A step-by-step guide to making your first table saw cuts. TABLESAW BASICS.

Got a new table saw? This video is a checklist for safely making your first cuts.
Learn how to get started in woodworking and set up shop for less than $1000. Download my FREE GUIDE ► theweekendwoodworker.com/tww-...
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#woodworking #tablesaw #checklist

[@A1BASE]

Nice video. I'd be interested whether you think there's a correlation between experience and injury rate. I suspect that most accidents with these things happen to medium-experienced woodworkers who get complacent / careless. The first few times you turn on a table saw you KNOW it's really dangerous. After a few hundred cuts you start to forget that, and that's when you get hurt.

[@SteveRamsey]

That's an interesting question. I think in the beginning, there's a safety learning curve where it's important to at least understand what can potentially happen and how to avoid injuries. With a solid base, you are probably hyper-aware of everything you do. Then as you get more time in, it's easy to get complacent. You might be right: that medium-experienced zone is probably the most dangerous time. That said, plenty of injuries happen to experienced woodworkers. We might be well aware of safe procedures and do everything right, but one moment of losing focus can lead to an injury. It's the very definition of an accident. Kind of like how you can drive a car for years but still space out and run a stop sign. I strongly believe in making dry-runs a habit. I honestly, seriously do this all the time. There have been procedures where I've made dry-runs and just didn't feel 100% confident. That's when I know I need to come up with a different strategy for making the cut. I'd love to hear what other people have to say about this question!

[@Thirdplace4life]

I think the more experienced get hurt more often. I know this from experience lol. I feel that the more wood working you do the more you get into "the zone" and start letting your guard down because it starts becoming like second nature. That's all it takes then, bam, you get hurt.

[@brucejohnson1264]

You can get injured regardless of your level of experience. When you're starting out, you make mistakes due to lack of knowledge. When you have some experience, you get complacent and lose focus for an instant and have an accident that way. Then you get lots of experience, you start to thing that the rules don't apply to you, and again... an accident.

[@vileguile4]

I just got a table saw and from first cut to the last one i did i did a dry-run and i always will be. Thank you so much for making this video! I'd like to keep my fingers and hands!

[@bobdesilets2077]

@@vileguile4 Please do! I'm recovering from a very fortunate accident, where I lost focus and only required three stitches (and lost two fingernails!)

[@aaronalquiza9680]

The "imagine your cut" or "do a dry run" advice from Steve is the first thing that I do everytime.

[@robertanderson2812]

Same.

[@nholt]

Yes!! Such good advice!

[@johntaylor1359]

Still no guard........WHY,!!

[@MrJaxparadize]

The best way to do it! Yup!

[@dereks.5817]

Fundamentally changed how I work now. Priceless advice.

[@anthonytozzi454]

"Don't fear that power, but always respect it". Great nugget of wisdom, Steve. Applicable to other aspects of life, not just woodworking. I love your videos.

[@benjaminhr1331]

Steve is like the Bill Nye of woodwork. So inspiring, helpful and fun!

[@sundar6535]

I am 67 years old retired amateur just started using table saw, your video is so interesting, I love it.

[@jeffceriotti]

So many videos touch on safety but only as an after thought. As a beginner I am so grateful this video focused on safety alone. I would love to see a series of safety videos for all power tools if you havent done it already. You do them very well! Thanks

[@Luke11ify]

I absolutely love this! I'm almost 24 years-old, avid computer/office guy, but I've always loved getting my hands dirty and handsy. I worked at Home Depot as a stocker for a year and stocked everything imaginable including the heavy table saws, routers, sanders, blades, sand paper bands, etc. I've thought about doing woodwork for years but never seriously considered it. But now as I have a very nice job with an above average income and a yearn to get away from the computer, I plan on investing $1,000 to $1,500 into the equipment he listed as well as tools, materials and etc. I want to start small and steady and advance and make furniture as a hobby, for family/gifts and possibly to sell! These videos are astounding and I plan on following all of them - thank you for this video, it was great to find your channel!

[@PetrolPatrol]

That sounds great dude! how you getting on?

[@Wooster77]

Excellent video. Just got my first table saw and I’m glad I watched this before I use it.

