Let’s Talk About Grizzly Industrial Thin Kerf Riving Knife
A riving knife is a crucial safety component for any table saw, and the Grizzly Industrial Thin Kerf Riving Knife is designed specifically for use with thin-kerf blades on compatible Grizzly Industrial table saws. This knife helps prevent kickback by keeping the saw kerf open, greatly reducing the risk of the wood pinching the blade and being violently thrown back at the user. It’s a simple but effective piece of equipment that enhances safety and precision during woodworking projects.
My old riving knife got bent during a mishap involving some particularly knotty pine. I needed a replacement that would fit my saw without modification and maintain proper alignment with my thin-kerf blades, ensuring safe and clean cuts.
Upon unboxing, the Grizzly Industrial Thin Kerf Riving Knife felt solid and well-made. The black finish seemed durable, and the steel construction gave me confidence in its ability to withstand the rigors of my shop.
I considered aftermarket options from other manufacturers, but the precise fit and compatibility guaranteed by sticking with a Grizzly Industrial part made it the logical choice. I needed something that worked immediately without needing to worry about fiddling around with adjustments.
My first impression was positive. The knife appeared to be exactly what I needed and I was eager to get back to work with the safety and peace of mind a riving knife provides.
Real-World Testing: Putting Grizzly Industrial Thin Kerf Riving Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Grizzly Industrial Thin Kerf Riving Knife on my Grizzly Industrial G0651 table saw. The installation process was straightforward, fitting perfectly into the existing mounting hardware without any need for adjustments or modifications.
I tested it while cutting various types of wood, including hardwoods like maple and oak, as well as softer woods like pine. The riving knife performed flawlessly, preventing the wood from pinching the blade and eliminating any potential for kickback.
It took no time at all to get used to the riving knife; after confirming its accurate blade alignment, its presence was practically unnoticeable during cuts. This is exactly what you want in a safety feature.
No issues arose during initial use; the knife stayed securely in place and maintained proper alignment throughout several hours of cutting. I was impressed with how smoothly it allowed the wood to pass through the blade without resistance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of frequent use, the Grizzly Industrial Thin Kerf Riving Knife continues to perform admirably. There are no signs of bending or warping, and the black finish is holding up well despite exposure to sawdust and occasional knocks.
The knife shows no signs of wear and tear, even after cutting through hardwoods and plywoods. It appears to be a robust and durable component that is designed to withstand the demands of regular use.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional wiping with a dry cloth to remove sawdust buildup. It doesn’t require any special cleaning solutions or lubrication.
Compared to the aftermarket riving knife I tried (and quickly returned) years ago, this Grizzly Industrial knife performs far better due to its perfect fit and reliable performance. I was left feeling safe and confident in my cuts.
Breaking Down the Features of Grizzly Industrial Thin Kerf Riving Knife
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Grizzly Industrial.
- Color: Black.
- Height: 0.07 inches.
- Blade body thickness: 0.070″ Max.
- Blade kerf: 0.090″ Min.
- Compatibility: Fits Grizzly Industrial models G0651, G0652, G0661, and G0713.
These specifications are critical because they ensure proper fit and function within compatible Grizzly Industrial table saws. The correct thickness is crucial to prevent binding and ensure the knife accurately follows the blade through the cut, while the blade body and kerf dimensions are vital for kickback prevention.
Performance & Functionality
The Grizzly Industrial Thin Kerf Riving Knife performs its job exceptionally well. It reliably prevents wood from pinching the blade, greatly reducing the risk of dangerous kickback.
Its main strength lies in its perfect fit and seamless integration with compatible Grizzly Industrial table saws. The only potential improvement might be a slightly more durable finish, although the current finish has proven to be adequate so far.
It meets and exceeds my expectations as a reliable and effective safety device. The peace of mind it provides is well worth the price.
Design & Ergonomics
The riving knife is constructed from steel, giving it a solid and durable feel. Its weight is negligible, and it doesn’t affect the balance or operation of the table saw.
The design is simple and functional, with no unnecessary frills or complexities. There is absolutely no learning curve: it’s ready to go right out of the box with a seamless fit.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its steel construction and simple design, the Grizzly Industrial Thin Kerf Riving Knife should last for many years with proper care. Avoiding accidental impacts and keeping it clean are the main factors influencing its lifespan.
Maintaining the knife is straightforward: simply wipe it down with a dry cloth to remove sawdust buildup. No special tools or skills are required for maintenance or repair.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Grizzly Industrial Thin Kerf Riving Knife is a standalone component, and doesn’t require additional accessories for basic operation. While there aren’t many customization options, it’s vital to use it with thin-kerf blades within the specified kerf range.
It is specifically designed for use with thin-kerf blades, and using thicker blades could compromise its effectiveness and safety. It’s important to note it is not inherently compatible with all aftermarket accessories, so verifying specific fitment with the given Grizzly Industrial models is essential.
Pros and Cons of Grizzly Industrial Thin Kerf Riving Knife
Pros
- Perfect fit for compatible Grizzly Industrial table saws, ensuring seamless integration.
- Reliable kickback prevention, significantly improving safety during woodworking operations.
- Durable steel construction, providing long-lasting performance.
- Simple installation, requiring no modifications or adjustments.
- Affordable price, offering excellent value for its safety benefits.
Cons
- Only compatible with specific Grizzly Industrial table saw models.
- Limited customization options beyond blade kerf compatibility.
Who Should Buy Grizzly Industrial Thin Kerf Riving Knife?
This riving knife is perfect for woodworkers who own compatible Grizzly Industrial table saws and use thin-kerf blades. Those who prioritize safety and want to minimize the risk of kickback during their projects will greatly benefit from this essential accessory.
Anyone using a table saw with standard kerf blades, or one that isn’t a compatible Grizzly Industrial model, should skip this product. Users not willing to frequently check and maintain proper alignment with their thin-kerf blade should also consider other alternatives or table saw safety practices.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality thin-kerf blade that falls within the specified kerf range (0.090″ Min). Regular blade maintenance and alignment are crucial for optimal performance and safety.
Conclusion on Grizzly Industrial Thin Kerf Riving Knife
The Grizzly Industrial Thin Kerf Riving Knife is an indispensable safety component for compatible Grizzly Industrial table saws. It delivers on its promise of preventing kickback and enhancing user safety during woodworking projects.
The price of $41.28 is certainly justified, considering the peace of mind and protection it provides. It’s a small investment that can prevent serious injuries and costly damage to your materials.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Grizzly Industrial Thin Kerf Riving Knife to any woodworker who owns a compatible Grizzly Industrial table saw and utilizes thin-kerf blades. It’s a simple, effective, and affordable way to enhance safety and improve your overall woodworking experience. Don’t risk using your table saw without a properly functioning riving knife—get yours today and cut with confidence!