Model h7507 (Mfg. since 3/05)
-23-
5. Create countersunk mounting holes in the
zero-clearance fence so that the screws from
the fence boards can be used to secure it to
the support board in the same manner.
6. Secure the zero-clearance fence to the sup-
port board, check for proper clearance, con-
nect the router to power, then run a test piece
by the cutter to verify the results.
ALWAyS use hold-downs or featherboards
and push sticks when shaping small or nar-
row stock. These devices keep your hands
away from the spinning cutter and sufficient-
ly support the stock to allow a safe and effec-
tive cut, reducing the risk of personal injury.
to reduce this tendency, use a starting block
(see
figure 36). this will allow you to anchor and
slowly pivot the workpiece into the cutter as the
cut is started, making the operation more stable
and safe.
figure 36. Example of using a jig with a starting
block being used on a shaper.
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figure 35. illustration of free-hand cutting with a
starting block.
irregular or free-hand routing, as illustrated in
figures 35, takes a high degree of skill and dex-
terity and is done without the protection and aid
from the fence and guard. the most dangerous
part of free-hand routing is beginning the cut,
where the cutter first contacts the workpiece.
often the workpiece will tend to jerk or kickback,
presenting an injury hazard to the operator.
free-Hand Routing
free-hand or irregular
routing greatly increases
the chance that the opera-
tor may lose control of the
workpiece. Therefore, a
pivot point MUST be used
to control the workpiece
while free-hand routing.
Loss of control of the
workpiece could result in
serious personal injury.
With the fence assembly removed, you MuSt use
a router bit with a bearing to guide the workpiece
through the cut and limit the depth-of-cut. also,
use a jig or fixture to hold the workpiece so that
your hands can be kept at a safe distance from
the router bit while cutting.
in many situations, it is safer to use a router that
is not mounted to the table to perform free-hand
routing. Make sure to use a router bit with a bear-
ing.