[@ravioli9171]

just made a cross cut with a rip fence and got a stern lesson that I should probably learn how to operate a tool before operating it... who would've thought?

[@NomenNescio99]

Steve, your videos are truly in a class of their own. Packed with relevant information and very fun to watch - with a positive attitude from start to finish. You will get my vote for the title planet earth's first ambassador of woodworking.

[@SteveRamsey]

Haha...well thanks Niklas!

[@frankpero7609]

I agree. I love his approach/attitude. He makes it enjoyable.

[@songoodivehi7896]

Greetings from the Maldives, Steve is a good actor and flawless woodworker

[@johntaylor1359]

Still no guard!!!

[@johnlallemand8554]

3400 SKIL SAW BLADE NUT --LEFT OR RIGHT THREAD ?

[@coreypacillo8204]

As someone who is beginning to work with wood, I loved your presentation of each small step. This was extremely well done.

[@gman5051]

Thanks ! for the refresher .... I’m an experienced table saw owner ... never hurts to go over good safety instruction and keep your ten fingers and your two eyes ..

[@Buywithdom]

Literally every part of this video spoke to me from finally jumping in after watching videos to being startled by the sound. I really appreciated learning the tips about imagining your cut and watching the rip fence and board rather than the blade. I think these tips will help alleviate some of the fear I still have towards the tool ! Everything was so well explained too, coming from a beginners perspective!

[@SpideyScott72]

Its nice to see you making these "basic" videos again. There really hasn't been anything else out there as detailed and straight forward as your videos. As a beginner, I can't tell you how empowering and confident your videos have made me feel over the years. I have completed more than I ever believed I could and I have you to thank for that.

[@DeltaEdCa]

Wow, I remember when you got your PC table saw. That means I’ve been watching your videos for more than ten years. You do a great job of teaching.

[@QuietJust]

I saw a video you made a few years back where you gave the same dry run advice. It's something I ALWAYS do.

[@HawkeyeJ14]

I work with my tools very infrequently, so I like reviewing these kinds of videos before I start on any project. You're helping me stay safe and professional. Thank you for your time and effort, it does a lot of good!

[@offimoo9995]

Hey man! I’m a 13 year old, with your help I started woodworking with just Leftover wood from home refurnishing Cheap chisel Cheap hammer Electric sander Some 4 dollar clamps from Walmart. This just goes to show how much you can make with so little, and such good of a teacher! Stay safe!

[@jend4128]

Thanks for the lesson! I will help me with my new saw and upcoming projects.

[@Sbravo94]

I've watch this video a hundred times, like 20 times everytime I'm about to make a cut , you are making me feel more comfortable with it

[@kylecorbett3191]

Just want to give credit where it’s due. Thank you so much for all your woodworking/safety videos. Calm voice and presentation with tons of info. I really cannot thank you enough. I hope all is well and thank you !

[@Jezz_Mcfly]

Another great one Steve - I dare say you've saved a few fingers with this. Thanks

[@febeleven]

My Son in Law gave me his table saw and he explained to me how to use it (but I needed a refresher and I found your video and I'm so glad I did. I watched a few videos and yours is the best, you explained what side to cut and how to line it up and all the safety tips. Thank You!

[@MakerBeach]

Great tip to imagine the cut before making it. Whenever cutting long heavy stock I like to do a practice run with the saw off and the blade down. I want to know ahead of time if I'm going run out of outfeed space or if something is going to get unstable during the cut. If so, make it right and do another practice run!

[@cameronphillips789]

This is exactly the kind of video series I’d love to watch more of! It’s really great to get a better guide for absolute beginners. One change I would like to see you make for future versions of this is to slow down your presentation in the first half, and also to get a bit more detailed (or maybe more visual guides like graphical overlays) when giving terminology. I myself am very new to this hobby and loved this video. Can’t wait to see more like it from you.

[@wanda04g]

I used my table saw today after watching this video. Thanks for your help.

[@David-sf9ut]

Just bought a Rigid table saw last night and now I'm learning to use it! Great guide, ill be watching your videos for now on!

[@krystalaporte8639]

Love your videos !! Definitely giving me alot more confidence on using the table saw for the first time ! I've been using a circular saw for every cut which hasn't been the easiest for a first timer! Thanks again!!

