OPERATION

KICKBACK

See Figures 10 - 13.

Kickback occurs when the blade stalls rapidly and the saw is driven back towards you. Blade stalling is caused by any action which pinches the blade in the wood.

WARNING:

To avoid kickback, release switch trigger immediately if blade binds or saw stalls. Kickback could cause you to lose control of the saw. Loss of control can lead to serious injury.

To guard against kickback, avoid dangerous practices such as the following.

Setting blade depth incorrectly

Sawing into knots or nails in workpiece

Twisting the blade while making a cut

Making a cut with a dull, gummed up, or improperly set blade

Supporting the workpiece incorrectly

Forcing a cut

Cutting warped or wet lumber

Operating the tool incorrectly or misusing the tool

To lessen the chance of kickback, follow these safety prac- tices.

Keep the blade at the correct depth setting. The depth setting should not exceed 1/4 in. below the material being cut.

Inspect the workpiece for knots or nails before cutting. Never saw into a knot or nail.

Make straight cuts. Always use a straight edge guide when rip cutting. This helps prevent twisting the blade.

Use clean, sharp, and properly set blades. Never make cuts with dull blades.

Support the workpiece properly before beginning a cut.

Use steady, even pressure when making a cut. Never force a cut.

Do not cut warped or wet lumber.

Hold the saw firmly with both hands and keep your body in a balanced position so as to resist the forces if kickback should occur.

WARNING:

When using the saw, always stay alert and exercise control. Do not remove the saw from the workpiece while the blade is moving.

KICKBACK - BLADE SET TOO DEEP

Fig. 10

INCORRECT SUPPORT

WRONG

Fig. 11

CORRECT BLADE DEPTH SETTING = BLADE EXPOSED 1/4 in. MAX OR LESS ON UNDERSIDE OF WORKPIECE

1/4 in. MAX

Fig. 12

 

 

CORRECT SUPPORT

 

Fig. 13

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Image 17
RIDGID R885 manual See Figures 10, Kickback Blade SET TOO Deep Incorrect Support Wrong, In. MAX, Correct Support