It will seem nuts to some of you, but Ive never used a tablesaw that has a guard. Every one has always been just "bare blade". I occasionally use a home made splitter. Im thinking its time to mend my ways before I get hurt and have to mend my hand. But I got curious and wanted to poll the community informally. Id appreciate hearing how you do things in your shops.

On a day to day basis, say "most of the time", which way do you work for ripping lumber:
1. Do you operate your tablesaw without a guard and without a splitter/riving knife?

2. Do you operate it using only a splitter/riving knife?

3. Do you operate it with BOTH a guard and splitter/riving knife?

4. Other.

Personally, Im about sold on ordering a Shark Guard because I like its flexibility. I contacted him last week and he makes one that fits my old delta.

If you have a minute, can you just reply with the number 1 - 4? And if you have any other thoughts or ideas Id appreciate hearing them too.

Thanks folks!
Fred