Table Saw Blade Guard Myths BUSTED!

Five myths about blade guards that might put your fingers at risk!
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[@StumpyNubs]

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[@Shauma_llama]

When microwaves came out it was explained they'd automatically turn off if you opened the door while it was running. My first thought was "what sort of moron would open the door on a running microwave?" Sixty-year-old me last year, having used microwaves for forty years, when I was distracted. Sure glad for that safety device. 😆

[@philipallard8026]

I was taught to use a chain saw by a crusty old-timer who opened his demonstration with “any machine that can eat you will eat you if given enough time”. It was true fifty years ago and still is today. Good video.

[@markbernier8434]

Mine is a little different, any tool that is worth using will try to kill you. Have to agree that goes in spades for chain saws. I often ask if anyone is crazy enough to take a 4 hp outboard off the dingy and run it holding it in their hands. Everyone is horrified. Then explain the chain saw again.

[@gregbenwell6173]

My father always told me "you have only ten of these," (holding up his fingers) "make sure you die with all ten of them!"

[@andrewlawrence990]

If you don’t have any fear of a chain saw you have no business using one.

[@jeffhreid]

True with tools, cars, firearms and animals . Never be careless with any of them

[@richarddixon1401]

Newbie woodworker here. I’ve watched a lot of videos with people using their table saws and almost nobody uses the blade guard, so when I set up my first table saw guess what I didn’t bother to install? That thing’s going on tomorrow, I can tell you. Thanks for the sobering video. I’m attached to my fingers and want to stay that way.

[@charlesreohr6236]

True fact all three of my shop teachers where missing fingers. That taught me more than any of their instruction.

[@howardcameron2551]

A lot of the guys making videos use guards... except when they make videos. They say it makes for better content when the viewer can see the cut being made. But it does leave a bit of a false impression.

[@justplanebob105]

You have a great video on blade guards and the best blade guard friendly sled on youtube. Great job!

[@bobdelamater9353]

Same exact story here Richard. Great video.

[@vileguile4]

It's a shame as several of the best channels are of this kind. Now when im less of a newbie i don't react to it much anymore. When i was new though i got pretty mad at them as if my father had told me how to use equipment safely i maybe would have done like the youtubers.

[@docrob2950]

Hey Stumpy. I am a retired family practice doc. Over the 38 years of my practice I saw many table saw injuries as well as circular saw, band saws, drills and many electric hand tools. If it can cut through wood human flesh is no match. The old "better be safe than sorry" certainly applies in the shop.

[@efrancis19]

I'm one of those guys with decades of experience, and I still have all my fingers. But it occurred to me as I was watching this video that I have done many of the things you mention. Running on autopilot, skipping the PPE because it's just one cut, not turning off the saw, etc, etc. And I almost never use the blade guard. After watching this video, I'm thinking there's a good chance I've just been lucky all these years. Time to change my habits and put on the guard. Thank you James.

[@myname4598]

Thank you for exactly demonstrating this video's purpose! Whether or not you use the blade guard is your choice, but we need to at least make sure everyone is properly educated about the possibilities and consequences so they can make an educated and well reasoned decision.

[@PianoUniverse]

It takes great intelligence to realize an error and lean and change.

[@steveyknoxville]

I second this comment. I'm the same, I'm getting the blame guard out first thing tomorrow.

[@jamespyacek2691]

Same.

[@davidphoto2368]

I took my blade guard off over fifteen years ago, because it was in the way for the type of cut I was making. I've never put it back on, and I still have all my fingers, but in truth I have had one or two close calls since removing it. Your presentation was excellent, and you have changed my mind and convinced me that it's time to reinstall the blade guard. This is the first time I've seen one of your videos, and I want to thank you for taking the time to warn us. I always preach "safety first," but thought regarding my table saw, I could be "careful enough." Thank you again for bringing me back to reality on this one. If I can find it in my shop, the blade guard will go back on before I make my next cut. (Otherwise I'll buy a new one!)

[@1jet55]

I am always reminded of safety at family get togethers when my 75 yr old cousin, who is a cabinet makers holds up all 8-1/2 fingers he has (thumbs included, lol)

[@grotekleum]

That's the best H&S video I have seen; not patronising, not heckling, not sensationalising - just the facts in an earnest call to common sense that left no room for complacency. Thanks for sharing.

[@111111877]

I used to run a cabinet making company. Apprentices and trainees never had serious injuries. Machinists with 20 plus years experience lost fingers and worse. Complacency.

[@leehaelters6182]

“I been doin this twenny years!”

[@UppsalaSal]

I’ve heard this safety advice many times. Hearing it again is worth it. Thanks for these 13 minutes of sound advice. And thanks for the reminder that driving a car is akin to operating a dangerous piece of heavy machinery.

[@stevestikihutable]

Jan Dabrowski I agree, I have not been in an car accident ever (40 years plus) and that was on purpose not by chance. So, I’ll put my guard back on...

[@charlesreohr6236]

It's words to live by!

[@jenniferwhitewolf3784]

Cars can and are used as deadly weapons on occasion by ill minded people. They can be just as deadly by accident.

[@rodp2310]

And for those giving a thumbs down - let’s hope their thumbs survive. That was a fantastic few minutes - youtube should run this as a public service ad. Thank you.

[@davidorr6627]

Some people are just beyond saving. How could you dislike a video with useful, common sense safety advice?

[@chrisstephens6673]

Macho/cave man he doesn't need safety, he's far to clever, until proven STUPID. Are people born stupid or do they take special classes in it?

