Ever wonder how woodworkers keep their fingers safe when cutting on a table saw? It’s all thanks to a simple but crucial tool: the push stick. If you’ve ever felt a twinge of worry when your hands get close to the spinning blade, you’re not alone. Choosing the right push stick can feel like a puzzle, with so many shapes, materials, and features out there.
But don’t let the options overwhelm you! This guide is here to cut through the confusion. We’ll explore what makes a push stick great, so you can finally find one that fits your needs and your budget. By the end of this post, you’ll understand how to pick a push stick that boosts your confidence and keeps your woodworking projects running smoothly and safely.
Ready to make your table saw experience safer and more enjoyable? Let’s dive in and discover the perfect push stick for your workshop.
Our Top 5 Push Stick For Table Saw Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Push Stick For Table Saw Detailed Reviews
1. DEWALT OEM N506021 Table Saw Push Stick DWE7491RS DWE7491RS
Rating: 8.8/10
Keep your hands safe and your woodworking projects on track with the DEWALT OEM N506021 Table Saw Push Stick. This genuine DeWalt replacement part is designed specifically for your DWE7491RS table saw, ensuring a perfect fit and reliable performance. It’s a simple yet crucial tool for pushing your workpiece through the blade safely. This push stick helps prevent kickback and keeps your fingers away from the spinning blade.
What We Like:
- Genuine DEWALT part ensures quality and compatibility.
- Designed for the DWE7491RS model, providing a secure and accurate fit.
- Essential safety tool to protect your hands while operating a table saw.
- Helps maintain control of your workpiece for cleaner cuts.
- Comes new and bulk packed, meaning you get a brand new, functional part.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s a single push stick; some users might prefer a set with multiple options.
- Compatibility is limited to specific DEWALT models, so double-check your saw.
This DEWALT push stick is a must-have for any DWE7491RS owner. It’s a simple investment that significantly boosts your safety at the workbench.
2. POWERTEC Deluxe Push Stick Fits Table Saws
Rating: 9.5/10
Keep your fingers safe and your woodworking projects on track with the POWERTEC Deluxe Push Stick set. This two-pack of push sticks is designed to give you better control and protection when working with a variety of woodworking machines like table saws, router tables, band saws, and jointers. They are made to last and feel good in your hand, making your work safer and easier.
What We Like:
- Includes two different types of push sticks: a magnetic one for easy storage and an L-shaped one for various tasks.
- The ergonomic handles are shaped for comfort and a natural grip, reducing hand fatigue.
- They provide excellent control over your wood pieces, pushing them safely through blades and cutting heads.
- Built with durable materials, these push sticks are made to handle the demands of woodworking.
- Cleats and notches on the sticks help prevent slipping, adding an extra layer of safety.
What Could Be Improved:
- The magnetic feature on one stick is a nice touch, but its strength could be noted.
- While designed for durability, the exact material composition isn’t detailed, which might matter to some users.
This POWERTEC push stick set is a fantastic addition to any woodworker’s toolbox. It offers crucial safety features and improved control, making woodworking a more secure and enjoyable experience.
3. POWERTEC Push Block and Push Stick Set Fits Table Saws
Rating: 9.2/10
Keep your hands safe and your woodworking projects on track with the POWERTEC Push Block and Push Stick Set. This 5-piece set is designed to give you better control and reduce the risk of accidents when working with table saws, router tables, band saws, and jointers. It includes everything you need to guide wood safely through your machines.
What We Like:
- The set comes with a variety of push blocks and sticks. You get one long hold-down push block, one V-shaped stick, one straight push stick, and two short hold-down push blocks. This variety means you have the right tool for different jobs and wood sizes.
- The push blocks help you keep steady downward pressure on your wood. This stops it from bouncing or vibrating as it goes over the blades, giving you cleaner cuts.
- The push sticks, especially the V-shaped one, let you safely push your wood all the way through the blades. The straight stick is perfect for tight spaces or smaller pieces of wood.
- Both the blocks and sticks have comfortable, ergonomic handles. They feel natural in your hand, making them easy and safe to use.
- This set helps prevent kickback, a dangerous situation where wood is suddenly thrown back at you. It’s built with safety as the top priority.
- You can use these tools for many woodworking tasks like face jointing, ripping plywood, and routing. They work well with jointers, table saws, router tables, and shapers.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the handles are comfortable, some users might prefer a slightly more aggressive texture for even better grip, especially in dusty workshop conditions.
- The set includes a good variety, but it would be beneficial to have a slightly larger or differently shaped push block for very wide or thick material.
This POWERTEC set is a smart investment for any woodworker. It significantly boosts safety and control, making your woodworking projects more successful and enjoyable.
4. BOW Products PushPRO PP1 – Push Stick for Table Saws – EVA Tipped Push Block That Reduces Vibrations and Improves Material Grip – Woodworking Tools and Safety Accessories
Rating: 8.6/10
The BOW Products PushPRO PP1 is a game-changer for table saw safety and precision. This push stick features a special EVA tip that grips your wood firmly, preventing slips and keeping your hands far from the blade. It’s designed to make your woodworking safer and your cuts cleaner.
What We Like:
- The EVA tip hugs the wood, giving you better control as you push. This also helps cut down on shaky vibrations, leading to smoother cuts.
- If you accidentally hit the blade, the EVA tip is replaceable. This means your push stick is like new again, and the EVA won’t damage your saw blades.
- It won’t leave marks or dents on your wood, even soft types, which is great for projects where appearance matters.
