Imagine this: you’re about to make a perfect cut on your table saw, but your hands feel a little too close to that spinning blade. It’s a common worry for woodworkers, from beginners to seasoned pros. Keeping your fingers safe while guiding your wood is super important, and that’s where a table saw push block comes in. But with so many different kinds out there, how do you know which one is the best for *you*?
Choosing the right push block can feel like a puzzle. You want something that grips well, keeps your wood steady, and doesn’t make your cuts wobbly. Plus, you don’t want to spend money on something that doesn’t really help. This guide is here to take the guesswork out of it. We’ll break down what makes a good push block and show you how to find one that makes your woodworking safer and your cuts cleaner.
So, get ready to learn how to pick the perfect partner for your table saw. We’ll explore the features that matter and help you understand what to look for, so you can get back to the joy of creating with confidence. Let’s dive in and find the right push block to keep your projects on track and your fingers safe!
Our Top 5 Table Saw Push Block Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Table Saw Push Block Detailed Reviews
1. MICROJIG GRR-RIPPER GR-100 3D Table Saw Pushblock
Rating: 8.9/10
The MICROJIG GRR-RIPPER GR-100 3D Table Saw Pushblock in bright yellow is a must-have tool for anyone who uses a table saw, router table, jointer, or band saw. It helps you keep your hands safe and away from the blade. This pushblock provides amazing grip and control, letting you make precise cuts on even small pieces of wood. It’s designed to give you three directions of force, so you can hold your wood steady and guide it perfectly through your cuts.
What We Like:
- Protects your hands from sharp blades and stops dangerous kickbacks.
- Its strong, grippy surface holds wood firmly for safe and accurate cuts.
- Lets you cut very thin pieces of wood, down to 1/4 inch, with great precision.
- You can adjust it easily to fit different sizes of wood and for comfortable handling.
- It makes working with small wood pieces safe on various woodworking machines.
- Designed and made in the USA, showing great innovation.
- Offers control in three directions for a secure hold on your material.
What Could Be Improved:
- The bright yellow color might not suit everyone’s workshop aesthetic.
- While effective, the initial cost might be a bit high for very casual woodworkers.
This pushblock is a fantastic safety and control upgrade for your woodworking. It makes complex cuts much easier and safer, giving you confidence with every project.
2. POWERTEC Push Block and Push Stick Set Fits Table Saws
Rating: 9.0/10
Keep your fingers safe and your wood projects smooth with the POWERTEC Push Block and Push Stick Set. This 5-piece set is designed for a variety of woodworking tools like table saws, router tables, band saws, and jointers. It helps you guide your wood safely and securely, reducing the risk of accidents and improving the quality of your cuts.
What We Like:
- Provides excellent hand safety when working with power tools.
- The dual ergonomic handles offer a comfortable and firm grip.
- Effectively reduces the chance of wood kicking back.
- Includes a variety of push blocks and sticks for different tasks and wood sizes.
- The long hold-down block offers great stability for larger pieces.
- The V-shaped stick is perfect for pushing wood completely through blades.
- The straight stick is useful for tight spaces and smaller wood pieces.
- They are built to last and provide maximum control.
- Designed with safety as the top priority for woodworkers.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the set is comprehensive, some users might find the short hold-down blocks a bit less versatile for very wide stock.
This POWERTEC set is a fantastic investment for any woodworker who values safety and precision. It provides the tools you need to tackle your projects with confidence.
3. Zebekk Push Block for Table Saws
Rating: 9.2/10
Safely guide your wood through table saws, router tables, band saws, and jointers with the Zebekk Push Block. This tool makes tricky cuts much easier and helps keep your fingers away from the blade. It’s designed for both beginners and experienced woodworkers who want to improve their safety and precision.
What We Like:
- Makes narrow rip cuts safer: It controls the wood with force in all directions. The bottom has a special material that grips well and resists slipping. This protects your hands and stops wood from kicking back.
- Easy to assemble: You don’t need to spend a lot of time putting it together. Just attach the handle and side pieces.
- Fully adjustable for precise cutting: You can easily change how wide your cuts are with a top sliding adjustment. This lets you make cuts as narrow as 1/4 inch on your table saw.
- Works with many tools: Use it on table saws, router tables, jointers, and band saws. It fits most common tool accessories.
- Easy to clean: If the push block gets dirty, you can wipe it clean with alcohol. This keeps its grip strong and the tool working its best.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instructions for assembly could be clearer for some users.
- While it fits most tools, there might be a few specific brands it doesn’t work with perfectly.
The Zebekk Push Block is a smart addition to any woodworking shop. It significantly boosts safety and accuracy for a variety of cuts.
4. Milescraft 3406 GrabberPRO – Push block for Table Saws
Rating: 9.2/10
The Milescraft 3406 GrabberPRO is a woodworking safety tool. It helps you make safer cuts on machines like table saws and jointers. This push block keeps your hands away from the blade. It also helps prevent dangerous “kickback.”
What We Like:
- It makes woodworking much safer. It keeps your workpiece firmly against the fence. This reduces the chance of kickback.
- You can change the legs to fit different jobs. It comes with four different leg sizes: 1″, 1/2″, 1/4″, and 1/8″.