[@chrisstephens6673]

@@MJ-nb1qn and they say education is failing, seems that class is very successful!

[@MarkBednarski]

Yep, can't fix stupid. Great video

[@chrisstephens6673]

@@MarkBednarski when people say that you can't fix stupid, my mind goes to the shotgun place but that is just me.🤔

[@kevinlavigne9931]

"Be sure to read, understand, and follow all the safety rules that come with your power tools. Knowing how to use your power tools properly will greatly reduce the risk of personal injury". I think we've all heard that sage advice before. This video is spot-on. Well done.

[@cuttysark7934]

You are not just a fine woodworker; you are an excellent KZbin-er. You are conscientious and responsible….to many who are watching your videos. I am in my mid 50’s and just started woodworking as a hobby. Few months ago, I bought my first real power tool - a table saw. Your safety videos on table saw are truly invaluable and insightful.

[@achucka]

Thanks for the reminder. My guard hasn't been on for years. I'm getting older so I immediately went looking in the pile for it and put it on. It will take some getting used to.

[@charlesreohr6236]

Mine has a special place right over the top of the blade.

[@2shoestoo]

65 now and I can see myself not as sharp as I used to be, don’t see as well and hearing declining. Time to put the guard on

[@charlesreohr6236]

@@2shoestoo I'm 66 almost 67 and still hear great hearing (because I use hearing protection) and I still have great vision (because I use safety glasses or googles and or face shield). I also have all ten of my fingers (because I use the safety guards, read and understand the manuals of all my power tools) because Norm showed me and told me in every video that safety is the number 1 rule.

[@michaelwarren2391]

Thank you for this video. You hit the nail on the head when you added the "YET" to the "I've been doing this for years and haven't hurt myself" comment.

[@ElectroDoom]

It never happens until it does 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@gregmislick1117]

I use 2 push sticks ... 1 of them has several "saw bites" in it - I figure if I can get the stick in the wrong place, I can get my hand in the wrong place...These bites usually happen when I'm doing repetitive work and .... usually ... it's that cut where you get, um, what was it again, oh yes, distracted..and BAM! the stick gets bit..... that's when you shut it down and walk away for a bit. Time to modify the PITA old guard so that I can in fact restore it to the saw easily... James you speak truth.

[@flumpyhumpy]

Yep. The only time I came perilously close to losing my thumb was doing the same cut on hundreds of pieces of stock over and over for hours. I got distracted and very nearly pulled the chop saw down with my thumb over the cut line.

[@raycarnis9540]

I use two push sticks as well.. Worked with a journeyman for years who had three missing fingers.

[@Nick_Graham_Woodwork]

Check out my push sticks on Instagram &Nickwit woodwork. I made one with a little hand. It lost a finger on its maiden voyage.

[@catfishcave379]

I just received my very first table saw - haven’t even checked the alignment yet. I admit I left the blade guard in the box. I thought a riving knife was enough because I never see anyone on KZbin using a blade guard . I think I will re-examine my decision now and learn how to use it. This video was a good reminder that while I may have been around shops of various sorts for 40 years, I’ve never used a tablesaw before and I should take advantage of modern safety features rather than boasting how in my day it was macho to not have 10 fingers. (My father had nine - lost it while working on a car engine) Once again, thank you for an excellent safety video.

[@EmmyDereest]

Woodworking youtubers piss me off for this exact reason. If you're unsafe in a video, you're teaching everybody who watches your channel to be unsafe.

[@keithmarlowe5569]

I don't want to say "it's more important than blade guard" but the anti-kickback prawl is something you want except for cuts where it can't be used.

[@brettwilson9181]

When i bought my new saw, one of the biggest considerations was the practical design of the guard.

[@TensileStrength]

I was once in an elevator whose cable broke. It was well maintained and showed no warning signs. I was saved by a back up brake. No one could have seen it coming. We can't stop bad stuff from happening but we can have a backup to keep it from turning into a tragedy. That's my attitude towards safety.

[@robertlevine2152]

One of our ships had an elevator car fall "up" to the top of the elevator shaft. The Chief Engineer had just gotten out of the car and the car started going down after being called. A few seconds later he heard the car rushing past and crashing into the top of the shaft. The general alarm was sounded to assemble a rescue party. Luckily the head count showed no one was in the car. It turned out there was a catastrophic failure in the gear box that moved the car up and down. The elevator car had emergency brakes to stop it from falling down the shaft. There were no similar brakes on the counterweight. When the gearbox failed the counterweight, with no emergency brakes, was released and fell. As the counterweight fell it pulled the elevator car up. In the failure modes and effects analysis done after the incident it was found that the gearbox was grossly undersized for the service. It was also found that the only times brakes were put on counterweights was if there was a possibility that someone might be below the shaft in an office or parking space, or if hazardous materials were stored below the shaft. You're asking "what the hell does this have to do with blade guards?" The answer comes in how we reacted to the near miss. We immediately secured all elevators on all of our ships. We reviewed all the designs of all the gearboxes and we replaced any gearbox that did not meet design standards. We installed counterweight brakes on all the elevators. We reviewed the designs of all the elevators and brought them up to current design standards. We changed our inspection and service policies and procedures. We also added annual inspections by third-party companies that specialized in elevator service and repair. Stumpy's advice is valid for blade guards, PPE, stopping when you get tired or distracted, and when you do things that you know are stupid. I know two people that have lost digits on table saws. I was involved in the aftermath of two deaths in shipboard accidents that were completely preventable had safe practices been followed. I spent a large portion of my career working to improve safety through better design and practices. In closing I'll leave you with this thought, I worked on an FMEA with an outside contractor who kept referring to designing for the "brain dead operator". In our shops we are the "brain dead operator ". Bob

[@TensileStrength]

@@robertlevine2152 Wow! I never would have expected falling "up"! Leave it to Murphy's Law to reveal the possibilities we never though of!

