I took some classes at the Woodworker Academy in Alameda several years ago. Their primary rule was: before you turn on any power tool, ask yourself: am I doing this in the safest way possible? If the answer is ever no, stop and change your approach until the answer is yes. It helps you remember safety glasses, mask, hearing protection, body position, push sticks, all the things you know but sometimes forget.
I just made my first cuts with mine over the weekend - two 81” lengths of plywood at 2 3/4” wide. It was a bit intimidating at first, but I had my husband act as my “spotter” and catch the offcuts and my workpieces as they came off the saw and everything went smoothly. (It’s a little Harbor Freight cheapie, but it was a gift when I couldn’t afford to go buy what I wanted.) I actually used your “Golden Rule” beforehand, without having heard it prior to this video. I lowered my blade and did a dry run through to be certain we had enough clearance, that I could reach everything easily, etc. Great video, as always. Thanks, and keep ‘em coming. 🙂
@@charlieodom9107, I usually do too, but I use a guide (since I don’t have a track saw) and I couldn’t find anything long enough with a straight edge! It was for my little five year old granddaughter (I modified a bed that she loved to fit a mattress set that was a couple inches too long), so I just went for it. I had some 3/4 inch plywood on hand that was the perfect length, after trimming an inch off the ends, so I figured if I couldn’t make it work, I could go to my neighbor, next door, and get him to run the cuts in his huge shop on his much nicer table saw setup. I totally rocked it though! I was kinda proud of myself. 🤗
Steve, I love your "Rehearse your cut" _Table Saw Golden Rule_ - ever since you recommended the table saw "test run" safety tip years ago, it was a light bulb moment for me that really got me to use my table saw. Yes, I was that guy who bought a brand new table saw, set it up, and let it sit for over a year because of pure intimidation. Thanks for all you do, Steve!
Once again Steve…. Excellent safety video. My Grandfather lost part of his thumb to the table saw so I’m always so cautious around it. I always try to find another way to make the weird cuts to make them safer. Awesome video from the best woodworking teacher ever!! Thank you so much for all you do for our woodworking community.
SOLID ADVICE! I always do dry-runs, like you; esp. with big or unwieldy pieces. A rule I introduced for myself: never rush, 'oh just one more', do 'a quick cut'. In situations like that I am most likely to make mistakes or end up in a dangerous situation. Take your time.
I made a mobile 4’x8’ table saw table last year. Having 6 feet of outfeed behind the saw is wonderful. I can move the saw if I need a different set up but it made such a difference having a nice wide outfeed table attached.
Respect, don't fear! Great tips from Steve but here are a few more. A friend once told me to know where all your fingers are before you start and when you cut to make sure they are not in harms way. Do NOT use gloves when using a table saw. Your gloves can easily get caught in the blade as your feel with your finger tips and with gloves, that will not be the case. One last additional tip, do NOT wear baggy long sleeve clothing when using a table saw. It is very easy for the drop of the sleeve to get caught up in the blade especially when you are reaching over the blade itself when finishing the cut.
I cut the tip of my thumb off on my table saw a month ago just because I was rushing and not being smart. It’s approximately halfway healed and has been horribly painful every day since (not to mention the inconvenience it has caused in my “real” job as a veterinary surgeon), all because I acted like I was invincible! This video is at the perfect time to remind me to slow down and stop being an idiot because I am already starting to cut corners again for the sake of time and convenience. I am going to print out the PDF and hang it where I can’t ever miss it so there’s never a “next time” (because it could’ve been A LOT worse)! Thanks, Steve!
I have been on pain meds for several years. I am VERY aware of the effects they have. I have used your ( mine) rehearsal method on all my tools. I still have all my fingers and with the exception of sanding some skin off with belt sanders I've had no accidents. Good advice- novice or reminders to experienced wood workers.
Your Golden Rule is so important, and practicing cuts has helped make it clear for me when my planned cut is not as safe as it could be. That little voice in my head is a good partner in the workshop.
I've been using table saws for 30 years and its still one of the most intimidating or at least most respected for danger of the full shop of tools I own... I have had close calls with fingers, I've dropped a piece on the blade and watched a 4 foot long 6 inch wide board an inch thick yeet itself 12 feet and embed itself thru the sheetrock wall and even a blade nearly explode when it found some solid metal in a piece of reclaimed wood leaving 3 chuncks of carbide to be picked out of the side of my face... At the same time I know another carpenter who got her face wrecked by a kickback, like 30 stitches worth, who refuses to run a table saw and I just don't know how she gets by without it cause its one of the most important tools I own and the centerpiece of IMHO any shop.
My fav' safety item: featherboards. The nearest I've come to losing a digit is trying to watch too many variables (I have a one-track mind). Each featherboard (up to a max of 2 !) eliminates a variable. For me the perfect cut setup is one-dimensional: all I have to do is push (with a stick, natch). One direction, one focus, one mission. I'll also mention that after-market on/off switches (the ones with the big RED STOP LEVER) are pretty easy to install, and worth at least 10 points of blood pressure.
Such a great video of reminders! Thank you!! Totally agree with the "Rehearse your cut" and the "Listen to your instinct" parts. If it feels weird or plain wrong, it's usually because it is. I would add wear a sturdy apron to the PPE list. When (not if) a kickback happens, it's a good additional protection. Personal experience...
The point on not getting lazy with power tools you are comfortable with is probably the most important point anyone with experience needs to respect! So glad you emphasized that!
Great information. I've been woodworking for 40 years and I still pick up tidbits of info when watching others perform their jobs. Thanks for your informative videos.
Just wanted to echo what others said here: EXCELLENT safety tips. I'm a beginning woodworker, and I'm getting a *little* more comfortable using the table saw, but I have a ways to go. Videos like this help me get me a little farther down the road -- obviously never getting cocky/overconfident, because you need to respect the tool. Well done.
absolutely! confidence comes from experience, safety comes from respect for your tools. theyre like wild animals, might seem tame on the surface but throw a stick at the wrong one and youll end up getting bit. old coworker lost his thumb on a table saw due to ignorance. just didnt move it out of the way while cutting small stock and pushed his hand right through the blade. these mistakes can be easily avoided by using a push stick, but making a quick cut 'quicker' led to a disaster.
I learned the "Golden Rule" from you years ago and have never forgotten it. I'm surprised at the number of awkward contortions/movements I've avoided by doing this.
