Preventing Kickback

Below are tips to avoid the most common causes of kickback:

•Only cut workpieces with at least one smooth and straight edge. DO NOT cut warped, cupped or twisted wood.

•Never attempt freehand cuts. If the workpiece is not fed parallel with the blade, kickback will likely occur. Always use the rip fence or miter gauge to support the workpiece.

•Make sure the spreader or riving knife is aligned with the blade. A misaligned spreader or riving knife can cause the workpiece to catch or bind, increasing the chance of kick- back. If you think that your spreader or riving knife is not aligned with the blade, check it immediately!

•Take the time to check and adjust the rip fence parallel with the blade; otherwise, the chances of kickback are extreme.

•The spreader or riving knife maintains the kerf in the workpiece, reducing the chance of kickback. Always use the riving knife for all non-through operations, unless a dado blade is installed. Always use the spreader with the blade guard for all through cuts.

•Feed cuts through to completion. Anytime you stop feeding a workpiece in the middle of a cut, the chance of kickback is greatly increased.

•Keep the blade guard installed and in good working order. Only remove it when per- forming non-through cuts and immediately re-install the blade guard when finished. Remember, always use the riving knife for all non-through operations, unless a dado blade is installed.

•Make multiple, shallow passes when per- forming a non-through cut. Making a deep non-through cut will greatly increase the chance of kickback.

Statistics show that most common acci- dents among table saw users can be linked to kickback. Kickback is typically defined as the high-speed expulsion of stock from the table saw toward its opera- tor. In addition to the danger of the opera- tor or others in the area being struck by the flying stock, it is often the case that the operator’s hands are pulled into the blade during the kickback.

Protecting Yourself

From Kickback

Even if you know how to prevent kickback, it may still happen. Here are some tips to pro- tect yourself if kickback DOES occur:

•Stand to the side of the blade during every cut. If kickback does occur, the thrown workpiece usually travels directly in front of the blade.

•Wear safety glasses or a face shield. In the event of kickback, your eyes and face are the most vulnerable part of your body.

•Never, for any reason, place your hand behind the blade. Should kickback occur, your hand will be pulled into the blade.

•Use a push stick to keep your hands farther away from the moving blade. If kickback occurs, the push stick will most likely take the damage that your hand would have received.

•Use featherboards or anti-kickback devices to prevent or slow down kickback.

Model G0690/G0691 (Mfg. 11/10+)

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G0690, G0691 specifications

The Grizzly G0691 is a remarkable cabinet table saw designed for both hobbyists and professional woodworkers seeking precision and reliability. With its robust construction and advanced features, it stands out in the woodworking industry, making it a popular choice among serious craftspeople.

One of the key features of the G0691 is its powerful 3 HP motor, capable of delivering the performance needed for even the most demanding tasks. This motor can handle various materials, from softwoods to hardwoods, ensuring smooth, clean cuts every time. The saw's electronic variable speed control also allows users to adjust the blade speed according to the type of material being cut, providing flexibility and versatility in woodworking projects.

The G0691 boasts a heavy-duty cast iron table, which offers exceptional stability and supports larger workpieces. The table measures 27 inches by 40 inches, providing ample workspace for cutting. The potential for expansion is also present, as the saw is designed to accommodate extension wings for added surface area, making it easier to manage larger materials.

An impressive feature of the G0691 is its premium fence system. The T-square design ensures accurate measurements and smooth adjustments, enabling woodworkers to achieve precise cuts. This system includes a quick-release lever for easy adjustments, allowing for efficiency during the workflow.

Safety is another priority with the Grizzly G0691. The saw is equipped with a smart blade-guard system designed to offer maximum visibility while protecting the user from accidental contact with the blade. Additionally, the riving knife technology significantly reduces the likelihood of kickback, enhancing safety during operations.

The G0691's dust collection system is integrated to minimize debris, creating a cleaner workspace. The system is designed to connect easily to standard dust collection hoses, allowing for effective removal of sawdust and other waste materials.

In summary, the Grizzly G0691 combines power, precision, and safety into an exceptional cabinet table saw. Its durable construction, advanced fence system, effective dust collection, and user-friendly features make it an ideal option for both seasoned professionals and dedicated hobbyists. The investment in this tool is justified by its performance, ensuring it stands out as a valuable addition to any woodworking setup.