[@loganmedia1142]

@@TensileStrength Actually that is probably the most dangerous thing that can happen. All the safety measures are designed to prevent it falling, so they have hooks and brakes for that. You can usually cut the cable and it will stay right where it is or fall a very short distance. In the rare case of the mechanism failing in a manner that causes it to go up it can easily go out of control and will typically smash into the roof. If you search for lift crashes into roof you'll find some examples of this type of accident.

[@howardcrane5902]

I’ve been doing basic woodworking with my 5 1/2 year old grandson. Thanks for the reminder. We are careful to wear eye protection and hearing protection. Turning the machine, any machine, off between cuts is a great point. FYI, we always use a blade guard.

[@chemcody5119]

You are absolutely correct Mr. Nubs. I went 20 years with no guard because the stock guard was a piece of junk. I had a nasty kick back and decided it was time to revisit this. A call to SharkGuard allowed me to come up with a good guard that is easily removable and I now use it religiously. Thanks for standing your ground on this issue.

[@johncwhite]

Back in April I was routing a board and took to deep of a cut. One second the board was there the next it was not (kick back). The board was replaced by my thumb and I routed a 1/4 inch X 1/2 inch long X 1/4 inch deep groove in the pad of my thumb. I have been working around machinery for over 40 years and never been hurt before. but I was unfamiliar with router table operation and I had just built the table. Everyone need to become familiar with the equipment and the operation of it beforehand. Thanks for your Safety Talks, we all need to be reminded and be mindful when working around power tools.

[@totallynottrademarked5279]

This is why we made 1/2" Plexi shields at Tweeter back in the day and used double-sided tape to hold it to the piece. So you can see and route and never get pulled into the bit.

[@davidorr6627]

Ouch, my guts are churning just thinking about this.

[@johnmanning4577]

I clicked "Like" not because I liked what happened to you but because I liked the courage and the care for others you modeled by telling your story. I hope you recover fully.

[@cbat09]

I was in the trade some years ago, just finishing up the trim around new bathroom cabinets on a Friday afternoon. Dragged my left ring finger across the jointer blades next to the board I was surfacing, didn't even notice the damage until I saw the blood everywhere. My wedding ring had to be adjusted to fit over the mushroom-end on my finger once it grew back after they trimmed the bone and sewed up the rest of it. I'm surprised the nail grew back, since the machine took pretty much all of it. I think of that every time I turn on my (weekend warrior's) table saw, or sliding miter saw, or trim router, or circular saw.... Vigilance is an attitude that I hope, after all these years around the tools, to turn into an iron-clad habit.

[@answeris4217]

My collet broke on my router and I got a router bit g in my belly. Went through 3 layers of clothing and about 1/4 inch in and it felt like Mike Tyson punched me in the gut

[@johndonnelly336]

Just back from hospital, going back tomorrow for plastic surgery. Wish now I had mine on.

[@leehaelters6182]

@John Donnelly, ‘nuff said. Thanks for the testimony. Hoping your recovery is full. Best of luck!

[@edmanuel6885]

My accident was in March. Very luck just to lose a bit of feeling in my left pinky. It's kinda ugly on the end, but basically sound. Now I'm a hand tool woodworker. Not for everybody, but makes my wife a lot happerier.

[@johndonnelly336]

Hey guys not long back from Glasgow royal infirmary plastic surgery ward after a three hour operation to repair tendons and nerves together with a skint graft. I’m lucky that I did not lose a third of my thumb! If I had my guard on the table saw then I would not have had to experience this. Word of advice use the thing it’s there for a reason. I’ll be fine thanks to the skill of the surgeon but it could had easily went the other way. Stay safe

[@craigsmith3645]

Great video! I’ve watched it twice now. I really like that you advocate for safety so much! Only thing I don’t agree with is the ad for the Bluetooth hearing protection. It’s great to listen to music while in the shop, but I try to turn mine off when I am going to use a power tool. ANY distraction while doing that could cause you to suddenly react. I was listening to the radio once while ripping a board & idiot radio station put on a commercial with a loud honk to get your attention. I am normally pretty calm & unflappable, but I was trying to concentrate on the cut & was momentarily startled, jerked the board sideways a bit & it flew right past me and into the wall. This was on my hand me down “Toro” brand table saw from my dad that never had any guards. Nothing was going to stop that missile! Also, the 2 companies I worked for for the last 30 years had shops where equipment was custom made, & we reduced the injuries & error rates by not allowing radios or headphones when operating power tools. If you’re going to do it, just music only, maybe. Listening to talking, or trying to watch videos, or TV takes brain power away from the task at hand. Way more dangerous than most people would believe!

[@TheHerbsterooney]

Thank you Stunpy for such an honest educator to work safety, an advocate to good wood working practices and most of all, offering well balanced "parenting" advice to the young and old woodworker like myself who believes that learning is a journey and never stops! Thank you.

[@johnpaulflippin9097]

I think many of us experienced tablesaw users needed this video, I know I did. Thanks much. I just purchased another tablesaw with an important feature - the blade guard snaps on and off easily and quickly, no tools or knobs needed. Being human, I'm more likely to use safety features that are more convenient. Thanks again, great advice.