One other rule that I go by on the times that I don't have my blade guard on is "Never ever reach over or across a spinning blade". Even if you have turned the saw off and really want to get that piece you cut to go on to the next part of your project the blade that has not spun all the way down can cause you injury. I have a mental no-go zone around the blade of about 5 or 6 inches that I won't put my hand into when the blade is in motion and the blade guard is off.
I’ve called your Golden Rule the Ramsey Rule in my head for many years, ever since watching an earlier table saw video of yours when I bought my first table saw.
always good to review safety. When the weather is bad and I can't work in the shop, I grab a saw or piece of equipment manual and reread and review the whole thing.
I started taking the weekend woodworker course after a trip to the urgent care from kickback at my friends table saw. Your course taught me how to safely, effectively use it and all my other tools. Thank you! And I promise not to get complacent. Any time I might, I look at the scars on my hand.
Steve - it sounds as if you have a cold! Hope all is well. Thanks for all the advice - I know you are no longer sponsored by Micro-Jig, but I got to know about their products through you, and they have saved my fingers more than once.
I am a beginning woodworker who just got a table saw a month ago so I could rip 2-inch boards. I spent a lot of time watching safety videos before turning the saw on, and I now have made about a dozen cuts with the saw. Your video is excellent, but I'd like to add one more piece of advice: check to make sure that your safety accessories are properly installed before every use. I have a riving knife, anti-kickback pawls, and a blade guard. When I assembled the saw, I spent a lot of time making sure that everything was adjusted according to the owner's manual. Since I'm a beginner, I'm still not great at feeding the workpiece through in a smooth motion, but I got concerned because my workpiece simply stopped. Well, I'm not going to force it to go through the saw. In fact, I instantly knew that there was something wrong. I turned the saw off, unplugged it (I always unplug my power tools before getting anywhere near anything that can injure me), and took a look. One of the screws holding the riving knife had loosened, so the riving knife was no longer sitting true to the blade alignment. Lesson learned: check every single time before I use the saw.
Hi Steve. Long time subscriber. 76 y.o. DIYer with two separate nicks(o.k. cuts) on the outside of my left thumb. This is an excellent video and timely in my case. For whatever reason I have had a lot of SAW STOP videos on my YT feed. I think the saw technology is fantastic. I also think the SAWSTOP should be in every situation where beginners (trade schools and universities) are likely to be involved. That being said I do not own a SS and unlikely at my age to buy one. Even if younger I would probably not. We can't prevent every 'accident'. I think most incidents labeled "accident" are not accidents but are a result of carelessness, inattention, distractions and lack of awareness of one's surroundings. Yes, there are true accidents- incidents that are beyond one's control. Most of the YT videos touting the SS and showing personal injuries of the presenter, usually describe 'ACCIDENTS" that are the result of removal of safety devices. Some mention repetitive cuts, tiredness. etc. Hence, recent SAWSTOP is the answer. Perhaps SAWSTOP is the answer for some people who are not thinking risk and safety. However , that is only one piece of technology in a shop of many potentially dangerous tools. A shop student at an Ivy League school was in the shop by herself at night using a lathe. Her hair was pulled into the lathe and she lost her life.I was castigated by commenters on one YT video because of my stance against the universal need for SAWSTOP. Their argument was that any safety device that will prevent injury is worth the cost. I disagree because if basic safety devices, that do work, are removed and an incident occurs then the saw gets the blame, not the user. Anyone injured by a chop or miter saw or chisel? Thanks Steve for letting me comment. Some of your comments validated my thoughts on safety. Protect your hotdog.🤣
Excellent points, Steve. Thank you. Without your vids and James Hamilton's series, I wouldn't have been brave enough to get a table saw. I also reached the same conclusion about sawstop and paid up for the technology. It's still a little intimidating but my woodworking took a giant leap forward. Thanks again.
Steve makes such good and helpful projects and his weekend woodworker is the best thing a new wood worker could ever take. Today I watched a very old video of Steve making a small wooden gift box and it was excellent after over 10 years. I’m gonna make it for my grand daughter this weekend. So much good content
I know, I know, no blade guard bad, but the riving knife on my Type 4 DW745 (EU version) is designed to go higher than the top of the blade, so I had to modify it (I bought a spare for this purpose so I can still use the blade guard if need be). In the modified state, it is not possible to mount the blade guard. And as I make a lot of cuts where the blade guard and/or the standard riving knife would be in the way, I generally leave it off. I would not even consider taking off the riving knife though. I had to get a bit creative when making my zero-clearance insert to make sure it would go through without cutting the slot all the way through the back. The insert is also secured both front and back so it doesn't accidentally get flung out of the socket (tap on the back, small machine screw at the front). I generally raise the blade to about 3/16" above the surface of the workpiece.
Bloody good! What more can I say? This will surely save someone from a serious injury. Keep up the great work Steve - over a decade of pragmatic sound advice.
This is a great tutorial, Steve. I've already taken a Sharpie to all of my saws and written, "Imagine the cut". That will be changed to "Rehearse the cut" and I will post your list nearby. Thanks!
Many thanks for this comprehensive and well-presented review of vital safety rules. I've independently stumbled into your "golden rule" of cut rehearsal but I'll admit I don't respect that rule *every time*, only when I'm uncertain about a cut. You've given me my safety lesson and practice for this month, to adopt permanently and to use every time. One of my personal rules is when I screw up a cut and get frustrated, I intentionally walk away from my work for a while, to relax and re-gain perspective and to avoid an artificial feeling of being rushed because I've fallen behind my goals for the day.
My #1 rule with any fast spinning death blades, is make sure your head is in the game. I've been in my shop getting ready for a cut, and realized I'm still thinking about family, or something I have to do, or being emotional (angry or excited) about something, and just left because I wasn't fully concentrating on my cut!
I love your channel and have learned so much from it. One thing that I encounter every so often is being in the middle of a cut and having the wood pinch the blade and/or riving knife because of an internal twist. You know this is happening because you can feel the increased resistance from the wood as it travels over the blade. What I've done is stop the saw and find a small piece of scrap to wedge in the far side of the wood that has already been cut.
A lot of these tips remind me of safe vehicle operation. Just being mindful and purposeful when operating a motor vehicle prevents most accidents. It seems that's also the case with power tools.
