The Colbert Report/Comedy Central

First, a warning. This clip from the Colbert Report contains edgy, adult-oriented, late-night humor and satire. It’s intended for adults. So, if you’re easily offended, have no sense of humor, don’t get satire, or become enraged at the possibility of federal regulation, you probably shouldn’t watch it. Really, some of the footage is adult content. So, I’ve warned you.



Who would have guessed that the SawStop controversy would grow big enough to make onto Comedy Central’s Colbert Report. As you probably know, the show features Stephen Colbert doing his best to imitate and satirize a conservative pundit (his inspiration was Bill O’Reilly, I think). I’m sure Colbert is trying to make us think critically about current events, but he is also trying to make us laugh. This video hits on both accounts, but mostly it’s just funny. I find it interesting to see how mainstream media envisions the controversy. I’d say Colbert simplifies the issue, which isn’t surprising. The way he portrays it is far easier to understand and lampoon than it would be if he dug into all of the nitty gritty and ancillory issues (like whether or not it will work on a jobsite saw). At any rate, I say enjoy it for what it is: comedy.

Of course, you can let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, you might ask why I’m posting this to FineWoodworking.com. It’s news about our craft and our industry. It reveals something about how one segment of the popluation views a big controversy in woodworking. So, it’s worth sharing with you.

More on Tablesaw Safety

Fight Kickback with a Riving Knife – See kickback in action and learn how a riving knife can help prevent it.

Blade Brake Inventor Aims to Compete with SawStop – When this blade guard senses flesh, the blade stops in about 1/8 of a second.

Hear Woodworkes Talk About Accident Stories – Hear first-hand accident stories and learn practical safety tips for your own shop.

Sign up for eletters today and get the latest techniques and how-to from Fine Woodworking, plus special offers. Sign Up