Pedal and Paddle Switches

I often have an awkward and anxious moment when I’ve finished a cut on my tablesaw or bandsaw and have to reach down to turn the machine off while still hanging onto the workpiece. While I’m groping for the little toggle switch beneath the table, I have to keep my eye on the racing blade, the workpiece, and my fingers. Aside from my safety, some cuts can bind and stop bandsaw and tablesaw blades, and I need to shut the motor off as quickly as I can before something gets damaged. To add an element of safety, I bought some switches that are easily and quickly operated.

Photographs by the author

The small toggle switch that came with the tablesaw is small and tucked under the table. It's not set up for quick operation.

I bought two different foot switches, both "power-maintained"—push once for on, push again for off. (There are "momentary" foot switches that cut the power when you lift your foot.)