[@sawdustwoodchips]

Totally agree 100% - there are so many youtubers out there that are teaching new woodworkers the wonderful craft of woodworking. But I cringe when some youtubers not only don't use the guard and and splitter, but actually try and explain their reasoning for not using - just makes me cringe. I write for a UK woodworking magazine and they will not publish any images that do not have all safety features in place. I good friend of mine once said "there are two ways to learn - one through wisdom and the other through experience" I recommend all new woodworkers learn through wisdom. Thanks James for imparting your wisdom on a regular basis!!

[@ohgary]

Even better to learn from the experience of others. And less painful too.

[@cbat09]

@@ohgary "Good judgement comes from experience. Unfortunately, experience usually comes from bad judgement..."

[@itaintrocketscience]

Excellent! Use censorship and personal beliefs to guide others into your way of thinking. Perfect. Use the guard or not Wear a seatbelt or not Wear a helmet or not. See the theme here? Personal responsibility! It’s something we’ve lost over the years. Now it’s MY job to protect you?

[@richardsinger01]

@@itaintrocketscience yes, that’s being responsible. If some idiot is too pig headed to follow a good example that’s his problem, but at least you have shown him a good example.

[@davidshearer567]

Excellent advice Sir! This video is going in my "Woodworking Safety" playlist. I listen to these videos 2-3/year and before using a particular tool that I haven't used in a while. I watch the tool "set up" videos in these cases too. Great job!

[@meilyn22]

This video should have more views than it does. A lot of people will be saved by just watching this video. Too many youtubers forget to turn off the saw. I have seen it time and time again.

[@Shotsmoky]

You probably have not made me a better woodworker Dave, I'm just a weekend amateur, but you've definitely made me a safer woodworker, and for that you have my eternal thanks!

[@royrichwein6324]

Thanks for the video Stumpy. I am an 80 year old woodworker with over fifty years of woodworking enjoyment who never uses a blade guard or riving knife and who never had a serious accident. I consider myself very safety conscious, but I do admit to an occasional “brain fart”. Your video spoke to me and I am going out to the shop to see if I can find the blade guard and put it on. Who says “you can’t teach an old dog”?

[@leehaelters6182]

@Roy, it’s a good ole boy can learn a thing or two, even when he’s done different all his life. Wish I could learn some of the other things you know, must be a lot.

[@alastairduncan7618]

Thanks Stumpy I needed your reminder. I took off my blade guard a few weeks ago for a project and I have not got around to refitting it. It will be on tomorrow morning . A great educational video.

[@photohounds]

Stumpy, this is a powerful,common-sense, non-preachy presentation. It raised some issues that i hadn't thought of. I'd like to say "I always use my blade guard". That would be a lie, and I need to do better because I LIKE my old body intact, fingers, and all. I just LOVE the shelves full of JIGS up there :) Jigs is SEHR GUT!

[@andylevine4018]

After chopping up 3 fingers, and almost loosing the tip of one, my blade guard is a permanent fixture on my table saw. So far I've bound other ways of making those cuts that you can't do with the guard on. Like using my bandsaw for those narrow cuts where the rip fence can't get close to the wood, accurate and safe with a DIY rip fence. Thanks for posting this video. I spent 6 hours in the ER profusely bleeding before the Dr. could get to me for a 45 min sow it back together time. Delay was because there were others with similar injuries there too. They see this happen very day. Fingers most likely will never function normally again. I just thank the Lord that when they sowed the tip of my wring finger back on it came back to life.

[@paulpaul1948]

I've heard the same "complacency" argument made on owning a Saw Stop because of the built in electronic blade brake. Surprisingly, tlhey came from seasoned KZbinrs who really should have know better. Your comments are appreciated and right on the mark.

[@leehaelters6182]

@paulpaul1948, don’t that beat all? And they give you such a wicked argument about it, too. Drag in the “nanny state” and such. Beat their chest about self determination. I am looking forward to some of the European innovations that Saw Stop has prompted, though. Felder already has one available. Too bad that it is not in the amateur price range.

[@myname4598]

I will one day own a sawstop, but hell if i put all my faith in that brake mechanism! My luck i'll have a faulty one so i'll just go ahead and act like it isn't there and that spinning blade is still dangerous.

[@leehaelters6182]

@@myname4598, the only sensible approach. I have worked in a very busy shop that had quite a range of top quality equipment, from Martin sliding table saw to the top Saw Stop model. Nobody was complacent or careless about that ten-inch, 3,600 RPM spinning blade.

[@mmlips]

There are YT guys out there that literally make me scream at the screen because their table saw habits are just plain crazy.

[@Nick_Graham_Woodwork]

I watched one today. I’m on an app, makers playground. A member shared his first KZbin video. I immediately directed him on better safety practices since he was cutting small strips using a pice of random scrap as a push stick.

[@greygunner]

@@GifCoDigital Compare it to 100 people playing russian roulette with a thousand round chamber, it's lurking waiting for the odds to come up.

[@jarmstrong2843]

I am a retired safety engineer and have investigated industrial accidents all over the world during the past 45 years. Everything you say in this video is spot on the mark. Safety equipment on saws, jointers and other pieces of equipment is there for a purpose. You can explain this to the know-it-alls as much as you want,but you can’t make them understand. There is no cure for stupidity or a know-all attitude. An undesirable experience is often too late to make any difference once a finger or hand becomes a former part of the human body. Of all the thousands of accidents I have investigated, a big majority of those using power tools involved tools where guards were removed, improper tool use, using tools not intended for the job or using badly designed tools that do not consider safety (I.e., those circular blades used on angle grinders that look like a chainsaw used to carve wood). Extremely dangerous and the injuries very gruesome.

