Should the Offcut Side of the Blade Matter When Cutting?
Asked by CraftyNinja82
I've got a half sheet of plywood (48x48) and I need to cut it into strips that are 8 3/4 inches wide. I've heard conflicting advice about whether the material I'm cutting off should be placed between the blade and the fence. It seems like having to adjust the fence for every strip would be a hassle. Can anyone clarify if the side of the blade where the offcut is located really matters?
Answers
It's really all about control. Make sure your larger piece is pressed against the fence for accuracy. If you're making multiple cuts, always keep the same reference face against the fence for the best results. Oversizing initial cuts slightly can help avoid errors too—best to keep it safe while you work!
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Actually, it's a common misconception that the offcut should be on the opposite side of the fence from the blade. You want the piece you're keeping to be between the blade and the fence. Start by making your first cut at 27 inches to get it manageable, then set the fence to 8 3/4 inches for the rest of your cuts. It's a good way to maintain control when cutting!
SawMaster87: Yep, that's exactly how you should do it!
TrimGuru34: Absolutely! Makes cutting so much easier.
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Definitely consider safety when cutting. It's fine to have the offcut on the non-fence side as long as what you're cutting is big enough for a good grip with a push stick. But for smaller cuts, be cautious; keeping a small strip between the blade and the fence can be dangerous. That's why using a stop block at 8 3/4 inches on the waste side can help with consistency!
CustomizeMe60: Great tip about the stop block! Definitely easier and safer.
JoineryKing77: Exactly, that method can save you from potential kickback.
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CountOnMe45: Oversizing first cuts? That’s clever—definitely reduces mistakes.