Table Saw Insert

This zero-clearance table saw insert makes it safe and easy to cut thin strips and reduce chipout.

Ripping is usually a pretty simple task. When the workpiece is fairly narrow, however, I often run into a challenge. The strip falls into the opening between the saw blade and the insert. I needed to find a way to keep this from happening. Otherwise, a strip can get wedged into the opening and kick back. Fortunately, the solution is simple — replace the metal insert that comes with the table saw with a zero-clearance insert that has an opening that’s the same width as the blade, like the one shown in the photo above. This prevents a strip from getting jammed in the opening. And since the insert supports the workpiece right up next to the saw blade, it also reduces chipout on the bottom. Although the idea of a zero-clearance insert has been around awhile, this one has a couple of advantages over others I’ve seen.

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What You Get:

  • 5 pages of step-by-step instructions
  • 22 full-color photos and illustrations

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