Register Now!

dunmovn · 12-10-2006, 11:41 AM

I understand the basic need for extension fences for my Miter Gauge but wonder about the several articles I've seen detailing how to build an auxiliary fence that includes stop blocks for accuracy and consistency in crosscutting. Why is this better than using the Rip Fence as a stop block? Isn't that one of the intended uses for the fence and isn't that why there are miter gauge slots on both sides of the blade? Also my table extension is on the right allowing me to make longer cuts without table hangover.

What am I missing?

**challagan** · 12-10-2006, 02:09 PM

I find it easier to set up stops on my miter guage than using the fence and I also find that for true mitered corners in my box work the stop blocks on the guage are needed. Just easier for me all around but as always, do what you are comfortable with the most.

Corey

Woodnut65 · 12-10-2006, 02:31 PM

Hi:Using the fence as a stop block is dangerous, as it could trap a cut off between the blade and the fence. To use the fence as a stop block a short piece of wood may be used attached to the fence, only ahead of the blade. That allows room for the cut off piece after the cut has been made. A miter gauge and an aux. fence with stops is the safe way to go, when cross cutting on a table saw. Good luck Woodnut65

**Mike** · 12-11-2006, 03:21 PM

Exactly right. Never use the rip fence as your stop block. As your wood passes the blade the stresses in the wood cause it to move, almost as if you were driving a wedge into a log to split it. If the rip fence is used as a stop block this causes a pinch and the wood WILL ride up with the rear of the saw blade at an uncontrollable rate. This spells disaster, ruined wood and an emergency room visit. This wood movement will vary from piece to piece, some will actually move back together causing a bind with similar results. This is why most saws have splitters to hold the wood apart incorporated into the blade guard. Aftermarket splitters are available for situations where a standard blade guard can not be used.

12-10-2006, 11:41 AM	#1
dunmovn Registered User New Member Join Date: Apr 2005 Posts: 4 View dunmovn's Gallery	Report This Post! Table Saw Miter Guage Fence I understand the basic need for extension fences for my Miter Gauge but wonder about the several articles I've seen detailing how to build an auxiliary fence that includes stop blocks for accuracy and consistency in crosscutting. Why is this better than using the Rip Fence as a stop block? Isn't that one of the intended uses for the fence and isn't that why there are miter gauge slots on both sides of the blade? Also my table extension is on the right allowing me to make longer cuts without table hangover. What am I missing?
	Top - Reply with Quote

12-10-2006, 02:09 PM	#2
challagan Retired Moderator Supreme Forum King Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: Iowa Posts: 4,002 View challagan's Gallery	Report This Post! I find it easier to set up stops on my miter guage than using the fence and I also find that for true mitered corners in my box work the stop blocks on the guage are needed. Just easier for me all around but as always, do what you are comfortable with the most. Corey
	Top - Reply with Quote

12-10-2006, 02:31 PM	#3
Woodnut65 Registered User Forum Geek Join Date: Oct 2004 Posts: 345 View Woodnut65's Gallery	Report This Post! Hi:Using the fence as a stop block is dangerous, as it could trap a cut off between the blade and the fence. To use the fence as a stop block a short piece of wood may be used attached to the fence, only ahead of the blade. That allows room for the cut off piece after the cut has been made. A miter gauge and an aux. fence with stops is the safe way to go, when cross cutting on a table saw. Good luck Woodnut65
	Top - Reply with Quote

12-11-2006, 03:21 PM	#4
Mike Senior Moderator Supreme Forum King Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: Detroit, Michigan USA Posts: 3,380 View Mike's Gallery	Report This Post! Exactly right. Never use the rip fence as your stop block. As your wood passes the blade the stresses in the wood cause it to move, almost as if you were driving a wedge into a log to split it. If the rip fence is used as a stop block this causes a pinch and the wood WILL ride up with the rear of the saw blade at an uncontrollable rate. This spells disaster, ruined wood and an emergency room visit. This wood movement will vary from piece to piece, some will actually move back together causing a bind with similar results. This is why most saws have splitters to hold the wood apart incorporated into the blade guard. Aftermarket splitters are available for situations where a standard blade guard can not be used. __________________ Mike Please edit your profile with a name and location so we can better assist you.
	Top - Reply with Quote

Thread Tools
Show Printable Version Email this Page
Display Modes
Linear Mode Switch to Hybrid Mode Switch to Threaded Mode

Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 members and 1 guests)

Similar Threads
Thread	Thread Starter	Forum	Replies	Last Post
Fence for Oak-Park Table	beemerbob	Table-mounted Routing	23	08-16-2008 05:29 PM
Table saw miter guage reccomendation?	Birch	Tools and Woodworking	12	02-02-2008 07:32 AM
Router table fence	simplenik	Table-mounted Routing	12	01-25-2008 02:04 PM
Questions about Table Saw fence	tmiller	Starting Off	4	04-02-2007 09:05 AM
Some Thoughts on Fence Control	Gilbear	Table-mounted Routing	5	12-20-2005 06:38 PM