All I Want For Christmas

Now I know what I want for Christmas!


I read in this month's issue of "Family Handyman" that there is now a table saw which has a blade that senses the touch of skin and will stop and retract the blade (within 5 milliseconds) upon accidental contact. Watch what happens when they (try) to run a hotdog through it. Barely a nick. You probably wouldn't even need a bandaid. Absolutely unbelievable the speed with which the blade disappears. So amazing that I had to watch it more than once. The blade and brake assembly have to be replaced after being set off ($70), but way cheaper than the cost of a trip to the ER. I've always wanted a table saw, but was afraid, having been present when my Dad mangled himself (not seriously) with his. Maybe I can get one now.


Check out the video here.


There is also a slow motion video you can click on at the site. I envision this becoming standard equipment in shop classes very soon. The cabinet model is quite expensive, but the SawStop company is supposed to be coming out with a reasonably priced contractor's model in '06.