[@chris772]

Thank you for the videos! Because of you, I've taken the leap into woodworking. Appreciate the REAL candid advice. Amazing how you still remember how it feels to be a newbie and how table saws can be intimidating. I feel much more comfortable after watching your videos (over and over) :)

[@victorgutierrez5826]

GOOD ADVICE STEVE FOR EVERY BODY ESPECIALLY FOR US WHO START WORKING WITH A TABLE SAW

[@pete360]

Great video. Thank you! I just got my first table saw a few weeks ago. I’m excited by seeing the help it brings to my shop in making good accurate cuts but have definitely found myself having a lot of questions I hadn’t thought of before, all of which have been answered in this video. Thanks again!!

[@o.g.bwoodwork]

You’re such a great presenter to the camera and everything is so well thought out to make it seem flawless. Well done mate.

[@SteveRamsey]

Well thank you. I really appreciate that!

[@markwilkinson5401]

100% agree! You’ve taken the mystery away and set some great guidelines for safety which is paramount of course.

[@johntaylor1359]

Yes but Steve forgets one vital?? No guard......dear chap never replies to this comment....

[@o.g.bwoodwork]

@@johntaylor1359 I’ve found a guard more troublesome than helpful for accurate woodworking to be honest. I still use my riving knife, but I’ve cut off the top that attaches to the guard, so I can do rabbets and groves with it still in place.

[@johntaylor1359]

Abso rubbish why no bloody guard Steve. Please answer

[@justinstrik7125]

imagine the cut? I dont even have a table saw, I'm just imagining being a woodworker.

[@ReverendTed]

Careful! That's the first step!

[@johntaylor1359]

Still no guard

[@reddotmusic9281]

hahaha thanks for the laugh

[@callumthompson1023]

Go for it try some woodworking it’s very good feeling once you set out to build something and you finish go have fun and the possibilities are endless

[@danielson2454]

LMFAO

[@tlkd5779]

This was the best how to table saw cut video! Thankyou for sharing ❤

[@onesoldierserving]

I value your videos so much, Steve. I truly do. Thank you for continuing to make them. I always look forward to them.

[@shericreates]

I need this. I have had a table saw, in a box for 3 years. Scared to open it up. LOL Had a kick back years ago and it scared the heck out of me. Last time I ever used the table saw. Time to be brave!

[@stephenschaffenberger6765]

I had a similar experience about 8 years ago when I first started using a table saw... but that’s because no one taught me how to properly use it! Kickback is actually very easy to prevent, even without a riving knife (although that will certainly help). Some tips: 1) Make sure your blade is spinning at maximum rotation before you try to push material through. 2) For rip cuts, expect the blade to want to push material towards you. Your job is to provide resistance to that movement as you move the material against the spin. This is a very nuanced dance as pushing too much or too little can be dangerous. Kickback can sometimes occur when you try to push material through but you aren’t providing ample resistance with your right hand as you push. This takes a little practice because it’s kind of a “feel” thing. It is nerve racking the first few times, but as long as proper resistance is there, it will not kickback. 3) Make sure you are maintaining a steady pressure into the fence as you rip material. The material will not naturally travel through the blade in a straight line and if it wavers too much, the pieces can pinch the blade, causing kickback. The table saw will work with you but only when you keep your material locked into your fence. 4) Push material into the fence beneath the blade (closer to you). Avoid pushing material against the blade as this can also create a pinch that might cause kickback. 5). Never ever pivot material as it goes through the teeth of the blade. Always keep your material pushed up against your fence and as straight as possible. 6) This one is the least intuitive, but incredibly useful. Keep calm and (as long as your hands are clear from the blade) you can actually stop moving material while maintaining resistance in both directions (against the teeth and against the fence). You can hold material still as the blade spins in the middle of a cut and, if you are applying enough resistance, It should remain still. This is a great default if you are feeling overwhelmed mid cut. It should also enable you to turn off the power as the blade only kicks back if it’s meeting resistance. Keep watching table saw videos to get a better idea of how to position your body and learn technique. Good luck!

[@shericreates]

@@stephenschaffenberger6765 Thank you so much! Yes, I binge watch tool movies constantly and read many magazines. Thank you so much for your advice&

[@shericreates]

@Fist Bump Thank you so much for the tips!

