How to Operate a Rip Saw

Table saws are used for fast, precise cuts, usually along the long axis of the wood.

A rip, or table, saw is used to cut everything from plywood to lumber to trim. Rough cuts for framing and fine cuts for trim work can all be done on this saw. The operation of this machine takes quite a bit of patience and practice, and a lot of wood. But once you learn the basics of operating your saw, you will have it cranked up and cutting like a pro in no time.

Things You'll Need

• Table saw
• Tape measure
• Plywood (4 feet x 8 feet x 3/4 inch)
• 2 inch x 4 inch x 8 feet treated board
• Scrap pieces of lumber (12 inches long or longer)
• Leather work gloves
• Safety glasses

Instructions

Cutting Plywood

1. Unlatch the guard on your table saw and raise the blade to its highest point. Place the blade of your tape measure against the guard and push or pull the guard so that the measurement to the outer edge of the blade is the same as the scrap you will trim from your plywood. Make sure the measurement is the same on both ends of the saw blade to get a straight cut.

2. Latch the guard into place and lower the blade to a height just slightly taller than the thickness of the plywood.

3. Have your helper hold the wide edge of the plywood as you hold the shorter end. Place the plywood onto the table against the guard. Engage the power switch on the saw and slowly push the plywood into the moving blade while your helper presses from the side to keep the plywood in place against the guard.

4. Move to the side of the wood and keep pressure against the guard while your helper moves to the receiving side and gently pulls the plywood through the blade to complete the cut. Pull the finished piece away from the blade, turn off the power, allow the blade to stop spinning and remove the scrap piece from between the blade and guard.

Cutting Lumber

1. Set the width of the cut by measuring between the inside edge of the blade and the face of the guard. Lock the guard into place and engage the power switch on the saw.

2. Place the 2 inch x 4 inch board onto the table firmly against the guard. Press the side of the board with a scrap piece of lumber (at least 12 inches long) so that your hands will not get too close to the spinning blade.

3. Push the board gently into the blade while maintaining pressure from the side. Use scrap lumber to push the end of the board through the blade so that your hands remain clear. Reach around the other side and grab the board to pull it clean of the blade. Disengage the saw and allow the blade to come to a complete stop.

Tips & Warnings

• Always wear safety glasses and work gloves when using a saw.

References

• Table Saw Basics