw at 50 feet, 10-gauge handles startup surge better than 12-gauge. At 100 feet, 8-gauge prevents voltage drop and random breaker trips, while 10-gauge is borderline. Don’t trust cheap 14-gauge cords rated for 15 amps—they assume light loads and short lengths. Go one size up from the chart to keep your saw from overheating.