Q:

I stopped using the splitter and blade guard on my cabinet saw years ago because they interfered with too many cuts. I can’t afford a new saw with a riving knife and guard, so what can I do to improve the safety of my current saw?

Frank Pettis, Chesterfield, MO

A:

I have an older saw, too, and understand your frustration. There are two potential dangers: your hand contacting the blade and the workpiece kicking back. To minimize the risk of hand contact, I use a push stick. To reduce the risk of kickback, I make a zero-clearance throat insert (see Fundamentals, FWW #200), raising the blade as high as it will go, and glue a stub splitter into the back of the kerf. After the glue has dried, raise the blade again and cut into the splitter so it hugs the blade like a riving knife. You won’t be able to work with the blade at full height or when it is tilted, but I’ve found that one insert with a splitter works for more than 90% of my work. The combination of the stub splitter and push stick is a huge improvement in safety over nothing at all. If you want to replace your blade guard as well, take a look at the aftermarket options.

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Ridgid EB4424 Oscillating Spindle/Belt Sander

With five spindles sized from 1/2 in. to 2 in. and a 4 X 24-in. belt, this sander has become a staple in many a shop Fine Woodworking visits.

Buy at Amazon

Craftsman Random Orbit Sander

While this sander is among the least expensive models in the test, its performance ranks among the best. The stock removal was excellent, and dust collection was solid when used with a vacuum. It handles really smoothly, too, and has a tall body that fit my hand nicely whether I was holding it from above or around the waist.

Buy at Amazon

Fein Turbo II HEPA Wet/Dry Dust Extractor

Among the most powerful HEPA-rated shop vacs on the market, Fein’s Turbo II is quieter, more compact, and nimbler than the rest.

Buy at Amazon