I love your sense of humor, it's a bonus in these videos. I've recently, as in this month lol, dived into woodworking and your videos were some of the first I watched along with 731 Woodworks and while binge watching I saw you both did one together! Next, I'll be watching your video with Jeff on Home RenoVision, who I've been watching for about 8 months!
Excellent tips - I always plan my cuts to make sure that I can do all of them safely. If I have doubts, then I choose another method to make the cut. When needed, I'll create a jig to help support the board through the cut.
Hi Steve. I'm sorry for my absence over the last few months. I had a hard time, but now I'm fine. This video is one of the most useful. The table saw is not dangerous if it is operated as you explained and also if it is of a good brand. I was naive enough to build my own table saw. I've seen many woodworkers who built their own table saws and turned out great. But for me it was not a good experience. In addition to the imprecise cuts, she gave me a kickback. I got to hear the piece of wood pass at the speed of light near my head. Anyway, I created a death machine. So that it wouldn't go unused, I gave it to my mother-in-law and I'll hope for the best (haha). Thank you so much for sharing one of your amazing videos with us. Greetings from Brazil. Marcelo.
Plus 1 , glad to say I knew those things already , learned them from your past videos , but very good to hear it again , I will be using the table saw this weekend , I hope , and I do not use it all the time , being a painter and so on. Thanks !!!
One other thing: Plan your cuts and mark the pieces to minimize the number of times you have to setup your saw. I tend to rush when I am constantly moving the fence, stop blocks, height, dado stack, etc.
Well done, and appreciated. I use my table saw quite a bit, and your reminders are always good. I frequently use a lot of tools, power cords, moveable work tables, etc. when I am working on a project, and I would add one safety reminder when using the table saw: Clear the work-related clutter from around the saw before making cuts. I tend to gather all sorts of stuff around the saw and get so interested in my project, the temptation to just shove stuff aside to make a cut is always there. Instead, I make myself keep the space around the saw clear.
Thank you for this video. It is always nice to hear safety tips/rules again. While I'm limited in experience with the table saw, I've worked thousands of hours with the circular saw. The problem was, as time went on, the safety rules began to fade from importance. In fact, by the time I sank the blade 3 inches into my thigh, nearly killing myself, I wasn't using any safety measures at all. I was tired... very tired. I was in a hurry I was working in a cramped space which required me to be in an awkward position I was standing on ice; yes, slippery ice. The blade I was using was as dull as a baseball bat but, thankfully, I'd just bent a few teeth back to near-straight from the 45 degree angle they were at. All of the carbide tips on the blade had busted off many moons prior. I was doing the work. I had to force the saw to cut at all, applying a lot of pressure. The material I was cutting, an old stockade fence, was full of nails, screws, and various other hardware. I was conversing with other people, not really paying attention to what I was doing. When the saw bucked back, after hitting a hinge, which was screwed to the underside of the piece I was cutting, it had no trouble cutting through my three layers of pants and then my leg. I quickly tossed the saw out in front of me, grabbed my leg, to hold the 8-inch-long wound shut, a yelled, "Call 911!". I am grateful to be alive, and my leg healed up well. Somehow, I missed my femoral artery by less than a dime's width, and did not hit any bones, ligaments or tendons. I was out of work for three months. I almost bled out in front of my children. Safety is no joke.
Finding your channel was the best thing that happened to me on my woodworking journey. Your emphasis on safety and thoughtfulness at the table saw is excellent. Thank you!
Very useful. I like it. I am very afraid of the table saw. This is why I have invested a lot of money in the Festool saw stop. I feel now much better when I cut something but with big respect to this machine.
As usual, Steve, your tips, advice, etc are invaluable. I always take some new nugget of knowledge away from every video you put out. Thank you for sharing your experience and knowledge with us, and please keep the videos coming. 👍👍
My Dad taught me to use the table saw by the age of 10. I am now 73 and have been nicked only one time. It was a small band aid sized nick. Never have used the blade guard. I find it usually is in the way. But I agree with you, one should use one. Only use a filter mask when sanding. Also never have I used a riving knife. If the board is tending to come together after the blade, I use a shim and drive it into the space that the blade leaves. In the "handy cart" video, love the cat... Great video...
Every bit of this is excellent. Thank for putting safety first. It may be beneficial to explain what zero energy means when directly interfacing with any part of a machine that can be driven. In this case, unplug the saw or switch off the energy source and at least put a tag on it. If it keeps someone from energizing equipment while work is performed in an entire lifetime, it's well worth it.
Thanks for the helpful reminders! Even though I've been doing woodworking as a beginner for several years, the table saw still scares me. I appreciate the reminders of how to be safe when using the table saw. Definitely going to print out the reminder checklist to post in my shop! 👍
Sometimes people use miter and fence together, but the put a block against the fence keeping it away from the fence when engaging the blade. I was told you need to make sure the distance between the fence and blade should be great than the boards turn 45 degrees, that way it cannot get jammed in between the blade and fence
Excellent reminders. I also make a conscious effort to not get distracted during a cut. Many things in your shop area can distract you. Finally, stay as far as possible from anyone you may be helping in their shop who have no mind set for safety whatsoever. They will eventually get you or themselves hurt.
Great advice as always. I'd also bring up a point you mentioned in some other video before: If you're distracted/tired/not fully focused or in any way not in a frame of mind for using power tools STOP and go inside. Better to lose some productivity than a finger or worse.
another great video...I had a 15 year old ryobi table saw with no guards and and a wobbly fence. I dreaded using it. Last fall I got a new 8 1/4" dewalt saw and it was a game changer. As a bonus it has storage for the push stick inside the fence! I use all guards and safety features, but am still very mindful on every cut. Thanks again steve.
Your last one the golden rule I just mentioned to Matt Outlaw giving you full credit he recently posted a new video about 5 tools you didn't know you needed, his latest one I aked him if he uses the grriper cause I don't remember him using one before, anyway I really like how you explain the practice runs with it and I mention it when I can stating I learned it from you, thanks for everything you do.
I have a couple of other rules to add: If you are working in an area that other family members might enter, let them know what you are doing and ask them to stay clear. People are often attracted to the noise and may distract or startle you. Unplug the saw as soon as you're done with it. The power switches are usually located at a height where they can accidentally be bumped on.
Thanks for this video. I just started using a table saw at the school where I work. It is an amazing tool and makes life so much easier. I will implement the recommendations as I use the saw. Spot on Steve!
