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
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