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. .... Gear

table saw accessories

Snap-in Splitters

These easy-to-use accessories add an important safety feature to your table saw.

Do you know where your table saw splitter is? If you're like a lot of woodworkers, then the answer to that question is either "No" or "On the shelf gathering dust."

The splitters that come with most table saws are clunky contraptions that combine a flimsy splitter with an awkward blade guard. And while most of us have good intentions of using them, once they're

MERLIN

Cutout handle for easy attachment and removal

Long splitter plate prevents workpiece from twisting -

taken off the saw, they are usually never put back on.

The good news is there are several high-quality, replacement splitters available. Besides being easy to install, they pop on and off your saw in just a few seconds.

What a Splitter Does. Before looking at specific splitters, it helps to know just what a splitter does. The main job of a . splitter is safety. When ripping, it prevents the kerf from closing up and binding on the blade, which can cause kickback.

Using a splitter can also improve the quality of cut. By keeping the workpiece from coming in contact with the back of

Extra set of pawls for thick

stock

Two-point connection (see inset photos)

► Release Hole. Drill a hole in the throat plate so you can release the splitter with a pencil.

the blade, you'll have less burning and fewer saw marks to remove.

Three Models. I looked at three after-market splitters that are all easy to use. Two of them, the Merlin and Biesemeyer look similar to the stock splitters—just without the blade guard. (Note: For the safest cuts, you should use a separate blade guard with these splitters.) The third one, the Micro Jig splitter, takes a different approach (box on the opposite page). To find out where to get each of these splitters, turn to page 51.

SPLITTER FEATURES

As I mentioned before, what really sets the Biesemeyer and Merlin apart is the ability to install and remove them in a few seconds. The key to doing that is a quick-release mechanism located inside the saw.

Push-Button Release. On the Merlin, the splitter is released by simply pushing a button. The makers of the Merlin recommend drilling a hole in the insert plate so that you can push the button with a pencil and then lift off the splitter. You can see how this works in the first inset photo shown at left.

Reattaching the Merlin is also a snap. You hook the back end in first. Then, lower the front into the slot in the insert plate. This two-point connection system keeps the long splitter rigid.

< Easy On. Clip the splitter in the rear mount and rock it forward until it "clicks" into place.

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ShopNotes No. 83