[@jakegarcia1796]

Steve, I've been binge watching all your videos and I literally JUST bought a table saw today, perfect timing! I know you have another table saw video but this really broke it down and explained every aspect to getting started and I really appreciate it! Your videos are great and I've very excited to start working on some of my own projects!

[@SteveRamsey]

Oh that's awesome! Stay safe and have fun. You'll be making all kinds of things really soon! 😀

[@johntaylor1359]

"Stay safe" how about using a guard Steve

[@lhtsnakes1]

Greatest table saw video on the internet.

[@mikegrier2829]

I’m fairly new to woodworking and just bought my first table saw. I greatly appreciate that this video was made and is still available to watch. It’s a great way to review the safety precautions I should be taking.

[@UncleIvan1]

with all the videos and KZbin rs , I can honestly say your information i remember the most. you have a talent teaching without making it boring or too complicated. I had to subscribe

[@andriesmatthijs1215]

I just got my first table saw. Very good timing! Greetings from Belgium. 👍

[@brimtlgtr]

"Imagine the cut you're about to make... make it a habit." I remember the first time I watched one of your videos when you mentioned this. I've followed it since, and it's now just part of my workflow: dry run before the saw goes on. In another video (maybe that same one), you said something along the lines of "if it doesn't feel safe, don't do it." I do this as well as part of that dry run. I'm more than two years into this woodworking journey and can't seem to learn enough. Thanks Steve!

[@sheilaigne252]

Wish this vid came out when I started using my saw 5 yrs ago. Appreciate how concise your tutorial is.

[@gainoffunction9486]

Steve, I spent much of 2020 watching wood working videos and you figured prominently. I recently bought a table saw and I just wanted to thank you for this particular video because of your empathetic observation that newbies would find the table saw intimidating...yes, just turning the thing on & hearing the noise for the first time grabs your attention. Visualizing the cut & hand placement is great advice. I'm now cutting away confidently, ever respectful of the saw. Thank you!

[@Nebx1989]

Great video! For the part where you demonstrate usage of the push sticks, it should probably be explicitly mentioned that the the 2nd push stick you use (with your left hand) shouldn't exert pressure towards the blade on the piece you're cutting. Last thing you'd want is for it to bind with the blade.

[@bobt2522]

I had a tablesaw injury this week and it was from a hazard that is not mentioned often. I was swapping blades. The saw was unplugged. I had removed the blade and set it aside. I was reaching into the saw to clean some of the build-up of sawdust. I cut my arm on the sharp edge of the table casting. It was a minor cut, but it could have been worse. Remember that the internal parts may have sharp edges.

[@Mbxoom]

Thank you Steve for this nice YT. I wish I had seen it before I got my left index injured with a kickback of my cut piece. The saw I was using over 2 years has no tubing knife or blade guard. I was so confident that I will not let my fingers on the blade but ... that’s not totally your control. A simple kickback could chop one or more fingers out of your hands. Certainly learned the lesson the hard way. Now I’m in to safety and never compromise on that.

[@tomfile3131]

Just got a free Delta table saw yesterday. Thanks for the instructional video.

[@biologicalagent]

Steve: seeing one of your recent posts, I’m a bit bummed. You don’t give yourself enough credit. Perhaps you’ve been immersed in this for awhile and can’t see the forest for the trees. You are literally one of, if not THE best KZbinr in your category. The video quality, sound and camera angles are absolutely on point. Your confidence is comforting and your experience is super obvious. Keep on making videos man. I look forward to all of them.

[@Rosered2318]

Echoed - I'm doing my own floors for the first time and just sent a link to the video to my sister saying how helpful, useful, and well thought out it was. Especially the planning and doing a dry run. Thank you for your videos

[@johntaylor1359]

All very chummy but still no guard

[@VOICEFORFREEDOM1776]

I love this guy. Great instructor. I love when folks are masters at their craft but eager to spread safety and knowledge. Thank you for all your videos. I appreciate you spending hours editing and taking time to help folks like me learn more.

[@robertlumsden942]

just got my first table saw. this was super helpful.