[@jeffmays350]

Appreciate the video. I've been using table saws on home building work sites for decades(mostly without blade guards). I still have all my fingers but I saw my father split an index finger and have witnessed some horrific kickbacks. My motto if using a table saw without a guard is"PAY ATTENTION AND FOCUS ONLY ON THE WORK AT HAND"! Repetitive work that leads to wandering mind REQUIRES a blade guard in place. Good work. Going to go put mine on right now!!!

[@teslabull74]

Bravo. I am so glad to hear your emphasis on safety. I completely agree with your recommendations that other youtubers do the same.

[@midwestmonster311]

Thanks for doing these types of videos. I have had a few "oh crap" moments on my table saw and after watching one of these videos, I spent a few hours to find my blade guard and splitter. It only takes a few seconds to Install and it does give me a bit more confidence and keeps me aware of every cut I make. I now only take the guard off when using my cross cut sled. Again, ty for this content.

[@eegarim]

I met an older man several years ago. He had nubs instead of fingers on one hand. One day I asked him how that happened, he replied “An error in judgment.” Excellent presentation!

[@marykayryan7891]

Good video. Thanks for saying that it isn't cool or macho to do stupid, dangerous stuff. People need to hear that.

[@dpbjlee83]

I rarely use my guard but you were very convincing and I WILL be using starting today. THANK YOU!! Sometimes we need a boot to the butt to open our eyes 👀

[@cursplat]

Thanks. We all needed this!

[@gopherwooddesign]

Thanks for this, Stumpy. I have an x-ray that reminds me to always keep the guard in place when using my bandsaw. An experience I don't care to remind myself at any workstation! The finger still hurts two years later.

[@Dr_Xyzt]

Modern guards are nice. My DeWalt saw has a nice blade guard with a vacuum port, split guard (fits the work piece better) and detachable anti-kickback teeth (so you don't scratch thin veneer but still covers the blade). -As a kid, I helped my Great Grandfather, and his saw didn't even have a riving knife. If Granddad was alive now, he would have loved my saw, specifically for the safety aspects.

[@lonniecrook1684]

James, As usual, you have demonstrated your responsibility to, and concern for, your audience. Your point is well taken and made me feel guilty for not using my blade guard when I know I should, for all the good reasons you stated. Keep setting the good example for all of us. I know I value your input, and others will too. Thank you!

[@bmandrakeeee8378]

I use mine every time I can. I started woodworking by using only hand tools, so now that I have a table saw is easy to think "reinstalling the blade guard is still so much easier than making this with a hand saw"

[@Nick_Graham_Woodwork]

I’m a safety oriented guy. I’ve been in manufacturing for 15 years. It’s best into me. However, I have two table saws, a bit excessive for a garage shop, but neither have a riving knife or blade guard. I’ve tried to find them online. But the old craftsman saw had minimal safety precautions. The newer hitachi just seems to have never made them. I had a kickback a few weeks ago. I’m lucky to still have my fingers. Ten stitches and two fingernails, but I got them. I stopped production when I could get back to work and made safety tools and evaluated my methods. I appreciate this video and the link to the video about the splitter. Anything helps.

[@dougtratch8260]

James, as an occasional wood worker and table saw user, the second hand contractor table saw I bought never had this equipment of blade guards, splitters or riving knifes installed, attached or in my opinion even as an option. Sometimes you don’t know what you don’t know! I’ve used it for years unaware of my saws potential to hurt me. I don’t think I want to use it anymore in this state, I’ve watched many of your videos for the past year and I keep telling myself “ I gotta do that alteration”. I think in my best interest, it’s time to sell this to someone else with Bravado and buy myself a new saw with all the safety features. As someone in my 60’s, now’s not the time to regret a stupid safety devise that I didn’t know existed when I was starting out in shop class back in the late 70’s. Thanks for bringing your excellent videos to my attention. Cheers Doug

[@steelsunpi]

I didn't install the blade guard or anti kickback device on my new jobsite tablesaw. Second week of use I had a kickback on a notch cut with a 45 degree blade cut. I now have a finger missing a knuckle and a second finger that was broken and slashed in several places and requires lots of occupational therapy to become useful again. This happened one month ago. Needless to say, now, the guard is back on, and I've ordered a microjig grrriper. Use the guard if you can.

[@steelsunpi]

Ps: I now refer to my mangled finger as "kerf" and the shortened finger as my "stumpy nub"

[@TheRPhelps24]

This is sobering to hear. I applaud you for sharing and for not giving up and avoiding it altogether. I made myself get out the next day and safely use my miter saw when I carelessly caught my finger on the spinning down blade (older blade guard had stuck open without my noticing) and had to get stitches.

[@leehaelters6182]

@steelsunpi, thanks for the testimony. I hope that you recover well, and that in time you will have full function, even with the missing bits. Best of luck!

[@regodawoodstudio]

Thank you! One of the best videos on this subject!

[@thomasbrunosr.283]

Great information!!!! I have been a woodworker for 50 years. Until recently, this past June, I did not us a blade guard on my table saw. Then in an instant I was not paying attention and removed 40% of my left thumb. I sold my old saw and purchased a Sawstop cabinet model WITH saw guard I use as much as possible. USE your safety equipment. Thanks Stumpy Nubs.

