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zero-clearance

Throat Inserts

Replacing your stock insert with a zero-clearance insert is an easy upgrade for cleaner cuts.

I've found that one of the quickest and easiest ways to get better results from your table saw is to install a zero-clearance throat insert when the job calls for it. Unlike the stock metal throat insert that comes with your saw, a zero-clearance insert gets "up close and personal" with the saw blade (photo above). And there are a couple of advantages to this tight fit between the blade and the saw insert. No gaps around the blade means that the edges of the ait are always "backed up" by the insert below. This leads to much cleaner,

chip-free cuts, especially when using a dado blade on "chippy" plywood.

A second benefit is added safety. With a zero-clearance insert in place there's no chance of a cutoff being trapped between the blade and insert opening and being kicked out. This protects the blade, the saw, and you from damage.

Right Insert, Right Saw. Buying an after-market table saw insert isn't a one-size-fits-all proposition. Most have ways to "tweak" the fit to tire opening in your saw, but you'll need to start with an insert

sized to fit your particular brand and model. The manufacturers have taken care of this by making a variety of inserts to fit different saws. All you need to do is get the right insert for your saw.

Even though all zero-clearance inserts have one basic task, you'll find a lot of differences between the available inserts. So I'll give you a little help by taking a look at a handful. You'll find sources for all the inserts shown here on page 51. Another option is making your own insert, as shown on page 44.

Price $13-$15

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Retaining pin

Lacks pre-cut slots

Lacks finger hole

Set screws used to adjust insert flush to saw table

UHMW PLASTIC_

If you're looking for a simple, bare-bones throat insert, the UHMW (Ultra High Molecular Weight) plastic insert shown at left might be your best bet. UHMW plastic is a tough, dense, and very stable material that's almost friction free, so it's great for table saw insert duty. It won't hurt your saw blade or melt from the heat

and once insalled, the thick insert will stay dead flat.

But when it comes to adjustment and installation features, you'll only get the basics. Four set screws threaded into tire plastic allow you to adjust its height. But the lack of a pre-cut starter kerf might make the installation more difficult.

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ShopNotes No. 85