[@sladelerch6686]

Great video, Steve! I just bought my first table saw today and this video gives me some confidence- I especially appreciate the recommendation to visualize each cut. Keep up the great work!

[@isaacisaac2713]

The best table saw introduction I've ever seen!

[@CriticalThinker1967]

I often get shitty watching DIY tip videos that confuse the hell out of me but this is a good one. Everything I needed to know. Thanks

[@lelandfranklin3487]

MANY thanks for the video! Inherited Dad's portable Delta table saw when he passed several years ago. Have been intimidated by it...so it's been gathering dust. Will try it now in a safe manner!

[@Maxid1]

2:25 You got that saw 10 years ago? How is it even possible that I've been watching your channel for more than 10 years??

[@mirandacutler1501]

This video came in perfect timing! I just got my first table saw this week and I’m going to be using it this weekend. I was really intimidated by it, but I feel a bit more confident after watching this video. Thanks!

[@o.g.bwoodwork]

Miranda Cutler what make did you go for?

[@SteveRamsey]

Fantastic! On Monday, you'll be imagining all the things you want to make! Stay safe and happy woodworking. 😀

[@vileguile4]

Remember the dry-runs! When i did it for my first cut there were several potentially disastrous things i noticed! A habit im starting after watching stumpy nubs accident is to have my cell phone on a table so i can at least call emergency number. Not easy pulling a phone out of your pocket with two fingers while also bleeding...

[@mightress]

@@vileguile4 i always have my phone where i could easy pick it up just in case.

[@Rosered2318]

Ditto Miranda! I feel so relieved to have this video

[@Aenyn]

Thank you for all your videos and safety tips! I recently got a table saw and miter saw to do some home improvement projects, and your videos were a lot of help!

[@lizbleakley]

Excellent video for beginners, which is me. Thank you for making this!!

[@subungulate]

Steve, have you/can you do a video about improving a table saw, miter saw, router, etc station ie building a fence, jig, slide, or whatever that makes your woodworking experience so much better?

[@ReverendTed]

The first thing I built with my table saw was a crosscut sled. The second thing I built was a 45-degree sled. (FWIW: I used plans from the website Family Handyman.)

[@janinelew2483]

Okay, how did you know that I just bought my first table saw two days ago and set it up?! I have also been watching your videos over and over again for at least two years and have learned so much. I even bought your weekend class. I haven't plugged it in yet because I am a little afraid of it. I did add the guard as well as the anti kick thingy. My Gripper came yesterday but I haven't assembled it yet. Perfect timing on this video! I needed that boost of encouragement. Thanks Steve!

[@o.g.bwoodwork]

Janine Lew great to hear you’ve bought your first table saw. What make did you go for ?

[@janinelew2483]

O.G.B Woodwork It’s a Dewalt DWE7485.

[@o.g.bwoodwork]

Janine Lew very nice. I love dewalt tools. That’ll be extremely precise. 😁👍

[@janinelew2483]

@@o.g.bwoodwork I watched a lot of reviews before I made my decision. I already had a Dewalt miter saw and scroll saw and I like them as well.

[@o.g.bwoodwork]

Janine Lew I’ve only got an impact driver and drill made by dewalt, but i can’t wait to grow my collection. Wow, you’ve got quite the collection. Have you made any videos with them yet?

[@DanLee8884]

Just bought a home with the wife and we wanted to fix some things and save money. Bought me a table saw bc I also wanted to try picking up a woodworking hobby during covid. I took shop in middle school so basically I dont remember anything. This video is super helpful!

[@lorebeth]

Wow - this is exactly what I needed. I’ve been learning multiple DIY projects since becoming an empty nester and have been really nervous about trying the table saw. After watching your video I decided to give it a shot and ripped a couple of wainscoting panels, really careful to follow all of your instructions. Loved what you said about not having fear but being careful to respect [its power]. Now I need to learn how to miter corners. Thank you for sharing!

[@pielou10]

14 seconds in, you have no idea how relatable that intro was haha

[@gregkoeller4732]

Anyone else think its funny how Steve looks like he's gotten younger over the past 10 years rather than older?

[@0thers1d3]

For real dude! It's crazy. Lol

[@NIH1966]

definitely

[@alexhoselton2434]

No kidding!

