Is It Safe To Free Cut On Table Saw?

Table saws are one of the most versatile and essential tools in any woodworking shop. They can make precise and accurate cuts, but they can also pose a significant safety risk if not used properly. One of the most common questions that woodworkers ask is whether they can free cut on a table saw, and if it’s safe to do so. In this article, we will explore the answer to this question and provide you with some tips to ensure your safety when using a table saw.

What is Free Cutting?

Free cutting refers to the practice of making a cut on a table saw without using any guides or fences to guide the wood through the blade. Instead, the wood is pushed through the blade by hand, and the operator relies on their skill and experience to make the cut. Free cutting is often used when making angled or curved cuts that cannot be made using a fence or guide. It’s also used by experienced woodworkers who prefer the freedom and flexibility of free cutting.

The Dangers of Free Cutting on a Table Saw

While free cutting can be a useful technique for experienced woodworkers, it can also be very dangerous. The main risk of free cutting is that the operator’s hand can slip, causing the wood to contact the blade at an angle. This can cause the wood to kick back violently, potentially causing serious injury to the operator or anyone nearby.

Another risk of free cutting is that the operator may not be able to maintain a consistent feed rate, which can cause the blade to bind and kick back. This can also cause serious injury or damage to the saw.

How to Free Cut Safely on a Table Saw

While free cutting can be dangerous, there are some steps you can take to minimize the risks and ensure your safety. Here are some tips to help you free cut safely on a table saw:

1. Use a Push Stick

A push stick is a simple tool that can help you maintain a safe distance from the blade while free cutting. It’s essentially a long stick with a notch cut into one end to hold the wood. By pushing the wood through the blade with the push stick, you can keep your hands well away from the blade and reduce the risk of injury.

2. Use a Featherboard

A featherboard is a device that holds the wood against the fence or table and helps to maintain a consistent feed rate. It’s especially useful when making angled or curved cuts, where it can be difficult to maintain a straight feed rate. By using a featherboard, you can ensure that the wood moves smoothly through the blade and reduce the risk of kickback.

3. Wear Protective Gear

Whenever operating a table saw, it’s essential to wear protective gear such as safety glasses, hearing protection, and gloves. This is especially important when free cutting, where the risk of kickback is higher. Make sure you wear appropriate protective gear and follow all safety procedures when using a table saw.

4. Practice, Practice, Practice

Free cutting is a skill that takes time and practice to master. If you’re new to free cutting, start by practicing on scrap wood until you feel confident in your ability to make precise and accurate cuts. Remember to always be aware of the risks and take all necessary precautions to ensure your safety.

Conclusion

In conclusion, free cutting on a table saw can be a useful technique for experienced woodworkers, but it can also be very dangerous if not done properly. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can minimize the risks and ensure your safety while free cutting on a table saw. Always remember to wear protective gear, use a push stick and featherboard, and practice your technique before attempting any difficult cuts. With these precautions in place, you can enjoy the freedom and flexibility of free cutting while keeping yourself and others safe.

Further reading: How Does A Table Saw Not Cut Skin?

FAQs for Is It Safe To Free Cut On Table Saw?

1. What is free cutting on a table saw?

Free cutting on a table saw refers to the act of cutting a piece of wood without using a fence or any other attachment to guide the cut. It involves pushing the wood through the blade with your hands, which can be dangerous if not done properly.

2. Is it safe to free cut on a table saw?

No, it is not safe to free cut on a table saw. This technique can lead to kickback, where the wood is thrown back towards the operator at high speeds. This can cause serious injuries or even death.

3. What can I do to make free cutting on a table saw safer?

If you need to make a free cut on a table saw, there are a few things you can do to make it safer. First, make sure the blade is sharp and in good condition. Second, stand to the side of the blade, not directly behind it. Third, use a push stick to guide the wood through the blade, rather than your hands. Finally, consider using a featherboard to keep the wood against the table and prevent kickback.