When You Can Break the Rule<\/h2>\n
First, let\u2019s clarify: Stumpy Nubs isn\u2019t advocating for reckless behavior. He\u2019s suggesting that there are specific situations where using the rip fence and miter gauge together is not only safe but also beneficial. Here\u2019s the key: you can break the rule if you\u2019re not creating a loose offcut.<\/strong> Here are some practical examples:<\/p>\n One common technique involves burying a dado set in a sacrificial fence. This is perfect for cutting rabbits or short tenons on multiple workpieces with repeatable accuracy. Why is this safe? Because there\u2019s no gap between the fence and the blade where a piece could get trapped. Plus, the rip fence acts as a precise reference point, ensuring consistent cuts.<\/p>\n What if your tenon isn\u2019t a standard size? You might need to make multiple passes to cut it to the right width. Here\u2019s where the rip fence becomes your best friend. Set it as a stop, back your workpiece away, and use the miter gauge to guide the cut. As you nibble away the waste, the end of the workpiece will hit the fence, ensuring even shoulders and consistent tenons. Why is this safe? Because everything is turned into sawdust\u2014there\u2019s no loose offcut to kick back.<\/p>\n Using the rip fence and miter gauge together can also help you cut precise dados. The fence keeps the workpiece from shifting during the cut, preventing crooked dados. Again, this is safe because you\u2019re not creating a loose piece that could cause trouble.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re making double-cut tenons, you might produce a loose offcut when cutting the cheek. Here\u2019s how to stay safe: either make a crosscut first, leaving the waste piece attached, or attach a sacrificial fence face to your miter gauge. These methods prevent the offcut from kicking back.<\/p>\n But what if you need<\/em> to make a through-cut with a rip fence and miter gauge? Enter the reference block\u2014a simple but genius solution. Here\u2019s how it works:<\/p>\n This setup keeps you safe while allowing you to use the rip fence as a positive stop\u2014even during through-cuts.<\/p>\n\t\t\t Safety isn\u2019t just about the table saw. It\u2019s about protecting your hearing too. Stumpy Nubs recommends ISOtunes Bluetooth earbuds<\/a>. These ANC-certified earbuds let you enjoy your favorite music or podcasts while keeping your ears safe from shop noise. Plus, you\u2019ll be supporting a small family business\u2014win-win!<\/p>\n Breaking this safety rule might feel counterintuitive, but it\u2019s all about understanding the why<\/em> behind the rule. When used correctly, the rip fence and miter gauge can work together to create precise, repeatable cuts\u2014without compromising your safety. It\u2019s not about being reckless; it\u2019s about being smart and intentional.<\/p>\n Ready to take your woodworking skills to the next level? Become part of the Shining City on the Web<\/a>\u2014the iNthacity community. Share your projects, ask questions, and connect with fellow woodworkers. Like, share, and comment below to join the debate. And if you\u2019re looking for detailed woodworking plans, check out Ted\u2019s Woodworking Plans<\/a> for everything you need to bring your ideas to life.<\/p>\n What\u2019s your take on breaking safety rules in the shop? Have you ever used the rip fence and miter gauge together? How did it work out? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let\u2019s keep the conversation going!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Breaking table saw safety rules can improve woodworking when done correctly. Stumpy Nubs explains when to use the rip fence and miter gauge together safely, like cutting rabbets or dados without creating loose offcuts. Precision and safety can coexist with smart techniques.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":8194,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[1686],"tags":[1687,1688],"class_list":["post-8195","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-woodworking","tag-crafts","tag-woodworking"],"aioseo_notices":[],"aioseo_head":"\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t1. Cutting Rabbets or Tenons with a Sacrificial Fence<\/h3>\n
2. Nibbling Away Waste for Perfect Tenons<\/h3>\n
3. Cutting Dados with Precision<\/h3>\n
4. Making Double-Cut Tenons Safely<\/h3>\n
The Ultimate Safety Hack: The Reference Block<\/h2>\n
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![\"hqdefault](\"https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/TGWuQ14t1I4\/hqdefault.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWhen table saw safety goes TOO FAR!<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
Shop Safety Beyond the Saw<\/h2>\n
Why This Matters<\/h2>\n
Join the iNthacity Community<\/h2>\n
Thought-Provoking Questions<\/h2>\n