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Ripping
Workpiece Positioning
Always set up so that the wider part of
the workpiece is between the blade and
fence. This gives you greater clearance for
push sticks, and allows better stability for
feeding the workpiece.
Push Sticks and Push Blocks
Use push sticks and push blocks instead of
the hands to push the workpiece through to
complete cuts. They help keep hands away
from the blade. A push block is used with an
auxiliary fence. (see Cutting Aides).
Use a push block and auxiliary fence
when the blade is set 1/2 to 2" from the
fence.
Use a push stick when the blade is set 2" or
more from the fence.
Do not set the blade closer than 1/2 " to
the fence. The radial saw is the wrong
tool for such a narrow cut. A band saw
would be more appropriate for this type
of cut.
Ripping Safety
The hazards associated with ripping include:
outfeed zone hazard, kickback, and wrong
way feed. This section explains these haz-
ards and tells how to avoid them or reduce
the risk of their happening. Read this sec-
tion before making any type of rip cut.
Follow these steps every time you make a
rip cut.
Example: To rip 2" off a 10" wide board, set
blade in in-rip position 8" from rear fence.