- It lets you cut very thin strips of wood accurately. You can get strips as thin as 1/8 inch.
- The handle is designed to give you a good grip. This helps you control the wood as you cut.
- You can adjust the heel. This gives you even more control over your cuts.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the adjustable legs are great, switching them out can take a little time.
- For very small projects, the GrabberPRO might feel a bit large.
The Milescraft GrabberPRO is a valuable addition to any woodworker’s toolkit. It provides excellent safety and control for a variety of cutting tasks.
5. MICROJIG GRR-RIPPER GR2-GO Grr-Ripper2 Go Pushblock
Rating: 8.8/10
The MICROJIG GRR-RIPPER GR2-GO Grr-Ripper2 Go Pushblock is a game-changer for any woodworker. It’s designed to keep your hands safe and your cuts precise when using a table saw.
What We Like:
- It keeps your hands and fingers safe from cuts.
- The kickback prevention feature lowers the chance of accidents.
- Its super grip holds your wood steady and stops slips.
- The special legs let you make very thin and exact cuts, as small as 5/16 inch.
- You don’t have to touch the wood with your bare hands.
- It helps keep the wood tight against the fence to stop kickback.
- It gives you better protection overall.
What Could Be Improved:
- It might take a little practice to get used to.
- For some, the price might be a bit high.
This pushblock is a fantastic investment for anyone who values safety and accuracy in their woodworking projects. You’ll gain peace of mind and better results.
Choosing the Right Table Saw Push Block: A Guide for Safer Cuts
Why You Need a Table Saw Push Block
A table saw push block is a safety tool. It helps you push wood through the saw blade. This keeps your hands farther away from the spinning blade. It makes your cuts safer and more controlled.
Key Features to Look For
1. Grip and Stability
A good push block has a strong grip. It should not slip on the wood. Look for a block with a rubbery bottom or a textured surface. This helps it grab the wood firmly.
2. Handle Comfort
You will use the push block for a long time. The handle should feel good in your hand. Some push blocks have ergonomic handles. These are shaped to fit your hand naturally. This reduces hand fatigue.
3. Push Direction Options
Most push blocks push wood straight through the blade. Some also let you push the wood sideways. This is helpful for certain cuts. It gives you more control over the wood.
4. Versatility
Can the push block be used for different types of cuts? Some blocks are designed for specific tasks, like ripping long boards. Others work well for crosscuts too. A versatile push block is a good investment.
5. Durability
You want a push block that lasts. It should be made from strong materials. It shouldn’t break easily when dropped or used roughly.
Important Materials
1. High-Impact Plastic
Many good push blocks are made from strong plastic. This material is durable and lightweight. It can handle the pressure of pushing wood.
2. Rubber or Silicone Grips
The bottom of the push block often has rubber or silicone. This material provides excellent grip. It stops the block from sliding on the wood.
3. Wood
Some push blocks are made from solid wood. These can be very durable. They offer a natural feel. However, they might not have as much grip as rubbery surfaces.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Push Block Better?
- A wide base gives more contact with the wood. This means better stability.
- A non-slip base prevents accidents.
- A comfortable handle makes it easier to use for longer periods.
- A sturdy build means it will last longer.
What Makes a Push Block Worse?
- A slippery base can cause the wood to move unexpectedly.
- A small or uncomfortable handle can make your hand hurt.
- A flimsy construction might break after a few uses.
- A push block that doesn’t grip the wood well is less effective.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using Your Push Block
When you use your table saw, always keep the push block in your hand. Place it on top of the wood you are cutting. Push the wood through the blade with steady pressure. Keep your fingers away from the blade.
Common Uses
- Ripping: Cutting wood along the grain. Push blocks are essential for long rips.
- Crosscutting: Cutting wood across the grain. Push blocks help guide the wood.
- Making Narrow Cuts: When you need to cut very thin strips of wood, a push block provides the control you need.
- Cutting Plywood: Plywood can be unstable. A push block helps keep it flat on the table.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main purpose of a table saw push block?
A: Its main purpose is to keep your hands safe by pushing wood through the saw blade.
Q: Can I use any block of wood as a push block?
A: While you could, dedicated push blocks are designed for better grip and control, making them much safer and more effective.
Q: How do I know if a push block has good grip?
A: Look for a rubbery or textured bottom surface. This usually means it grips the wood well.
Q: Are all push blocks the same size?
A: No, they come in different sizes. Some are wider for better stability on larger pieces of wood.
Q: Is it important for the push block handle to be comfortable?
A: Yes, a comfortable handle reduces hand fatigue, especially when you are doing a lot of cutting.
Q: Can a push block help with different types of cuts?
A: Yes, many push blocks are versatile and can be used for ripping, crosscutting, and making narrow cuts.
Q: What materials are common for table saw push blocks?
A: High-impact plastic, rubber or silicone for grips, and sometimes solid wood are common materials.
Q: How can I tell if a push block is good quality?
A: Good quality push blocks are made from durable materials, have a non-slip base, and offer a comfortable grip.
Q: Should I use a push block even for small cuts?
A: It’s always recommended to use a push block, even for small cuts, to maintain good safety habits.
Q: Where should I store my push block?
A: Store it in a safe place near your table saw so it’s always handy when you need it.
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!