Need safety tips for cutting rebar with a grinder - almost lost a finger!

Hey guys, total newbie here trying to cut some rebar for a garden project. I was using my 4.5" angle grinder with a cutoff wheel and it kicked back HARD - almost took my thumb off. Scared the crap out of me. What am I doing wrong? Should I be using a different attachment? Any safety tips before I try again?

First rule: STOP. Put the grinder down until you've got proper PPE. You need safety glasses (ANSI Z87+), leather gloves, long sleeves, and hearing protection at minimum. For rebar specifically, make sure you're using the RIGHT cutoff wheel - look for ones rated for metal cutting, not masonry. And NEVER force the cut - let the tool do the work. Pinching the wheel causes kickback.

SafetySteve's right about PPE. Also, secure that rebar in a vise or clamp - never hold it with your hand. Position yourself so if it kicks, the grinder moves AWAY from you, not toward your body. And check your wheel for cracks before each use. Seen too many guys in the shop get wheels exploding on them. Oh, and wear a face shield over your glasses - hot metal fragments are no joke.

What these guys said ^. Also, make sure you're using the guard! So many rookies take it off for 'better visibility' - that's how you lose digits. Keep both hands on the tool, stand balanced, and don't overreach. If the rebar's vibrating like crazy, your clamp isn't tight enough. And for god's sake, let the wheel stop completely before setting it down.

All solid advice. One more thing - consider a diamond blade instead of abrasive if you're doing more than a few cuts. They last longer and run cooler, though they're pricier. And if you're still nervous, maybe practice on some scrap first. Better to waste a bit of material than a finger! Stay safe out there.