- The EVA tip is safe; it won’t cause a dangerous reaction if it touches the blade. It also won’t set off safety systems like Saw Stop.
- You can change the handle to fit your hand perfectly for maximum comfort and control.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the EVA tip is great, it might wear down faster than some plastic alternatives over very long periods of heavy use, though it is replaceable.
- The initial cost might be slightly higher than basic plastic push sticks.
The PushPRO PP1 offers superior safety and control for any woodworker. It’s a smart investment for cleaner cuts and peace of mind.
5. MICROJIG GRR-RIPPER GR-100 3D Table Saw Pushblock
Rating: 9.2/10
The MICROJIG GRR-RIPPER GR-100 3D Table Saw Pushblock in bright yellow is a game-changer for woodworking safety and precision. It’s designed to keep your hands safe and prevent dangerous kickbacks when working with your table saw, router table, jointer, and band saw. This tool gives you amazing control, allowing you to make accurate cuts, even on very small pieces of wood.
What We Like:
- It shields your hands from the blade, keeping you safer.
- It stops wood from kicking back at you, which is a common danger.
- The high-friction grip holds wood tightly, giving you great control.
- You can make super precise cuts, even on wood as thin as 1/4 inch.
- It adjusts easily to fit different jobs and wood sizes.
- It makes working with small wood pieces much safer on various machines.
- The innovative design provides three-directional force for total control of the wood.
What Could Be Improved:
- The yellow color, while visible, might not match everyone’s workshop aesthetic.
- While effective, the initial learning curve for mastering all its functions might take a little practice.
This pushblock is a smart investment for any woodworker who values safety and accuracy. It helps you achieve professional results while protecting yourself.
Your Essential Guide to Push Sticks for Table Saws
Why You Need a Push Stick
Safety first when using a table saw! A push stick is a simple but vital tool. It keeps your hands far away from the spinning blade. This prevents serious accidents. It helps you push wood through the saw safely and accurately. Every woodworker, from beginner to pro, needs one.
Key Features to Look For
1. Grip and Ergonomics
A good push stick feels comfortable in your hand. It should have a non-slip grip. This helps you hold onto it securely. It prevents it from slipping while you work.
2. Blade Contact Design
Look for a push stick with a V-shaped or hooked end. This design helps grab the wood. It keeps it from moving sideways. It also provides downward pressure.
3. Stability and Support
Some push sticks have wider bases. These offer more stability. They help keep your workpiece flat on the table. This is important for clean cuts.
4. Storage and Accessibility
Think about where you’ll keep your push stick. Many have built-in magnets or slots. These let you attach them to your table saw. This way, they are always within reach.
Important Materials
Plastic
Many push sticks are made of plastic. Good quality plastic is strong. It is also lightweight. It won’t damage your wood. It’s a common and affordable choice.
Wood
Some woodworkers prefer wooden push sticks. They can be made from hardwoods like maple or oak. Wood offers a natural feel. It can also be very durable.
Rubber or Silicone Grips
Many push sticks have rubber or silicone parts. These are usually on the handle. They add extra grip. They make the push stick more comfortable to use.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Durability
A high-quality push stick will last a long time. It won’t break easily. It can handle regular use in the workshop.
Blade Guard Integration
Some push sticks are designed to work with your table saw’s blade guard. This is a great safety feature. It offers an extra layer of protection.
Cost vs. Quality
While you don’t need the most expensive push stick, very cheap ones might not be as durable. Find a good balance. A mid-range push stick often offers the best value.
User Experience and Use Cases
Beginner Friendly
Push sticks are incredibly easy to use. They are perfect for anyone new to woodworking. They help build good safety habits from the start.
Crosscutting and Ripping
You’ll use a push stick for all sorts of cuts. It helps push smaller pieces of wood through the blade when crosscutting. It also guides wider boards when ripping.
Preventing Kickback
Kickback is when the wood is suddenly thrown back at you. A push stick helps prevent this. It keeps the wood moving forward smoothly. It helps avoid dangerous situations.
10 Frequently Asked Questions about Push Sticks
Q: What is the main purpose of a push stick?
A: The main purpose of a push stick is to keep your hands away from the table saw blade. It helps you safely push wood through the cut.
Q: Can I use my hands instead of a push stick?
A: No, you should never use your hands instead of a push stick. It is very dangerous and can lead to serious injury.
Q: Are push sticks necessary for all table saw operations?
A: Yes, push sticks are necessary for almost all table saw operations, especially when cutting smaller pieces of wood.
Q: What is the best material for a push stick?
A: Durable plastic or hardwood are generally considered the best materials for push sticks.
Q: How do I clean a push stick?
A: You can usually clean a push stick with a damp cloth. For stubborn sawdust, a soft brush can be used.
Q: Can a push stick help prevent kickback?
A: Yes, a push stick helps prevent kickback by keeping the wood moving forward smoothly and preventing it from binding.
Q: Are there different types of push sticks?
A: Yes, there are different types. Some have V-shaped ends, some have hooks, and some have wider bases for extra stability.
Q: How do I store my push stick?
A: Many push sticks have magnets or clips for easy storage on the side of your table saw.
Q: Will a push stick scratch my wood?
A: High-quality push sticks made of plastic or smooth wood should not scratch your wood.
Q: Where is the safest place to hold a push stick?
A: Hold the push stick firmly on the end away from the blade. Keep your fingers behind the push stick itself.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!