I also don't use a guard, but primarily (I like to think) because my 2nd-hand saw didn't come with one. I use push sticks, infeed/outfeed supports, featherboards whenever possible. I also make sure that I'm not leaning on the saw or the wood while I'm cutting. If I can't lift my hands off the work and keep my balance, then I'm doing something wrong.

Ross

> I have had my Sears 10" table saw for 15 years and have never had the
> guard on. Am I crazy. I found that it got in the way more than it
> protected and that trying to lift it up mid cut was twice as dangerous as
> never having it in the first place. I do use push sticks, safety glasses
> and feather boards religously and never stand behind a board should it
> kick back.

> As long as I keep my fingers well away from the blade, what is the real
> danger that subjecting myself in not having the guard on. I have heard
> stories of boards binding up and being shot back at high speed but have
> never experienced it myself.

> These stories have put the fear of god in me but it seem mostly related to
> fingers in the blade. What else should I be aware of?

> Jack