How To Make A Riving Knife For A Table Saw: A Guide For Beginners

Woodworkers need to have a good pair of riving knives. They enable them to create precise shapes from wood without worrying about their blades being damaged.

A riving knife, a type jig, allows you to cut straight lines in wood. Attach it to the blade on a table saw, and position it against the board’s edge. The blade will cut through the material leaving behind a smooth, clean curve.

There are two types riving knives. The fixed-blade model attaches to the table saw directly. Another is a removable blade model that attaches directly to the table saw. Each model has its pros and cons. Keep watching to learn more about the riving knife.

These are the steps you need to take in order to make a riving blade for a tablesaw.

1. Take A Piece Of Scrap Metal And Cut It:

First, cut a piece flat metal. To cut the metal, you can use a hacksaw or jigsaw. It is important that the blade is parallel to the surface.

2. Drill Holes In The Steel:

Next, drill two holes into the metal. These holes are used to attach your riving knife and table saw.

3. Attach The Riving Blade To The Table Saw

Attach the riving blade to the table saw. This can be done by bolting or screwing the riving blade into place. Before you begin cutting, make sure the blade is parallel to the surface.

Align The Knife On The Table Saw

These are the steps to align the table saw and the knife.

  • You will need to take the knife out of the holder in order to align it properly.
  • To prevent friction between the knife’s handle and the holder, you must use a lubricant.
  • To ensure that the knife is properly aligned, place some shims between it and the trunnion army.
  • Next, use your fingers to place the knife on its blade.
  • This method allows you to make a precise cut on the keeper end of your knife.
  • When I started cutting wood, I was unaware of how much easier it was for me to use a riving blade than a table saw.
  • Now, when I make cuts I use the riving knives instead of a tablesaw. Because there is no vibration or noise, riving knives are much more precise.
  • The edges are more smooth than those I get from a table saw.
  • A riving knife can be used to cut wood. You can use a riving knife to cut the wood into boards.
  • This is particularly important for hardwoods like oak. To get the best out of their work, woodworkers use a riving blade.

A Video Guide On How To Make A Rivet Knife For A Table Saw.

Make a riving blade for a table saw

Safety Tips For Making A Riving Knife

These safety tips will help you make a safe experience while riving a knife.

  1. Sharpen a knife
  2. Sharpening your knife is a must. You could cut yourself if you don’t sharpen your knife. Sharpening helps keep your blades longer. Sharpening makes it easier to work with materials.
  3. Do not touch the blade with your hands
  4. It is forbidden to touch the blade with your fingers. This could lead to serious injuries. Instead, you should use a riving blade guard.

Before you begin to make your riving knives, ensure that you read and follow the instructions.

Conclusion

It takes patience to make a riving blade. Once you have mastered the art of making one, you’ll be able to forget why you bought a tablesaw in the first place. A riving knife can be used to cut wood. It is easy to use.

FAQs:

How Thin Should The Riving Knife Be?

It all depends on the material you are cutting. If you plan to use plywood, the thickness of your riving knife should be approximately 1/20 cm. You might consider making your riving knives thicker if you want a thinner knife.

What Kind Of Blade Do I Need To Make My Riving Knife?

It all depends on the type of blade you choose. Some prefer a straight blade. Some prefer a straight blade.

What Is A Riving Knife Guard? How Can I Use One?

A riving knife protector is a device that protects the user’s hands from the blade. It is useful when making riving knife.

What Is The Difference Between A Riving Knife & A Splitter?

Splitter knives and riving knives are two different things. Both types of knife can be used to cut wood but they have different sizes, shapes, and purposes.

How To Remove The Riving Knife From The Table Saw?

There are many reasons you might need to remove the riving knives from your table saw. These are just a few examples. The riving knives can be used to trim any excess wood, or as a guide for straight cuts.