Hadn’t used my old Craftsman’s saw for a while- it doesn’t have a writhing knife but has one on the kick back protector which flips away or comes off completely. I use it more now. I have fine tuned the fence (previously I only did outdoor redwood work) now I’m doing more fine work. Got a new miter and built two sleds. I’m amazed how much better the experience is when you pay attention to your machine and your fingers. I appreciate your list Steve and pretty much go through all safety precautions. Never be in a rush! Still have all my digits! Your videos are always useful reminders. Thanks!
I have a similar Craftsman saw - early 1980s. The rear mounted combination kickback/blade cover/fixed splitter mounts on a post jutting out of the back of the table and is one of the most dangerous designs I could imagine - first time the board hangs up on the splitter (pseudo riving knife) it’s a real opportunity for kickback or for the anti-kickback pawls to dig a chunk out of the board. The splitter is also too far back to prevent some kickback. Couple that with a cheap, inaccurate fence … . In any event, it was (is) straightforward to add a Biesemeyer fence and JessEm Clear Cut guides (prevent kickback, pull board into fence). I bought mine a long time ago, but for all its shortcomings I love the solid cast iron table and use it regularly. After all, when I pay over $300 for a saw I expect it to last (especially with another $400 in add on parts). That’s my story.
It’s”riving” knife, but there are situations where “writhing” might be a more appropriate term! Ha! I’ve been retired for almost 2 years, and I’m spending a lot more time in the shop now. Last week I had nasty kickback incident (my right front is still purple!) that’s caused me to super attentive using everything in the shop! I’ve always heard “what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger/smarter”, and I guess it’s true! As a funny side story, the day after the kickback I was in the tool section at Lowes and another shopper spoke to me. After chit chatting for a few minutes, he asked me if I, or anyone I know of, was looking for a job site table saw. It seems he too had had a kickback incident and it scared him so bad that he refuses to ever use it again, and that the first person with $100 would own it!
I get away without a table saw in my tiny shop... but I tell you what, making all the drawers for the Small Parts Storage from the Weekend Workshop course without one had me sorely tempted to find a way to make it fit! 🤣
Nice tips, even for someone who is experienced. The most important advice was to listen to that voice and don’t do “just this one”. Any accident I’ve had is always a “just this one” or “I should probably”. I would only add that I feel like your kickback warnings were mostly focused on small offcuts; one of the most scary things I’ve witnessed was when my friend was trying to cut a roughly 2’ by 2’ piece of 3/4 plywood. I think he was trying to take 2 inches off of it and so the fence was set at like 22”. Well, he got a few inches in and it bound up and threw this entire piece of plywood at him, almost broke his arm and continued another 20 feet behind him. Cutting boards that are as wide as they are long pretty much equals a crosscut and becomes very dangerous using the rip fence.
Love your videos, Steve. I just powered up my monster Delta, and it's a very intimidating saw. Trying to run through the checklist in my head before every cut. Thanks!
It's also worth noting that the newer track/plunge saws have anti-kickback mechanisms better than a riving knife installed (Makita 40v, the newest Festool 36v, Mafell, etc.). This means coupled with a TSO or Woodpeckers parallel guide system, certain track saws are potentially safer than table saws and even more accurate. Coupled with a good router table, the only benefit of a table saw is doing certain cuts faster (e.g. dados). You can't even approach the level of safety this combination provides unless you spend considerably more money investing in a Sawstop AND using the guards, but even then there are certain cuts that are always going to be more dangerous. Unless someone has the room and money for such a table saw system, I think most weekend warriors are better off with a plunge saw, parallel guides and a decent router.
That’s a good feature on your saw but not all saws have that feature. A number of new saw owners could think this would be a good idea without realizing the harmful consequences of an unintended turn on of their saw.
Great stuff, Steve. I would only add the importance of a zero clearance throat plate for very thin rips. Your saw (like my old Delta) has HUUUGE gaps, which allow smaller pieces to fall into the saw, or bind the blade.
I've only had one woodworking incident, I was turning a large 4x4x16 on a lathe and forgot to turn the speed down. After switching it on it sped up fiercely and before I could shut it down the post flew off smacking me in the chest, fortunately no broken bones just bruises and a now set in stone reminder to always check and reset speeds as required
Good stuff, as usual. I never move until my blade stops. That’s my rule. Two seconds, I can wait that two seconds. I just made a riving knife for my old DeWalt and a splitter for my cabinet Unisaw, plus I have my “Steve Ramsey” crosscut sled and other jigs to facilitate safe conduct.🙂
I took some classes at the Woodworker Academy in Alameda several years ago. Their primary rule was: before you turn on any power tool, ask yourself: am I doing this in the safest way possible? If the answer is ever no, stop and change your approach until the answer is yes. It helps you remember safety glasses, mask, hearing protection, body position, push sticks, all the things you know but sometimes forget.
people that injure themselves probably have 2 things not on that list: confidence and a need for speed
@@natalieisagirlnow is a table saw dangerous
@@jeremynguyen2346 only the person using it incorrectly makes it dangerous
@@christopheredwards5884 I'd flip that on its head, and say it's inherently dangerous. Only the person using it can make it safe.
I just made my first cuts with mine over the weekend - two 81” lengths of plywood at 2 3/4” wide. It was a bit intimidating at first, but I had my husband act as my “spotter” and catch the offcuts and my workpieces as they came off the saw and everything went smoothly. (It’s a little Harbor Freight cheapie, but it was a gift when I couldn’t afford to go buy what I wanted.)
I actually used your “Golden Rule” beforehand, without having heard it prior to this video. I lowered my blade and did a dry run through to be certain we had enough clearance, that I could reach everything easily, etc.
Great video, as always. Thanks, and keep ‘em coming. 🙂
If you're happy with it, it's a good tool!
Tool cost usually correlates to convenience and time savings more than anything else.
@@Leadvest agreed!
Damn! I don't even cut large pieces of plywood on my tablesaw! I use a cordless circular saw.
@@Leadvest I yt?
@@charlieodom9107, I usually do too, but I use a guide (since I don’t have a track saw) and I couldn’t find anything long enough with a straight edge! It was for my little five year old granddaughter (I modified a bed that she loved to fit a mattress set that was a couple inches too long), so I just went for it. I had some 3/4 inch plywood on hand that was the perfect length, after trimming an inch off the ends, so I figured if I couldn’t make it work, I could go to my neighbor, next door, and get him to run the cuts in his huge shop on his much nicer table saw setup. I totally rocked it though! I was kinda proud of myself. 🤗
Thanks for these safety reminders. I NEVER get tired of hearing them, nor the little tips and tricks you use, especially with a table saw.
