Shopsmith Forums

I am curious about how many SS owners use the GRR-Ripper, which I have found has eliminated the need for the SS splitter and Guard system?

First, I don't have any financial interest in Micro Jig, Inc., that makes the GRR-Ripper. I just have to share with SS owners what a great tool this really is for doing better and safer work.

Watch the video if you don't know what I am talking about: http://www.microjig.com/

I bought a GR-200 a few years ago, and at Christmas time when I was at Woodcraft in Grand Rapids, MI I purchased another to use with longer boards. I've have never been this impressed with an add-on, after market tool. I also bought their splitter, made a new zero clearance insert and installed that. I also use the GR-200s with jointer, shaper, bandsaw, and router modes and especially with dado and molding cutting. I don't mess around with other hold downs any longer or awkward guards. I can even use the GRR-Ripper with my radial arm; what better than your fingers when making a 1 inches or smaller cross cut. With my additional GRR-Ripper purchase I was really impressed with the DVD that is included; mind expanding related to uses of this tool.

I've got a pair of the GR-200s and the bridge handles... can all be linked together if I need to. Very good stand-off from the blade.

Up until Micro-jig came out with the Grrrr-ripper, I would not make a ripping cut with the SS. I bought the first edition many years ago and since then have bought two more. I use this thing with absolute confidence. There seems to be endless uses for it even away from the table saw. After a few uses, set up is quick and easy and it provides absolute control with any cut. I would quit wood working before I did without this thing.

Interesting - I hadn't seen these before. I also like the look of their zero-play guide bar for sleds and jigs.

Just bought my first one from Woodcraft (sounds like I will get another one next time I have long boards).

I really like the way it allows me to safely use the riving knife without a blade guard and control the piece between the blade and the fence. Eliminates that sometimes snip as the cutoff exits the blade.

Forrest

Hi,

I'm a user.

Some of you might like to check out my initial post on this subject, which can be found here:

https://forum.shopsmith.com/viewtopic.php?t=1482

I have not been watching the cost of these items, back then they seem a little high for some people, including me but I got over it.

Ed

The Gripper appears to be a "push block". What makes it all that much better than the Shopsmith push blocks that I have been using for years (except that mine need to be refaced).

First time to see the Gripper. Interesting...
Dan

dusty wrote:The Gripper appears to be a "push block". What makes it all that much better than the Shopsmith push blocks that I have been using for years (except that mine need to be refaced).

The GRR-Ripper is in a totally different league than SS push blocks. Best to watch the Micro Jig video link I posted, that will show you the difference Dusty. I have my SS push blocks and other hold downs, but I seldom use them with the GRR-200s I now have.

I have one 200 and will buy a second. Mine does not have the 1/8" piece for narrow cuts, but will buy it. Also got to try out the attachment that moves the handle at more of an angle (similar to the SS pad but more pronounced). It seems to give a much better torque for pressing the work against a fence. Will buy that for each unit, too.

They are not cheap, but I think they provide enough extra peace of mind and safety that they are worth it.

Woodpeckers seems to have sales on them a few times each year. They put together dual units with the bridge for a decent discount.

Bought mine from Peachtree when they had a 20% off sale.

I've not bought the splitters, but they have a slick video on how to make the ZCI and then fit the splitter.

Many great videos on YouTube.

Be well,
Ben