There are two kinds of woodworkers
There are two kinds of woodworkers. The first kind is often called the safety nut. This is the kind of woodworker who leaves guards in place wherever possible, uses pushsticks, and buys or builds extra safety equipment like fingerboards and pushsticks.
The second kind is often called stubby.
Are you a stubby? Find out, as the next few NSY posts deal with safety equipment I’ve known and loved.
For today, let me just share one quick safety note that many people overlook. When you’re adjusting your tablesaw fence, it’s common practice to have it slant ever-so-slightly away from the sawblade, usually 1/64″ offset on the farthest side. If you do this, don’t move the fence to the opposite side of the blade! If you do, it will be leaning TOWARDS the blade, which absolutely guarantees that the piece will bind between the blade and the fence, and inevitably cause both burning of the piece and rapid projectile motion of your lumber towards your belly button, aka kickback. While I’m at it, don’t forget to stand to the side of your saw when cutting as an extra safety measure.
Keep an eye on your fence tilt. You’ll thank me for it.
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