Steve, I love your "Rehearse your cut" _Table Saw Golden Rule_ - ever since you recommended the table saw "test run" safety tip years ago, it was a light bulb moment for me that really got me to use my table saw. Yes, I was that guy who bought a brand new table saw, set it up, and let it sit for over a year because of pure intimidation. Thanks for all you do, Steve!
I'm there right now. Bought the saw last spring. It makes a great table. Not sure about the saw. These videos definitely help though.
I'm getting my first table saw next week I can't wait.
Once again Steve…. Excellent safety video. My Grandfather lost part of his thumb to the table saw so I’m always so cautious around it. I always try to find another way to make the weird cuts to make them safer. Awesome video from the best woodworking teacher ever!! Thank you so much for all you do for our woodworking community.
Thank you for always having the heart of a teacher for those that watch.
I came here for something that I can't even remember now. You got me again Steve... always appreciate your tips and guidance!
Hands down one of the best woodworking channels on UA-cam. The amount of things I've learned (or ideas I got) from Steve can't be counted.
SOLID ADVICE! I always do dry-runs, like you; esp. with big or unwieldy pieces. A rule I introduced for myself: never rush, 'oh just one more', do 'a quick cut'. In situations like that I am most likely to make mistakes or end up in a dangerous situation. Take your time.
I made a mobile 4’x8’ table saw table last year. Having 6 feet of outfeed behind the saw is wonderful. I can move the saw if I need a different set up but it made such a difference having a nice wide outfeed table attached.
Respect, don't fear! Great tips from Steve but here are a few more. A friend once told me to know where all your fingers are before you start and when you cut to make sure they are not in harms way. Do NOT use gloves when using a table saw. Your gloves can easily get caught in the blade as your feel with your finger tips and with gloves, that will not be the case. One last additional tip, do NOT wear baggy long sleeve clothing when using a table saw. It is very easy for the drop of the sleeve to get caught up in the blade especially when you are reaching over the blade itself when finishing the cut.
I cut the tip of my thumb off on my table saw a month ago just because I was rushing and not being smart. It’s approximately halfway healed and has been horribly painful every day since (not to mention the inconvenience it has caused in my “real” job as a veterinary surgeon), all because I acted like I was invincible! This video is at the perfect time to remind me to slow down and stop being an idiot because I am already starting to cut corners again for the sake of time and convenience. I am going to print out the PDF and hang it where I can’t ever miss it so there’s never a “next time” (because it could’ve been A LOT worse)! Thanks, Steve!
I have been on pain meds for several years. I am VERY aware of the effects they have. I have used your ( mine) rehearsal method on all my tools. I still have all my fingers and with the exception of sanding some skin off with belt sanders I've had no accidents. Good advice- novice or reminders to experienced wood workers.
Pearls of wisdom!
Your Golden Rule is so important, and practicing cuts has helped make it clear for me when my planned cut is not as safe as it could be. That little voice in my head is a good partner in the workshop.
I've been using table saws for 30 years and its still one of the most intimidating or at least most respected for danger of the full shop of tools I own... I have had close calls with fingers, I've dropped a piece on the blade and watched a 4 foot long 6 inch wide board an inch thick yeet itself 12 feet and embed itself thru the sheetrock wall and even a blade nearly explode when it found some solid metal in a piece of reclaimed wood leaving 3 chuncks of carbide to be picked out of the side of my face... At the same time I know another carpenter who got her face wrecked by a kickback, like 30 stitches worth, who refuses to run a table saw and I just don't know how she gets by without it cause its one of the most important tools I own and the centerpiece of IMHO any shop.
My fav' safety item: featherboards. The nearest I've come to losing a digit is trying to watch too many variables (I have a one-track mind). Each featherboard (up to a max of 2 !) eliminates a variable. For me the perfect cut setup is one-dimensional: all I have to do is push (with a stick, natch). One direction, one focus, one mission. I'll also mention that after-market on/off switches (the ones with the big RED STOP LEVER) are pretty easy to install, and worth at least 10 points of blood pressure.
Such a great video of reminders! Thank you!!
Totally agree with the "Rehearse your cut" and the "Listen to your instinct" parts. If it feels weird or plain wrong, it's usually because it is. I would add wear a sturdy apron to the PPE list. When (not if) a kickback happens, it's a good additional protection. Personal experience...
The point on not getting lazy with power tools you are comfortable with is probably the most important point anyone with experience needs to respect! So glad you emphasized that!
Great information. I've been woodworking for 40 years and I still pick up tidbits of info when watching others perform their jobs. Thanks for your informative videos.
Great video. Take it from someone who cut off a thumb, your advice is essential and very helpful. It only takes one small mistake!
Just wanted to echo what others said here: EXCELLENT safety tips. I'm a beginning woodworker, and I'm getting a *little* more comfortable using the table saw, but I have a ways to go. Videos like this help me get me a little farther down the road -- obviously never getting cocky/overconfident, because you need to respect the tool. Well done.
absolutely! confidence comes from experience, safety comes from respect for your tools. theyre like wild animals, might seem tame on the surface but throw a stick at the wrong one and youll end up getting bit. old coworker lost his thumb on a table saw due to ignorance. just didnt move it out of the way while cutting small stock and pushed his hand right through the blade. these mistakes can be easily avoided by using a push stick, but making a quick cut 'quicker' led to a disaster.
I learned the "Golden Rule" from you years ago and have never forgotten it. I'm surprised at the number of awkward contortions/movements I've avoided by doing this.
Thank you for taking your time and aware everyone who does read manuals but have tendency of ignoring the inner voice.
One other rule that I go by on the times that I don't have my blade guard on is "Never ever reach over or across a spinning blade". Even if you have turned the saw off and really want to get that piece you cut to go on to the next part of your project the blade that has not spun all the way down can cause you injury. I have a mental no-go zone around the blade of about 5 or 6 inches that I won't put my hand into when the blade is in motion and the blade guard is off.
Excellent point. MANY accidents have occurred that way, with a hand or loose clothing getting into the blade.
I’ve called your Golden Rule the Ramsey Rule in my head for many years, ever since watching an earlier table saw video of yours when I bought my first table saw.
