Shopsmith Forums

Hi guys

I just wanted to share a life changing experience with all of you. *

Admittedly, I have been using my ss without the upper saw guard for 20 years. I have always been very careful when using the ts and have always respected the dangers that were involved. I was of the opinion that seeing the saw blade in the open always reminded me of the need to respect the machine ans steer clear of the danger zones.

So, here is what happened....

I was ripping some half inch thick red oak from 3.8" to 3.5". After the fourth rip cut, the cutoff piece caught the back of the blade and was rocketed into my right chest. Before you ask, I was standing in the proper position and did everything correctly, except for using the upper saw guard.

The moral of the story... I have been taught a very valuable lesson in safety...and all it cost me was a giant bruise on my chest. It could have been much worse. If I was using the guard this absolutely would not have happened.

I am sure there are those of you out there that use their ts without the upper saw guard, as I used to. Whether or not you will openly admit to it is another thing.

Yup, I admit it was my own stupidity and a gross error in judgment. I will take this as God's little way of teaching me a lesson.

Please work safer than you have been...no matter what. I know I will be!

Thanks

Geo

Wow, glad you are okay. I too for years have used my saw without the upper guard for the same reasons...I liked seeing the blade and knowing where to put/not put my fingers...but kickback is one of those things that probably isn't thought about much in the safety realm until it happens. Scary...I bought the upgraded upper and lower guards last month and haven't gotten around to installing them yet but will heed your warning and go do so now.

Geo - Glad you got away with that episode with only a bruise. Thanks for posting this warning. We can't say we weren't told - again!