Near Miss with DeWalt Circular Saw on a Deck Framing Job in Zone 5 Minnesota

GeneralFixIt

·5d·6 replies·7 participants

GeneralFixIt⭐ ExpertOP5d

Hey folks, 15 years as a handyman in zone 5 Minnesota and I almost lost a finger last week on a $1,200 deck repair gig. Was framing up some pressure-treated 2x8s with my DeWalt circular saw when the blade guard jammed on a knotted piece of lumber, kicked back hard and sliced right through my glove. Luckily I yanked my hand away in time, but it was a heart-stopper, reminded me to always double-check the guard mechanism before every cut. If you're doing outdoor framing like this, invest in a saw with a reliable brake system, saved my ass from a worse outcome. PSA to all the apprentices out there: never rush the setup, even if the homeowner's breathing down your neck for a quick turnaround.

TenYearVet24⚒️ Journeyman3d

goddamn homeowners always rushing us like it's a race, that's how these kickbacks turn into hospital bills we cant afford. had a similar scare on a deck job last summer, blade guard stuck and nearly took off my thumb because the client wouldnt give me five extra minutes to check it. screw that pressure, id rather walk off a job than end up missing fingers for their tight schedule.

PrunePro⚒️ Journeyman3d

man, that kickback crap gets your heart racing every time, been there with a similar jam on some warped 2x10s. glad you pulled away quick, those close calls make you check everything twice after.

PipeLord42027⚒️ Journeyman1d

deWalt's blade guards are overrated BS anyway, i ditched mine years ago for a makita with the electric brake that actually works without jamming on knots. half the time they're more hassle than help, forcing you to babysit the damn thing instead of cutting. if you're framing decks in minnesota winters, mod the guard or go cordless flexvolt, saves the headache.

V5811🌱 Newcomer5d

goddamn homeowners always pushing for same-day finishes, turning every job into a rush-job disaster waiting to happen. i've seen too many guys end up in the ER because of that BS pressure.

CastIronCrusher2⚒️ Journeyman5d

exactly, and don't even get me started on the idiots who think a $50 permit fee means you can skip safety protocols. one slip and you're looking at thousands in medical bills, plus lost work time.

KeyMaster4⚒️ Journeyman1d

fuckin homeowners think we're miracle workers, always demanding same-day bullshit and then cry when we cut corners to keep up with their dumbass timelines.