Nothing new but these types of safety/best practice videos are always welcomed in my opinion!
always good to review safety. When the weather is bad and I can't work in the shop, I grab a saw or piece of equipment manual and reread and review the whole thing.
Steve makes me want to go work on something. I love watching these videos for motivation!
I started taking the weekend woodworker course after a trip to the urgent care from kickback at my friends table saw. Your course taught me how to safely, effectively use it and all my other tools. Thank you!
And I promise not to get complacent. Any time I might, I look at the scars on my hand.
Steve - it sounds as if you have a cold! Hope all is well. Thanks for all the advice - I know you are no longer sponsored by Micro-Jig, but I got to know about their products through you, and they have saved my fingers more than once.
I am a beginning woodworker who just got a table saw a month ago so I could rip 2-inch boards. I spent a lot of time watching safety videos before turning the saw on, and I now have made about a dozen cuts with the saw. Your video is excellent, but I'd like to add one more piece of advice: check to make sure that your safety accessories are properly installed before every use. I have a riving knife, anti-kickback pawls, and a blade guard. When I assembled the saw, I spent a lot of time making sure that everything was adjusted according to the owner's manual.
Since I'm a beginner, I'm still not great at feeding the workpiece through in a smooth motion, but I got concerned because my workpiece simply stopped. Well, I'm not going to force it to go through the saw. In fact, I instantly knew that there was something wrong. I turned the saw off, unplugged it (I always unplug my power tools before getting anywhere near anything that can injure me), and took a look. One of the screws holding the riving knife had loosened, so the riving knife was no longer sitting true to the blade alignment.
Lesson learned: check every single time before I use the saw.
One more project in weekend woodworker and then I move on to weekend workshop...man do I need that one. Great reminders. Thanks Steve.
Hi Steve. Long time subscriber. 76 y.o. DIYer with two separate nicks(o.k. cuts) on the outside of my left thumb. This is an excellent video and timely in my case. For whatever reason I have had a lot of SAW STOP videos on my YT feed. I think the saw technology is fantastic. I also think the SAWSTOP should be in every situation where beginners (trade schools and universities) are likely to be involved. That being said I do not own a SS and unlikely at my age to buy one. Even if younger I would probably not. We can't prevent every 'accident'. I think most incidents labeled "accident" are not accidents but are a result of carelessness, inattention, distractions and lack of awareness of one's surroundings. Yes, there are true accidents- incidents that are beyond one's control. Most of the YT videos touting the SS and showing personal injuries of the presenter, usually describe 'ACCIDENTS" that are the result of removal of safety devices. Some mention repetitive cuts, tiredness. etc. Hence, recent SAWSTOP is the answer. Perhaps SAWSTOP is the answer for some people who are not thinking risk and safety. However , that is only one piece of technology in a shop of many potentially dangerous tools. A shop student at an Ivy League school was in the shop by herself at night using a lathe. Her hair was pulled into the lathe and she lost her life.I was castigated by commenters on one YT video because of my stance against the universal need for SAWSTOP. Their argument was that any safety device that will prevent injury is worth the cost. I disagree because if basic safety devices, that do work, are removed and an incident occurs then the saw gets the blame, not the user. Anyone injured by a chop or miter saw or chisel?
Thanks Steve for letting me comment. Some of your comments validated my thoughts on safety. Protect your hotdog.🤣
What a wise man. Great video on safety.
This deserves waaay more views. Thank you!
Excellent points, Steve. Thank you. Without your vids and James Hamilton's series, I wouldn't have been brave enough to get a table saw. I also reached the same conclusion about sawstop and paid up for the technology. It's still a little intimidating but my woodworking took a giant leap forward. Thanks again.
Steve makes such good and helpful projects and his weekend woodworker is the best thing a new wood worker could ever take. Today I watched a very old video of Steve making a small wooden gift box and it was excellent after over 10 years. I’m gonna make it for my grand daughter this weekend. So much good content
My favorites wood knowledge related channel on you tube by far
Really good, Steve! Especially explaining how to rehearse the cut.
I know, I know, no blade guard bad, but the riving knife on my Type 4 DW745 (EU version) is designed to go higher than the top of the blade, so I had to modify it (I bought a spare for this purpose so I can still use the blade guard if need be). In the modified state, it is not possible to mount the blade guard. And as I make a lot of cuts where the blade guard and/or the standard riving knife would be in the way, I generally leave it off.
I would not even consider taking off the riving knife though. I had to get a bit creative when making my zero-clearance insert to make sure it would go through without cutting the slot all the way through the back. The insert is also secured both front and back so it doesn't accidentally get flung out of the socket (tap on the back, small machine screw at the front).
I generally raise the blade to about 3/16" above the surface of the workpiece.
Bloody good! What more can I say? This will surely save someone from a serious injury. Keep up the great work Steve - over a decade of pragmatic sound advice.
This is a great tutorial, Steve. I've already taken a Sharpie to all of my saws and written, "Imagine the cut". That will be changed to "Rehearse the cut" and I will post your list nearby. Thanks!
Many thanks for this comprehensive and well-presented review of vital safety rules. I've independently stumbled into your "golden rule" of cut rehearsal but I'll admit I don't respect that rule *every time*, only when I'm uncertain about a cut. You've given me my safety lesson and practice for this month, to adopt permanently and to use every time.
One of my personal rules is when I screw up a cut and get frustrated, I intentionally walk away from my work for a while, to relax and re-gain perspective and to avoid an artificial feeling of being rushed because I've fallen behind my goals for the day.
I've watched you say these things before and watched this new one anyway because we all let our guard down at times. Safety first ! Thanks Steve.
My #1 rule with any fast spinning death blades, is make sure your head is in the game. I've been in my shop getting ready for a cut, and realized I'm still thinking about family, or something I have to do, or being emotional (angry or excited) about something, and just left because I wasn't fully concentrating on my cut!
I love your channel and have learned so much from it.
One thing that I encounter every so often is being in the middle of a cut and having the wood pinch the blade and/or riving knife because of an internal twist. You know this is happening because you can feel the increased resistance from the wood as it travels over the blade.
What I've done is stop the saw and find a small piece of scrap to wedge in the far side of the wood that has already been cut.
I'm a game developer and a hobbyist woodworker. Thanks to you, I still have all my fingers. And my fingers are kind of necessary in my day job...
Thanks for the awesome tips, Steve!
A lot of these tips remind me of safe vehicle operation. Just being mindful and purposeful when operating a motor vehicle prevents most accidents. It seems that's also the case with power tools.