[@TyyDaymon]

Must have a skin product channel too lol

[@williammcfarland6979]

Healthier for sure!

[@timthomas9105]

Good job 👍 demonstrating. Bought a new one in 1985. Just a hobby then and now. The rules for safety haven't changed. Still have ALL 10 fingers and never been gut punched by flying wood. If I were developing a video curriculum for Woodworkers this would be on the list.

[@nholt]

Best video I’ve seen so far because one of the first things he says is to use eye protection and ear protection AND he says to get a feel for how it sounds and turning it on and off. I agree 10000%!! It can be scary the first time you turn one on and hear the noise and see the blade. Get comfortable with that feeling!

[@orange-micro-fiber9740]

10:57 I miss the micro jig ads :( They were really funny.

[@jimaronson2323]

I agree. Those were great. And, I bought one.

[@bartkent4511]

I've been think that for the last couple of videos!

[@hansangb]

I chuckled at the knowing smile on Steve's face!

[@christopherdahle9985]

I came to the comments section to say the same thing!

[@ratholeproductions]

Steve, you've got to make the Micro Jig ads again, we love them!

[@jontgreene]

This is exactly what I needed. I'm left handed and my uncle saw me cut wood on the table saw and he said, "WHOAH!" I learned my body placement was very dangerous.

[@hansdegroot8549]

I'm left handed as well. I don't have a table saw yet. I'm close buying one (already for years). From time to time I use an upside-down mounted circular saw but as Steve says, it's far from ideal. I still don't know if I should try to learn to use a table saw (when I finally will have one) as a left-hander or as a right hander. I'm 100% left handed. With my right hand I'm not able to write, open jars, use a knife or any one-hand-operated handtools such as a hammer, screw-driver, wrench or whatsoever.

[@jontgreene]

@@hansdegroot8549 Same here. I was reading that moving the fence to the other side of the blade can help. Since I share the table saw with right handed folks this really isn't an easy option. Oh well, something will work out. Have a good one

[@MRSketch09]

@@hansdegroot8549 Probably should learn to use it the way he uses it in the video. Unless you don't like your balls, or thighs..

[@logicalChimp]

Depending on your saw, you may have the option to mount the Rip Fence on the left and use the Mitre on the right (although, from what I've seen, most saws that allow the fence on the left have less rip-width available compared to the right)... this may allow you to use your saw comfortably and safely without right-handed conventions...

[@johnwinn4213]

@@hansdegroot8549 try moving the fence to the other side of the blade also there are some right tilt saws out there

[@cesara7478]

Sir. You just saved my fingers. Thank you for appearing in my recommendation section. Great videos and awesome teaching techniques

[@MountTom13652]

Thanks Steve! I've been getting into woodworking and have been doing all my projects with a circular saw and a router with no table. It worked but nothing was real precise. Always thought, "I need a table saw." Finally pulled the trigger and bought one. Got it home all excited to do some cutting, got it set up, read the manual, then went out and fired it up. "Whoa, this thing as some power!", I said out loud to myself. That's when I went in and found this video. Great! Have watched several of your other videos and always liked them, you explain everything so it's clearly understood. Now, after watching this video, I feel more confident and am ready to make my first cut. Thanks again!

[@deborahdunlap7168]

Thank you for this. I always wanted to do woodworking, but when I was young, girls were not allowed. As a result, i have been intimidated to learn. I built electronic circuits, to my parents dismay, but never owned the tools to do woodworking until now. My ex-boyfriend was teaching me, but he got cancer and died. Thank you for making these videos!

[@FullNelsonEats]

Good luck I hope everything works out for you!

[@matthewjohnragland]

Where's the micro-jig ad?! This is a perfect opportunity!

[@Asmuk]

11:06

[@matthewjohnragland]

@@Asmuk Not the same, I want an OG micro-jig ad, while Steve is in mid-sentence :)

[@cdrice999]

"This video is _not_ sponsored by---" "THE GRRRRRIPPER, FROM MICRO-JIG!..." 😎

[@johntaylor1359]

Nor is it sponsored by hospital.......NO GUARD

[@drewpowers9030]

Watched your videos and I made my first table saw cut this week! And it was not only OK; it was GOOD! Best part of all: I felt safe and in control. Thanks for all the good advice.

