Blade Guard
Affiliate link — we may earn a commissionThe blade guard is the spring-loaded cover that shields the exposed part of the blade when you're not cutting. On a circular saw, the lower guard retracts as you push into the material and snaps back when you pull away. On a miter saw, the guard is part of the blade housing. On a table saw, the guard sits over the blade with a splitter or riving knife behind it. Never remove or pin back a blade guard. It's the last line between the spinning blade and your hands.
Why It Matters
A stuck or removed blade guard turns a saw into an exposed spinning blade with no protection. If your guard sticks, clean the pivot or replace the spring. It takes 10 minutes. Pinning it back to save time costs fingers.