Thanks for the update Steve
I really appreciate this set of reminders, Steve.
I love your sense of humor, it's a bonus in these videos. I've recently, as in this month lol, dived into woodworking and your videos were some of the first I watched along with 731 Woodworks and while binge watching I saw you both did one together! Next, I'll be watching your video with Jeff on Home RenoVision, who I've been watching for about 8 months!
Great! I just made my first cuts today. Thanks! I love your videos!
Thank you for the valuable reminders
Excellent tips - I always plan my cuts to make sure that I can do all of them safely. If I have doubts, then I choose another method to make the cut. When needed, I'll create a jig to help support the board through the cut.
Hi Steve. I'm sorry for my absence over the last few months. I had a hard time, but now I'm fine. This video is one of the most useful. The table saw is not dangerous if it is operated as you explained and also if it is of a good brand. I was naive enough to build my own table saw. I've seen many woodworkers who built their own table saws and turned out great. But for me it was not a good experience. In addition to the imprecise cuts, she gave me a kickback. I got to hear the piece of wood pass at the speed of light near my head. Anyway, I created a death machine. So that it wouldn't go unused, I gave it to my mother-in-law and I'll hope for the best (haha). Thank you so much for sharing one of your amazing videos with us. Greetings from Brazil. Marcelo.
Plus 1 , glad to say I knew those things already , learned them from your past videos , but very good to hear it again , I will be using the table saw this weekend , I hope , and I do not use it all the time , being a painter and so on.
Thanks !!!
One other thing: Plan your cuts and mark the pieces to minimize the number of times you have to setup your saw. I tend to rush when I am constantly moving the fence, stop blocks, height, dado stack, etc.
That's an excellent tip and something I really need to work on.
Well done, and appreciated. I use my table saw quite a bit, and your reminders are always good. I frequently use a lot of tools, power cords, moveable work tables, etc. when I am working on a project, and I would add one safety reminder when using the table saw: Clear the work-related clutter from around the saw before making cuts. I tend to gather all sorts of stuff around the saw and get so interested in my project, the temptation to just shove stuff aside to make a cut is always there. Instead, I make myself keep the space around the saw clear.
Thank you for this video. It is always nice to hear safety tips/rules again. While I'm limited in experience with the table saw, I've worked thousands of hours with the circular saw. The problem was, as time went on, the safety rules began to fade from importance. In fact, by the time I sank the blade 3 inches into my thigh, nearly killing myself, I wasn't using any safety measures at all.
I was tired... very tired.
I was in a hurry
I was working in a cramped space which required me to be in an awkward position
I was standing on ice; yes, slippery ice.
The blade I was using was as dull as a baseball bat but, thankfully, I'd just bent a few teeth back to near-straight from the 45 degree angle they were at. All of the carbide tips on the blade had busted off many moons prior.
I was doing the work. I had to force the saw to cut at all, applying a lot of pressure.
The material I was cutting, an old stockade fence, was full of nails, screws, and various other hardware.
I was conversing with other people, not really paying attention to what I was doing.
When the saw bucked back, after hitting a hinge, which was screwed to the underside of the piece I was cutting, it had no trouble cutting through my three layers of pants and then my leg.
I quickly tossed the saw out in front of me, grabbed my leg, to hold the 8-inch-long wound shut, a yelled, "Call 911!".
I am grateful to be alive, and my leg healed up well. Somehow, I missed my femoral artery by less than a dime's width, and did not hit any bones, ligaments or tendons.
I was out of work for three months.
I almost bled out in front of my children.
Safety is no joke.
Finding your channel was the best thing that happened to me on my woodworking journey. Your emphasis on safety and thoughtfulness at the table saw is excellent. Thank you!
Very useful. I like it. I am very afraid of the table saw. This is why I have invested a lot of money in the Festool saw stop. I feel now much better when I cut something but with big respect to this machine.
Great refresher of information. Not 100% new but great to hear again.
Thank for keeping us safe
Thanks for this video. I just got my first table saw which is a massive 5hp cabinet saw given to me and yeah it’s intimidating. Thanks for the tips
As usual, Steve, your tips, advice, etc are invaluable. I always take some new nugget of knowledge away from every video you put out. Thank you for sharing your experience and knowledge with us, and please keep the videos coming. 👍👍
My Dad taught me to use the table saw by the age of 10. I am now 73 and have been nicked only one time. It was a small band aid sized nick. Never have used the blade guard. I find it usually is in the way. But I agree with you, one should use one. Only use a filter mask when sanding. Also never have I used a riving knife. If the board is tending to come together after the blade, I use a shim and drive it into the space that the blade leaves. In the "handy cart" video, love the cat... Great video...
Great video, thanks for talking about how the offcut work piece rules have exceptions like you mentioned
Every bit of this is excellent. Thank for putting safety first. It may be beneficial to explain what zero energy means when directly interfacing with any part of a machine that can be driven. In this case, unplug the saw or switch off the energy source and at least put a tag on it. If it keeps someone from energizing equipment while work is performed in an entire lifetime, it's well worth it.
As always, a helpful, informative video. Thank you
Nice video. Great tips for beginners as well as seasoned users.
Thanks for the helpful reminders! Even though I've been doing woodworking as a beginner for several years, the table saw still scares me. I appreciate the reminders of how to be safe when using the table saw. Definitely going to print out the reminder checklist to post in my shop! 👍
Sometimes people use miter and fence together, but the put a block against the fence keeping it away from the fence when engaging the blade. I was told you need to make sure the distance between the fence and blade should be great than the boards turn 45 degrees, that way it cannot get jammed in between the blade and fence
The uncle we never had. Thanks Steve
Excellent tips, Steve! Thanks a bunch! 😃
Stay safe there with your family! 🖖😊
Excellent reminders. I also make a conscious effort to not get distracted during a cut. Many things in your shop area can distract you. Finally, stay as far as possible from anyone you may be helping in their shop who have no mind set for safety whatsoever. They will eventually get you or themselves hurt.
Great advice as always. I'd also bring up a point you mentioned in some other video before: If you're distracted/tired/not fully focused or in any way not in a frame of mind for using power tools STOP and go inside. Better to lose some productivity than a finger or worse.
another great video...I had a 15 year old ryobi table saw with no guards and and a wobbly fence. I dreaded using it. Last fall I got a new 8 1/4" dewalt saw and it was a game changer. As a bonus it has storage for the push stick inside the fence! I use all guards and safety features, but am still very mindful on every cut. Thanks again steve.