[@magaisacult2023]

Just bought a table saw, no prior experience! This basic video should be required to buy one! It answered almost every question I had, and stopped me from making several mistakes I would have made, possibly causing injury!!

[@johntaylor1359]

No guard no fingers

[@Jen22345]

I just started my woodworking journey, and knowing nothing I have been super thoughtful in everything I am doing. HOWEVER, I literally made every mistake you outlined. I am so thankful I found you and plan to full watch every video you have before I go about making anything else. THANK YOU!

[@brucemezei1129]

After setting the fence, I always make a practice cut(s) on shorter scrap wood to make sure it's set at the correct distance from the blade. Provides absolute accuracy.

[@jamishep]

Thanks Steve, great instruction. I've had a table saw sitting in the box for 3 months now and your video has given me the courage to unpack it and give it a go. Many thanks.

[@DawnRenae22]

Excellent suggestions especially the imaginary dry run. Thank you

[@crossan008]

When asking how high the blade should be above the stock, ask yourself how much of your finger you want to cut off!

[@edwardholmes91]

I find when cutting melamine, the higher the blade the less chipout that I seem to get. Though a piece of masking or painters tape usually reduces it.

[@dwayneattard5265]

the only reason for having a high blade is trying to get a cut close to 90 degrees, but in that case, you might want to use a jigsaw or bandsaw

[@mattfrank5314]

one tooth above the cut. alot of excess blade seems to reduce accuracy. also depends of the blade and what your cutting for combo blade and real wood i find it gives less tearout and burns.

[@robcpwoodturner]

I was told that the gullet should just clear the thickness of the wood

[@Not_TVs_Frank]

I've often heard that you want the blade one tooth width higher than the wood. You get a smooth cut and the chips can clear the blade. However, in harder woods this can lead to burning because the teeth spend more time in the kerf. If your work is getting burn marks, try raising the blade a bit and see if you get better results.

[@ony64]

Great video as usual! I missed one important piece of advice though: never go past the blade with your against-the-fence push stick.

[@SteveRamsey]

Good point. Keep it pressed toward the fence in front of the blade so you aren't pushing against the blade.

[@johntaylor1359]

You can only push whilst holding stick?? No fingers no hold......NO GUARD

[@johntaylor1359]

Hi Steve. Why do you not use a guard.......and why do you not comment on my multiple comments regarding ' no guard

[@chewbacca5986]

Love this Saw 101 vid!! Incredibly clear, logical, organized, your cut to the chase delivery, are perfect!. This is the best educational introduction to the MUST RESPECT intimidating saw tool I have ever seen. Well Done Steve!!!! Thank you, thank you!! 👍🏻🌞⚒💜

[@erikandersen4811]

I’ve been doing lots of construction projects where wider tolerances were acceptable. Now I’m stepping into projects that need a ton more precision and your videos have been invaluable to me. Thank you.

[@carcface]

Gotta be honest: when you held it up and it didn't cut to the Micro-Jig ad, my brain kinda broke. Great video!

[@JustAnotherDayToday]

Never, never use a table saw without a riving knife-I had a small lapse in judgement and bingo kickback. Believe me it hurts- *_really_* hurts.

[@DennisMathias]

I thought he did have a riving knife.

[@fecnde]

You’re lucky to be able to write that warning. There’s nasty videos of that

[@MRSketch09]

@@DennisMathias The op in the video did, I think "GMOOH" is just telling everyone who watches this video/reads his comment.

[@markbryan9989]

Most of us have been there! I keep the block of wood (grenade) that was supposed to be "just one quick cut" near my saw as a reminder. My ribs thank me.

[@trevorrori4683]

Get Me Out of Here why do some people take it off in the first place? Is their a certain cut that requires you take it off? But damn that sounds terrifying. The power they have took me a while to get used to. I can’t imagine that throwing something at you.

[@leeleemaggs1347]

I am so grateful for people like you taking the time to do a video like this. Thank you for all the awesome tips!

[@stephen6220]

These are so good. I would be happy to pay just to see these, not just for a special course. Keep them up. Great contribution to new and experienced woodworkers worldwide.