[@rjs2005]

I recently got a really cheap lesson in blade guard importance. I am building a desk for my granddaughter- I was making a cut and reached in to push a small piece through. I barely touched my blade with the tip of my middle finger. The cut isn't deep, but it bled profusely, created all manners of problems with access to my job (we use hand geometry readers for access and the bandage altered the geometry enough to deny entry), made it hard to type, etc. Most importantly, it scared the bejesus out of me. Great video, and (for me) very timely.

[@matthewpotter1933]

Thanks, as always, for your commitment to safety. You can find similar arguments about helmets on cycling boards/sites, and helmet advocates are compared to nazis regularly. I have never been able to figure out the disdain so many have for blade guards, and why so many KZbinrs avoid them. Every time I use my saw I can still hear my 9th grade shop teacher telling us the importance of keeping guards in place, and that was nearly 50 years ago. I, too, have all my digits.

[@leehaelters6182]

It takes a disciplined mind to overcome the rationalizing instincts that humans have by nature.

[@loganmedia1142]

To be fair bicycle helmets have a very poor, sometimes dangerous design. They're definitely not designed to protect your head in a real crash because they only survive up to 20kph. A shattered helmet is a failed helmet, not evidence of it working. They also increase the chances of the head catching on the ground. The elongated aerodynamic types are particularly stupid and dangerous. Especially the ones used for high speed boarding. Frankly they have nothing in common with a blade guard. That's more reasonably compared to a motorcycle helmet. But then how many people would wear a helmet while driving? Yet head injuries are prevalent in car accidents.

[@danielszemborski]

What happened to Jamie on the jointer got my attention! I'm more careful now then I've ever been!

[@arcuscerebellumus8797]

Pardon my morbid curiosity. What's his channel name?

[@panos3051]

@@arcuscerebellumus8797 Perkins Builder Brothers

[@arcuscerebellumus8797]

@@panos3051 watched some of it. Bummer. Especially the guitar part. Good cautionary tale, though. Thanks for the reference.

[@TheBeeFactory]

Ugghhh, yes. I watched those videos. Horrible. Really horrible. Definitely solidified my decision to stick with a mostly hand tool workshop. I have a table saw (with a guard!) and that's all the danger I need.

[@arcuscerebellumus8797]

@@TheBeeFactory you choice, man. For me, planning by hand is an inefficient drudge work that I'd rather avoid.

[@Yawles]

Great addition to the safety theme. I saw one other KZbin woodworker’s video in which Jay spent a good amount of time on safety. One video. Regular videos from all woodworker’s channels is a great idea.

[@bruinflight1]

Thank you for promoting safety and busting the myths! An invaluable contribution to the community and culture of woodworking! I'll be keeping my guard on and up!

[@ninjaonline]

I've used my blade guard ever since I got my saw. It has deflected many pine knots that could have done real damage.

[@davidwhite3338]

This is a wonderful public safety announcement. I'm 67 with all 10 but have more luck than I deserve without the guard. You are so right about having the guard in place everytime you can.

[@howardaappel194]

Agreed. And I turn 66 in two weeks all ten fingers (and a couple of fake knees, fused neck, screws in fingers, parts of my back missing, etc.).

[@joevenable2830]

Thank you so much for posting this. I've been a woodworker for over 50 years without an accident. Last fall I stupidly set out to hurt myself. I was tired and in a hurry. My blade guard was on the saw table. I had the saw blade set to it's max height from an earlier cut. I was cutting thin strips without a push stick. The middle finger on my right hand contacted the blade and it macerated my fingertip. It took 24 stitches to stop the bleeding. It was almost a year before the pain diminished to the point that I had full use of my hand. Every word in this post is absolutely critical to table safety.

[@markchadwick77]

Flicking away dust and small offcut pieces is a major reason I use my blade guard as much as possible. I have a reflex reaction to do this without a thought. Great video. I'm going to figure out some ways for easier install/removal of my blade guard.

[@jbuckley8]

My stomach flipped when he said "plastic baggies full of body parts."

[@falxonPSN]

Yup. Sometimes the scary imagery is what really kicks one in the butt to take action!

[@johnfithian-franks8276]

Hi James, I am a supporter of all safety things, but when I bought my jobsite saw (a dewalt), I was very surprised to find that it did not come with a blade guard it had a riving knife and a hole where you would be able to fit a guard but that was it. I think I used it once before I got the Perspex out and made a guard to keep me safe.

[@hugolosada]

Hi James, no accidents so far but I removed the guard a couple of years ago. I paused your video and went straight to the shop to fit it back. Thank you and keep it up!

[@0dtp1]

Woodworking is a hobby of mine. Playing guitar is my passion. So about 18 months ago I sold both of my table saws and bought a Kreg Adaptive Cutting System and upgraded my router table and miter saw. Of course, accidents can still happen and I always try to be hyper-aware of where my fingers are at all times, but I don't have nearly the fear I used to have when I play with wood. And so far, I have been getting along just fine without my table saws.

[@LogHouseFarm]

I have stubbed my toe many times, so I will be using my blade guard whenever possible.

[@charlesreohr6236]

I would also invest in a pair or steel toed work boots.

[@MaybeDave]

maybe 2 changes: 1. use blade guard, and 2. don't use foot as push stick.

[@alant84]

For maximum protection, fit a separate blade guard to all 10 toes

[@ewjorgy]

Excellent points. I don't know when being stupid became ok. Agree with you 100%. Stay safe and all the best from California :)

[@darinnetherland3466]

ewjorgy seems like more and more these days bragging about being unsafe or ignoring common sense and science is considered “smart”. It’s really sad.

