BillS

I think many kickback events don't result in injury or result in injury not requiring medical attention. Therefore their occurence rate is probably higher than reported compared to blade contact events. I agree with the comments about FWW and others showing saw use without guards and splitters but also the other "tips" that are unsafe. i.e. cutting zero-clearance blade inserts by raising the saw through the insert which can't be done with a guard or a splitter in place and then results in an insert where a guard or splitter can't be used. I have a Rockwell contractor saw that is 40 years old (no guard or splitter ever)and think most saws are way over 5 years old with no provision for splitters or good usable guards.

One more thought; Studies have shown that the safer you feel, the more risky behavior you will attempt. Many of the "Safety features" make you feel safe without actually making the device safer (SawStop being an exception). Some tools are just plane dangerous. I use a chainsaw a lot. You don't casually use a chainsaw. You shouldn't casually use any saw (like many magazines, books and TV shows suggest).