Table saw blade guard/splitter question

[ABC Corp]

I'm a hobbyist with a new Grizzley G1022SM table saw. The splitter/blade guard attachment seems to be more trouble than it is worth. It seems impossible to get it aligned perfectly; unless it's perfectly aligned, the splitter pushes the wood enough to throw off the cut. I'm wondering if this device is worth the trouble? Seems to me that it might be more to protect idiots from hurting themselves than actually performing a useful function. The anti-kickback claws scratch the wood as they go by, too.

And while I'm at it, I have a good deal of vibration, although I've tinkered with the motor alignment a lot. Will investing in a better belt help reduce the vibration (I have the standard old belt type that I've seen on cars since I was a kid)? Thanks for any input.

[William Prisavage]

I have the Grizz Z series contractor saw and the same problems with the splitter.

I took mine off but on that question you are on your own.

[Tim Carver]

I worked for many years without a good splitter, and I didn't realize what I was missing until I got the Biese popup a couple of years ago. Basically, you will take so much stress out of your life if you get a good splitter that you won't believe it, it makes working around the saw fun instead of something you dread. Also, your cuts will improve, because a good splitter will help keep the stock against the fence. And yes, they are a pain to get aligned the first time, especially the Biese.

A good guard is great, too, but go for a good splitter first.

Tim Carver [e-mail]

[Guppas!]

Two weeks ago I made just one simple rip cut without the guard. The push stick touched the blade and came back into my hand (note the use of the word "into") at roughly the speed of light. The net was eight stiches to close a very messy wound. Fortunately my health insurance pays for almost everything, but the bill is currently up to $1,700 US. It's going to be a long time before I ever make a cut without the guard again! Be careful!