Knots and knotholes are hazards that contribute to cutout accidents because the gaffs are shaped to deal with them.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not a hazard
• D. Only during severe weather

Answer: (B)

Knots and knotholes create irregularities in the wood that make cutting tools prone to grabbing, binding, or chipping, which can lead to cutout accidents. The idea that these hazards exist because gaffs are shaped to deal with knots treats the tool’s design as the cause, when in fact such design would be intended to manage or mitigate the problem. The real risk comes from the wood itself—the abrupt change in density and grain at knots or holes—so proper technique, sharpness, and support are what prevent incidents.