[@KellyConcepts]

Was shutting the saw off with your knee part of the tutorial? It was very vague. I need every detail on this tool. 😉

[@tessabuesgens5831]

It really depends, I'm shorter so sometimes I kick my foot up there for shut-off.

[@KellyConcepts]

@@tessabuesgens5831 okay so anything other than your hands sounds like it should work

[@BluBuryPi]

Being able to turn off the saw without removing your hands from the workpiece is a great advantage. Should the saw start bogging down or the piece behaves oddly, you can quickly turn off the saw with your leg or knee and hopefully avoid an accident. Having to move your hands to turn off the saw can be dangerous and result in an accident

[@MC-zr7hl]

@@KellyConcepts I'd tell you what I use to turn mine off but it wouldn't be very appropriate lol

[@KellyConcepts]

@@MC-zr7hl Hahahaha I think I see where you're going with this

[@bartkent4511]

Am I the only one that misses the gripper "commercial"

[@jimaronson2323]

I miss them too. I imagine there are a lot of us that do.

[@bluewanderer9903]

For me, da noob, this is gold. Thank you very much.

[@rw123948]

This is a great video, so helpful - and it perfectly describes my situation. Just got a table saw, complete noob at woodworking, super into not cutting off my finger.

[@dangkolache]

I get all heeby jeeby when I watch John Heisz's videos, he always just uses his fingers along his fence and as much experience as he has, I still just see him losing a couple of those fingers one day

[@RogerFPrida]

"Theres no dumb questions when taking about powertools"..... Challenge accepted :-)

[@SteveRamsey]

😂

[@lukewhite9237]

"Should I touch the blade will spinning to see if it is sharp?"

[@doubledarefan]

If I cannot get the saw to turn off, should I use it to cut its own cord❓ (That happened. Not a stuck switch, but did not see where the cord was. Good thing I had a spare cord on hand)

[@lukewhite9237]

"Should I lick the blade while moving to clean it?"

[@andyfunke9484]

Should I use my table saw to make exactly sized French fries, and if so, which is better for a push stick, a stalk of celery or a carrot? I ask because slicing bologna on the miter saw had some issues. FYI, bologna in a dust collector, well let's just say...........

[@sleepingtiger4436]

ive seen this video 3 times. and i already have used my saw for the past 4 months! THANK YOU FOR YOUR WORK!

[@Merito932]

I cannot thank you enough for this video every detail presented in this video and the way it was presented helped me immensely it was like you were reading my thoughts and knowing my concerns and just answered them one by one I feel so much confident now

[@Robyrob7771]

Never assume your table saw blade and slots and fence will be square “out of the box” check and adjust as needed first thing.

[@0thers1d3]

Yeah, just got a used one... can't get it to cut straight... no idea what to do...

[@Robyrob7771]

Square the blade to the mitre slots?

[@bigfoxki]

Just ordered my first tablesaw. I am having anxiety now.

[@bigfoxki]

@George Glass Being a weeb is good, better than being an ass.

[@bigfoxki]

@George Glass Still marginally better than any lifeless loser tries to provoke random stranger.

[@johntaylor1359]

Now now gents. Less of weeb talk.....how about. Chatting reference no guard

[@beachthor1]

I might be overcautious but I'm an ER RN and see the damage these things can do, the video is exactly what I needed to get started, thanks!!

[@austyndell2866]

Steve, I hope you read this because I just wanted to say you have single handedly encouraged me to get in to wood working. The way you explain things and your walkthrough is simply amazing. The learning curve was so great and the tools and equipment was so intimidating. That is, until I found your page. Thank you so much, Steve. I am building night stands this weekend and I couldn't have gotten to my current skill level without your encouragement. I never comment on videos but I wanted to let you know my deep appreciation for your passion and the time you take on your videos to help people like me. Please, keep making your videos because there are thousands of people out there like me that need these videos to teach and encourage.

[@SteveRamsey]

Thanks Austyn! I really appreciate that! 👍😀

[@laurielloyd2764]

50yrs old single and decided I want to make a gazebo! Designed it myself, have all my measurements all my wood bought a used table saw and now thanks to you I'm going to go make my first cut! I will be power watching all your video's starting tonight! Thanks