For certain tablesaw cuts, such as ripping narrow stock, a featherboard can go a long way toward improving safety and accuracy. Unlike other commercial featherboards, which lock in the miter slot, the Magswitch Pro Magnet Featherboard mounts in an instant anywhere on the saw table. Adjusting or removing it is just as easy.

The secret is a pair of magnets that are activated or deactivated simply by turning a knob. Butt the Magswitch against the edge of the stock (the featherboard must be in front of the blade), apply sideways pressure to bend the thin fingers slightly, then turn on the two magnets to lock it in place.

The Magswitch worked well and is a convenient safety accessory for any shop. The pro model sells for $50 at www.woodcraft.com (a standard version with smaller magnets sells for $38). Magswitch will soon offer a model for those who cut with the rip fence on the left side of the tablesaw blade.

Photo: Thomas McKenna

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Sawstop Miter Gauge

It has a toothed angle-setting rack that is extremely solid, accurate, and easy to use, and it offers all of the features I love in a miter gauge, including the ability to add an auxiliary wood fence, and a flip-stop that will accommodate it.

Buy at Amazon

3M Blue Tape

One of the most versatile accessories to have in the shop: from layout to seaming veneer. It has enough stretch to pull joints together.

Buy at Amazon

Starrett 12-in. combination square

This accurate, robust, well-machined, easy-to-read combo square is as great as ever.

Buy at Amazon