[@daylen577]

Been binging all your videos the past couple of days, and 9:00 is the most not-super-chill I've seen you yet. Massive props for getting such an important message across without getting angry, I definitely wouldn't have been able to.

[@tclynn10]

Good content brother, I'm 65 and have been running lumber through my unisaw for years without the guard, just installed the Sharkguard and love it

[@robertbamford8266]

Old, 1970s Craftsman table saw. Dreadful fence replaced. Impossible blade guard permanently on the shelf. I’ll look into shop made guards.

[@Mastershaker1]

Can check shark guard as well!

[@robertbamford8266]

Mastershaker1 Thanks. I will.

[@kmor8829]

Along the lines of capturing more shots with the blade guard in place...perhaps all shots should start with a guard and only when you find something specific that you need to show...you shoot a retake without the guard...just for the shot.

[@shanefairchild5114]

A friend of mine, and fellow wood worker, tripped over his own feet and cut the end of his thumb off at the top knuckle while his saw was running... SO many issues came into play... and it bit him. Housekeeping, no guard, complacency. Stumpy, can’t poke any holes in this video. Agree 100%.

[@chrisa4342]

Thanks so much for the safety video. Complacency is easy to fall into and these videos serve as a great couple minute refresher and checklist to ensure I'm staying vigilant about shop safety practices.

[@rimmersbryggeri]

This video reminded me of the scene in "Walk the Line" where Johnny's brother was killed.

[@leehaelters6182]

@rimmersbryggeri, ouch yeah, that scene haunts me! We all knew what was coming.

[@superkopite]

I really cannot believe that 11 people (so far) have felt the need to thumbs down this video. Thank you, James, for reminding us what we all know but often ignore.

[@AndyJSThomson]

I’ve been using the same contractor saw for the last thirty years. It originally came with a fiendishly complex metal guard that was so sloppy the guard itself was liable to touch the blade and become part of the problem. Needless to say it got taken off as quick as I could dismantle it and never put back. I’m older and wiser now and have made my own overhead guard that is easy to lift or adjust as needed. However the one safety rule I have never broken is that ‘If the blade isn’t cutting it isn’t running’. That means I never reach over the blade to retrieve something before hitting the stop button. It amazes me how many KZbin woodworkers both retrieve pieces of wood and address the camera with the saw still running. It makes me cringe every time.

[@wendymontie5660]

Thanks for the mythbusting/shared intel! As a child, I was involved in a car accident w/a drunk driver. Neither of us (me and my mom) were wearing our seatbelts in our couple of years old Mustang. Now, this was before car seats were a 'thing' for the short-non-infants back then, but I also didn't know to wear the belt of my own accord at that time. Anyhoo...head-on from a drunk in a station wagon. The only thing that saved my 4-1/2 year old life? A fluffy teddy bear that was about as big as I was at the time. (I sustained a broken leg and some little lacerations) That experience taught me that seatbelts are good. And that goes to safety precautions/safety guards. While my husband and I have a little contractor saw at the moment, we are scrupulously careful when we use it, which isn't much right now. But our goal is to get a particular table saw that has some good safety engineered into it so that when that 'human being' condition gets a shove from "Murphy's Law", we're only needing a change of underclothing and a bandaid for the finger/thumb. We really aren't into finding out if our health insurance covers reattachment, or PT/OT. The major cost of such a saw is more than offset by downtime, copays, deductibles, and as we are not the proverbial 'spring chickens' we know 'things' are bound to happen in our approaching 'august' age.

[@MaybeDave]

THANK YOU for standing up to hubris! My guard is coming back, thanks to your reminder.

[@OldAZMountainBikerInMA]

I not only use my blade guard for nearly every cut, I invested in a Saw Stop too.

[@halle8378]

I applaud your load and clear message, please show us your cross cutting sleds with the blade guards..so we can learn.

[@StumpyNubs]

As I said in the video, not all cuts can be made with the guard on. Sled cuts are included in that assessment. We don't live in a perfect world, unfortunately.

[@digitallureworks7297]

All the SawStop CPSC hearings has me thinking about this lately. I make wooden fishing lures so I’m dealing with small stock and many pieces. I’ve been using my bandsaw lately to mitigate the risk. I reinstalled the riving knife and blade guard I had removed years ago and consider myself lucky to have never had an accident. I should have at least been using the riving knife. I don’t do many operations that wouldn’t work with a blade guard. Thanks for the video

[@gusgusnft8231]

Are you going to do a review on that Incra fence? I’m thinking about buying it as well.

[@TheRPhelps24]

Everything I've seen about it says essentially if you can afford and rationalize it, do it. Its precision and fit and finish are awesome.

[@RobertBarth1]

If you're thinking about it, order it now and you might have it by Christmas. I ordered mine first week of July and still hasn't shipped; they're _way_ behind (I knew this going in, it says it right on their website).

[@ohgary]

Robert Barth maybe Lysol or toilet paper figures into their manufacturing process?

[@aulii11]

@@ohgary HAHAHAHA - good one!

[@cliveclapham6451]

Agree with Numpy Stubs defo need a saw guard, to stop the blood getting in yer eyes when you chop yer fingers off. 🤔 Most car accidents there's a car involved 😅😉

[@myname4598]

Most car accidents involve an idiot not paying attention to safety. Still, i was amused by the idea

[@StumpyNubs]

@@myname4598 - No, most car accidents involve regular people who have driven safely for years before they simply made a mistake. Everyone makes mistakes, not just idiots. You can keep thinking you're too smart for an accident, but I know a lot of 9-fingered woodworkers who are smart.

