It looks more dangerous than it actually is, especially from this angle. But please keep in mind that I am pushing firmly away with my thumb at all times making it very controlled. My thumb acts as a stopper so that it can’t reach my hand and cut me after it passes through the wood grain. It definitely takes a lot of practise and getting used to but I can assure you I don’t hurt myself with this grip. The middle finger pushing down is doing firm pushes but not to the point where the knife would slip wildly, my thumb acting as the brace and stopper assures it. Hope that makes sense!