Most featherboards or hold-ins utilize an angled board with numerous sawkerfs cut into one end. The flexibility of these featherboards is pretty limited, so they must invariably be reset after every cut. The alternative design shown in the drawing offers a much greater range of flexibility and requires fewer adjustments as ripping progresses. The bandsawn spring is dadoed into a split block that slides on, and locks to, the rip-fence rail for quick adjustment. The length of the spring and the strength of its action can be tailored to suit. Hickory or pecan are common springy woods that adapt well to this type of use.

Bert. G. Whitchurch, Hemet, Calif.

Fine Woodworking Magazine, December 1988 No. 73

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