Ryobi BTS20R-1 - Manual (Page 19)

Page 19
OPERATION
 Using the wrong blade for the type of cut
 Not following correct operating procedures
 Misusing the saw
 Failing to use the anti-kickback pawls
 Cutting with a dull, gummed-up, or improperly set blade
AVOIDING KICKBACK
 Always use the correct blade depth setting. The top of the
blade teeth should clear the workpiece by 1/8 in. to 1/4 in.
 Inspect the work for knots or nails before beginning a cut.
Knock out any loose knots with a hammer. Never saw into
a loose knot or nail.
 Always use the rip fence when rip cutting and the miter gauge
when cross cutting. This helps prevent twisting the wood in
the cut.
 Always use clean, sharp, and properly-set blades. Never
make cuts with dull blades.
 To avoid pinching the blade, support the work properly before
beginning a cut.
 When making a cut, use steady, even pressure. Never force
cuts.
 Do not cut wet or warped lumber.
 Always hold your workpiece firmly with both hands or with
pushsticks. Keep your body in a balanced position to be
ready to resist kickback should it occur. Never stand directly
in line with the blade.
 Use the right type of blade for the cut being made.
 Use the blade guard assembly for all through cuts.
CUTTING AIDS
See Figure 16.
Pushsticks are devices used for safely pushing a workpiece
through the blade instead of using your hands. They can be
made in various sizes and shapes from scrap wood to use in
a specific project. The stick must be narrower than the work-
piece, with a 90° notch in one end and shaping for a grip on
the other end.
A pushblock has a handle fastened by recessed screws from
the underside. Use it on non-through cuts.
CAUTION:
Be sure the screw is recessed to avoid damaging the saw
or workpiece.
Fig. 16 PUSHBLOCKS
PUSHSTICKS
WARNING:
Do not allow familiarity with tools to make you careless.
Remember that a careless fraction of a second is sufficient
to inflict severe injury.
WARNING:
Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side
shields when operating tools. Failure to do so could result
in objects being thrown into your eyes resulting in possible
serious injury.
WARNING:
Do not use any attachments or accessories not recom-
mended by the manufacturer of this tool. The use of
attachments or accessories not recommended can result in
serious personal injury.
WARNING:
Although some of the illustrations in this manual are shown
with the blade guard removed for clarity, do not operate the
saw without the blade guard unless specifically instructed
to do so.
APPLICATIONS
You may use this tool for the purposes listed below:

Straight line cutting operations such as cross cutting,
ripping, mitering, beveling, and compound cutting
 Dado or molding cuts with optional accessories
 Cabinet making and woodworking
NOTE: This table saw is designed to cut wood and wood
composition products only.
BASIC OPERATION OF THE TABLE SAW
The 3-prong plug must be plugged into a matching outlet that
is properly installed and grounded according to all local codes
and ordinances. Improper connection of the equipment can
result in electric shock. Do not modify the plug if it will not fit the
outlet. Have the correct outlet installed by a qualified electrician.
Refer to the Electrical section in this manual.
CAUSES OF KICKBACK
Kickback can occur when the blade stalls or binds, kicking the
workpiece back toward you with great force and speed. If your
hands are near the saw blade, they may be jerked loose from
the workpiece and may contact the blade. Obviously, kickback
can cause serious injury, and it is well worth using precautions
to avoid the risks.
Kickback can be caused by any action that pinches the blade
in the wood, such as the following:

Making a cut with incorrect blade depth
 Sawing into knots or nails in the workpiece
 Twisting the wood while making a cut
 Failing to support work
 Forcing a cut
 Cutting warped or wet lumber