Table Saw Guard: All About Being Safe

There are three different kinds of table saw guards. They can be of great help when woodworking in your shop. Always remember, safety first.

A table saw guard called a stock guard can inconvenience its user by getting in the way of the cut. The splitter, or the metal part of the guard spreads the board to the opposite side as the board goes into the saw. If the board isn’t aligned properly, the board will catch causing it to kick back. Kickback paws have sharp teeth on the ends that catch the board as it passes, which helps prevent kickback.

Another type of table saw guard is the aftermarket guard. It can be added to any professional table saw. It is very similar to the stock guard in that it has the same type of problems.

The overhead guard is a type of table saw guard that has a large structure that is suspended above the saw. It doesn’t include a splitter to impede the wood’s progress across the table. The swinging arm on this guard can be moved out of the way when placing the wood on the saw. Swing it into place and lock it down when you are ready to make the cut. The guard cover is clear making it easier to see the blade while making the cut. This cover prevents you from getting your fingers near the blade while It’s running. The guard can be raised or lowered so that you can accommodate different height woods. It also has its own version of the kickback paws, which can be found underneath the clear cover. It has two teeth to help prevent kickback, but doesn’t have a splitter causing kickback when improperly aligned. Also, the arm on the saw is adjustable to allow you to move it back when working on a large piece such as a cabinet door.

Some people have such disregard for table saw guards that come with most table saws. The splitters are flimsy, the blade guards are always in the way and they are a general pain. When you are in your shop working beyond the threshold of fatigue, you make mistakes. You might lose a finger or a part of one to the blade. Working without a blade guard is dangerous. Not paying adequate attention is even more dangerous. Do not be like the few that continue to use the table saw without their splitters and guards. Shop around and find one for your table saw, a perfect match. Find one that you can work with easily and suits your saw.

Many fine hardware stores carry table saw guards. You can easily find what you are looking for so you can be safe while working your hobby. Read the directions and all precautions before getting started. Always follow the safety rules in the booklet. This could very well save you a finger, or part of one. When you feel fatigued in your shop, stop and come back to your hobby at a later date. Don’t find yourself meeting a deadline and no saw guard on the saw. You will be glad you had a saw guard.