Your last one the golden rule I just mentioned to Matt Outlaw giving you full credit he recently posted a new video about 5 tools you didn't know you needed, his latest one I aked him if he uses the grriper cause I don't remember him using one before, anyway I really like how you explain the practice runs with it and I mention it when I can stating I learned it from you, thanks for everything you do.
Great reminder to not get lazy!!
Wow, I sure love your videos, but I'm thinking this is the best one for me and I just sent it to my son in Virginia! Thanks, so much. Jim
once again Steve.. excellent safety video.. thank you so much 🌷
I have a couple of other rules to add:
If you are working in an area that other family members might enter, let them know what you are doing and ask them to stay clear. People are often attracted to the noise and may distract or startle you.
Unplug the saw as soon as you're done with it. The power switches are usually located at a height where they can accidentally be bumped on.
Agreed. I always unplug my power tools as soon as I'm done with them.
Thank you for all your exciting and educational videos. The SawStop AIM technology is available on the Festool TKS 80 (since 2020).
Very important tips, as usual! Thanks. 🙏🛠️
Thank you, your presentation is so easy to follow and you really do talk sense. Cheers.
Brilliant, as always.
Thanks for this video. I just started using a table saw at the school where I work. It is an amazing tool and makes life so much easier. I will implement the recommendations as I use the saw. Spot on Steve!
Hadn’t used my old Craftsman’s saw for a while- it doesn’t have a writhing knife but has one on the kick back protector which flips away or comes off completely. I use it more now. I have fine tuned the fence (previously I only did outdoor redwood work) now I’m doing more fine work. Got a new miter and built two sleds. I’m amazed how much better the experience is when you pay attention to your machine and your fingers. I appreciate your list Steve and pretty much go through all safety precautions. Never be in a rush! Still have all my digits! Your videos are always useful reminders. Thanks!
I have a similar Craftsman saw - early 1980s. The rear mounted combination kickback/blade cover/fixed splitter mounts on a post jutting out of the back of the table and is one of the most dangerous designs I could imagine - first time the board hangs up on the splitter (pseudo riving knife) it’s a real opportunity for kickback or for the anti-kickback pawls to dig a chunk out of the board. The splitter is also too far back to prevent some kickback. Couple that with a cheap, inaccurate fence … . In any event, it was (is) straightforward to add a Biesemeyer fence and JessEm Clear Cut guides (prevent kickback, pull board into fence). I bought mine a long time ago, but for all its shortcomings I love the solid cast iron table and use it regularly. After all, when I pay over $300 for a saw I expect it to last (especially with another $400 in add on parts). That’s my story.
It’s”riving” knife, but there are situations where “writhing” might be a more appropriate term! Ha! I’ve been retired for almost 2 years, and I’m spending a lot more time in the shop now. Last week I had nasty kickback incident (my right front is still purple!) that’s caused me to super attentive using everything in the shop! I’ve always heard “what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger/smarter”, and I guess it’s true! As a funny side story, the day after the kickback I was in the tool section at Lowes and another shopper spoke to me. After chit chatting for a few minutes, he asked me if I, or anyone I know of, was looking for a job site table saw. It seems he too had had a kickback incident and it scared him so bad that he refuses to ever use it again, and that the first person with $100 would own it!
I get away without a table saw in my tiny shop... but I tell you what, making all the drawers for the Small Parts Storage from the Weekend Workshop course without one had me sorely tempted to find a way to make it fit! 🤣
I totally misunderstood the title. Like turning the table saw on, not like woodturning. Excellent video regardless.
Nice tips, even for someone who is experienced. The most important advice was to listen to that voice and don’t do “just this one”. Any accident I’ve had is always a “just this one” or “I should probably”.
I would only add that I feel like your kickback warnings were mostly focused on small offcuts; one of the most scary things I’ve witnessed was when my friend was trying to cut a roughly 2’ by 2’ piece of 3/4 plywood. I think he was trying to take 2 inches off of it and so the fence was set at like 22”. Well, he got a few inches in and it bound up and threw this entire piece of plywood at him, almost broke his arm and continued another 20 feet behind him. Cutting boards that are as wide as they are long pretty much equals a crosscut and becomes very dangerous using the rip fence.
Love your videos, Steve. I just powered up my monster Delta, and it's a very intimidating saw. Trying to run through the checklist in my head before every cut. Thanks!
It's also worth noting that the newer track/plunge saws have anti-kickback mechanisms better than a riving knife installed (Makita 40v, the newest Festool 36v, Mafell, etc.). This means coupled with a TSO or Woodpeckers parallel guide system, certain track saws are potentially safer than table saws and even more accurate. Coupled with a good router table, the only benefit of a table saw is doing certain cuts faster (e.g. dados). You can't even approach the level of safety this combination provides unless you spend considerably more money investing in a Sawstop AND using the guards, but even then there are certain cuts that are always going to be more dangerous. Unless someone has the room and money for such a table saw system, I think most weekend warriors are better off with a plunge saw, parallel guides and a decent router.
Great as always. Something no one mentions that I do is use a foot switch with my table saw etc.
I personally would not use a foot switch. When setting up the saw for a cut one might inadvertently turn the saw on.
@@dwightl5863 My saw will not come on with the foot switch only off. You must use the push switch to turn it on.
That’s a good feature on your saw but not all saws have that feature. A number of new saw owners could think this would be a good idea without realizing the harmful consequences of an unintended turn on of their saw.
As ever Steve very good sound advice.your the man.
Great stuff, Steve. I would only add the importance of a zero clearance throat plate for very thin rips. Your saw (like my old Delta) has HUUUGE gaps, which allow smaller pieces to fall into the saw, or bind the blade.
I've only had one woodworking incident, I was turning a large 4x4x16 on a lathe and forgot to turn the speed down. After switching it on it sped up fiercely and before I could shut it down the post flew off smacking me in the chest, fortunately no broken bones just bruises and a now set in stone reminder to always check and reset speeds as required
Good stuff, as usual.
I never move until my blade stops. That’s my rule. Two seconds, I can wait that two seconds.
I just made a riving knife for my old DeWalt and a splitter for my cabinet Unisaw, plus I have my “Steve Ramsey” crosscut sled and other jigs to facilitate safe conduct.🙂