[@carrollmoffett345]

I’ve been watching your videos and now have subscribed. I like the clear flowing content you present. Easy to understand. I am a woodworker for sometime, started in high school shop class. I am all for safety, but am still learning more all the time. Thank you.

[@nobuckle40]

I've expressed in the past how much I appreciate these reminders about safety and the use of guards. I am just as guilty as everyone else for not practicing safety as I ought. Do I have a guard on my table saw? No. Not at the moment. I bought a used saw that didn't come with one. Do I plan on getting one for it? Yes. As soon as I can. In the mean time, I could really use that link to the homemade splitter. That would be a big help. Thanks again James.

[@StumpyNubs]

-Video about making a table saw insert with a splitter: kzbin.info/www/bejne/navHd2CYgb2WbrM -Video about how kickbacks occur and how to prevent them: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bpebh4qtqcaomrc

[@pawpawstew]

Never stop preaching about safety. I made a cut on my table saw yesterday and after I finished, I looked and realized I had taken my riving knife off. It just never registered before I turned on the table saw.

[@wernerviehhauser94]

Safety equipment is not meant to make work easier or faster. Its meant to make work safer, at a cost of convenience. I've been driving for nearly 30 years and about 500000 km and I never needed a seatbelt. Still I buckle up every time. Physical Laws come without attourney, judge and jury. They only have executioners. This needs to be understood.

[@myname4598]

I'm writing down that quote!

[@NonFerricIrony]

Thanks for this video. I've gotten into the habit of leaving the blade guard off for no particular reason when I know better. Will put it on when I get home from work today!

[@tylerpolasek7191]

Your commitment to safety is part of the reason I choose to watch your videos and other videos on safety. (CSB/OSHA videos) While there can be a thing as too safe(using a bomb suit while driving) I think that no matter what life someone leads there will always be dangers, and a polite, reasonable, calm reminder of those is important. Thank you!

[@RambunctiousHamster]

Who the heck down voted this video? Seriously??

[@StumpyNubs]

Like I said, it's become a controversial issue. Not everyone in my own shop agrees with me :)

[@StumpyNubs]

Just because he doesn't SEE it my way doesn't mean he won't DO it my way :)

[@myname4598]

It got all the down votes from all those super cool tough guys out there that everyone loves because they're so daring and macho! Probably didn't even get through the intro, just saw the title and clicked over long enough to down vote, lol.

[@kevinmorley8119]

I appreciate the heck out of this video. I bought a sawstop because I love having all my fingers. I then built my own overhead blade guard for the saw to suit my workflow. A few minutes lost per project adjusting blade guards is a price I will pay a thousand times over before I lose a finger.

[@alanr745]

The blade guard is one of those things that I view as necessary, and high on my list to build for my old saw. The best part? It’s safety on two levels: dust collection and finger safety. Thanks for the info and advice James. Well said and good common sense reasoning. 👍

[@Birdlab]

Great video. I work in the occupational safety profession and have seen many examples of the damage that powered equipment inflicts on people and their loved ones. I am also fairly new to woodworking and plan on buying my first table saw this week. I appreciate you sharing your expertise.

[@normanerwin4242]

Thank You Stumpy! Every woodworker, pro or hack should view this video at least once a year.

[@PrinceAlberts]

Granted, I’ve only been watching your videos for a few weeks, but this video is the only time I’ve ever seen your blade guard installed. I’d like to see how you make some of your cuts with the guard in place. I want to learn the right way.

[@stephenwatson1873]

Thank you for such a great informative video, much needed with so many people now doing diy. Repetition is the mother of retention.

[@brettwilson9181]

Thankyou. As a woodwork teacher it bothers me every time i see youtube woodworkers. I hate the "guard is removed for clarity" comments. An exposed blade is always dangerous. What shocks me the most is that nearly every woodwork channel i have watched operate without a guard and over 30% of them without a splitter or riving knife. I hope a million woodworkers watch this clip.

[@MyGrowthRings]

Great message, James. I use primarily Shopsmith equipment in my shop and on my channel and use the guards whenever I can, with or without an audience. On the Mark V’s and Mark 7’s that have been produced by Shopsmith for the past 25 years or so, the lower and upper saw guards install in less than 15 seconds and work very well, so I see no need not to use them. The worst cat I ever received from the sawblade was while changing the blade with a short wrench. That was close enough for me and I don’t care to learn a deeper lesson! Thanks for the common sense reminder. Scott

[@ohgary]

OMG. I thought merely mentioning a Shopsmith would get you tossed right out of the craft! (My Mark V is buried underneath my late wife’s furniture. But one of these days...)

[@MyGrowthRings]

ohgary I think you’ll find the deep down, even the Shopsmith haters wish they had one!

[@MrDukhatt]

hi James, beginner woodworker i bought a cheap table saw to start me off and I must say that it did scare me to use it from the start, after realizing by myself after the first "turn on" how much damage it could do in just a fraction of a second! watched a couple of times already the safety videos you made a while back in your older shop about table saw safety, and always found them refreshing just to remind myself to use this machine with caution and think before hand. liked your videos about checking the table saw alignement etc.. really useful as always just like the rest of your channel. anyway i just wanted to say a HUGE thanks for all you do and the time you and your team put in making all the content here on KZbin. kind regards. Jérôme

[@RobertMichie]

Excellent video, touch on many valid points especially about complacency in the workshop.