Ensuring safety in your woodworking shop is paramount, and a reliable push stick for table saw operations is one of the simplest yet most effective tools for preventing accidents. Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or just starting out, keeping your hands a safe distance from spinning blades on your table saw, router table, or jointer is non-negotiable. With so many options on the market, choosing the best push stick can be a bit overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide, delving into the top contenders to help you find the perfect safety companion for your shop.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Push Stick For Table Saw Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. POWERTEC Push Stick for Table Saw, Router Table & Jointer with Dual Ergonomic Handles
The POWERTEC Push Stick for Table Saw is an essential safety tool for any woodworking enthusiast. Designed with dual ergonomic handles, it offers both comfort and superior control while guiding workpieces through dangerous blades. This two-pack of L-shaped push sticks provides robust durability and reliable performance for a variety of tasks.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Includes two deluxe L-shaped push sticks for versatile use.
- ✓ Features dual ergonomic handles for comfortable and secure grip.
- ✓ Made from durable, high-quality plastic for long-lasting use.
- ✓ Designed to safely guide entire workpieces through cuts on various machines.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend the POWERTEC push stick for its practical design and emphasis on safety. The dual-handle setup allows for maximum control, which is critical when working with power tools like table saws, router tables, and jointers. Its sturdy construction ensures it can withstand daily workshop demands, making it a reliable addition to your safety gear.
Best For
This push stick is best for woodworkers who need a straightforward, durable, and comfortable safety device for pushing stock on table saws, router tables, and jointers.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value with a 2-pack for various uses.
- Ergonomic handles provide a comfortable and secure grip.
- Durable plastic construction stands up to workshop abuse.
- L-shape design offers good control over the workpiece.
Cons:
- May not offer as much downward pressure as a push block.
- Limited versatility compared to more advanced push blocks.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I purchased the Powertec Safety Push Tools (2-pack) from Amazon to keep my hands safe while cutting on my table saw, and honestly—I should’ve bought these a long time ago. They’re L-shaped, made of strong, durable plastic, and help me feed wood through the blade while keeping a comfortable (and safe) distance.”
Customer Review: “Installed on a 115 volt table saw. Worked as expected and the price was reasonable.”
2. Milescraft Push Block for Table Saws, Router Tables, Band Saws and Jointers
The Milescraft Push Block is a versatile and highly effective safety tool, designed to enhance control and reduce kickback on various woodworking machines. Its fully adjustable and interchangeable legs allow for customization, ensuring a secure grip on your workpiece. This push block is particularly adept at cutting thin, precise strips with exceptional accuracy.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Helps reduce kickback by maintaining contact on both sides of the blade.
- ✓ Features four adjustable and interchangeable legs (1″, 1/2″, 1/4″, 1/8″) for customization.
- ✓ Enables cutting clean, precise strips as small as 1/8″ thick.
- ✓ Ergonomic angled handle for comfortable and effective control.
- ✓ Non-slip rubber “teeth” ensure secure grip on lumber.
Why We Recommend It
We chose the Milescraft Push Block as our Editor’s Choice because it goes beyond a basic push stick, offering enhanced stability and control. The adjustable legs and effective grip make it incredibly versatile for different cuts and materials, significantly improving safety and precision. It’s a tool that genuinely boosts confidence around powerful machines.
Best For
This push block is ideal for woodworkers seeking superior control and safety for precise cuts, especially when dealing with thin stock, on table saws, router tables, band saws, and jointers.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional grip and stability, minimizing kickback risks.
- Highly adjustable with interchangeable legs for various cutting scenarios.
- Allows for very thin and accurate rip cuts.
- Comfortable angled handle improves user experience.
Cons:
- Higher price point than basic push sticks.
- Requires some initial adjustment to set up for specific cuts.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I love this thing! I have several different types of push pads, including two sizes of the Grr-ripper, but this is my go-to. The angled handle is super easy to use and really helps push the wood against the fence. The center piece is much easier to move side-to-side than on the Grr-ripper. The material is very grippy.”
Customer Review: “This push block is a game-changer for anyone working with table saws, router tables, band saws, or jointers. The adjustable grip holds lumber securely from the edge or face, giving excellent stability and peace of mind during those critical cuts. The rubber ‘teeth’ ensure wood doesn’t slip—even when dealing with tricky pieces.”
3. MICROJIG GRR-RIPPER 2GO Push Block for Routers, Jointers, Band and Table Saws, Woodworking Tool
The MICROJIG GRR-RIPPER 2GO Push Block offers an excellent balance of safety, control, and affordability, making it our top budget pick. Designed in the USA, this woodworking tool features a Green GRIP non-slip surface for superior gripping power, ensuring your hands stay safe and your cuts stay precise. Its unique design virtually eliminates kickback by controlling both sides of the cut.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Green GRIP non-slip surface provides strong gripping power and control.
- ✓ Precision leg and tunnel system controls both sides of the cut, preventing kickback.
- ✓ High-visibility design for easy tracking during operation.
- ✓ Ergonomic handle for comfortable and secure use.
- ✓ Versatile for use on table saws, router tables, jointers, and band saws.
Why We Recommend It
This GRR-RIPPER 2GO model is a fantastic entry point into advanced safety push blocks without breaking the bank. It offers the core benefits of the more expensive GRR-RIPPER systems, particularly its ability to control the workpiece on both sides of the blade. This significantly enhances safety and precision for a wide range of cuts, making it an invaluable tool.
Best For
This push block is best for budget-conscious woodworkers who want to significantly upgrade their workshop safety and precision on table saws and other cutting tools without investing in a full-sized GRR-RIPPER.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for money, providing advanced safety features.
- Superior grip and control, drastically reducing kickback risks.
- Controls both sides of the cut for cleaner, safer results.
- Highly versatile across multiple woodworking machines.
Cons:
- Smaller footprint than the original GRR-RIPPER, which might be less stable for very large pieces.
- Setup might require a moment of adjustment for optimal performance.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Probably one of the best safety items I have purchased. Works well, quality construction.”
Customer Review: “I’m not new to woodworking, but I still get anxious around table saws and routers. Any safety tool that’ll help ease my mind is useful. I like that this MICROJIG design safely controls the board along the fence and over the blade, virtually eliminating my need for push sticks. The minimum rip width is fantastic too.”
4. MICROJIG GRR-RIPPER GR
The original MICROJIG GRR-RIPPER GR is a groundbreaking safety and precision tool for the table saw, router table, and other woodworking machines. It’s renowned for its powerful, high-friction grip that provides extreme hold on your workpiece, preventing kickback and allowing for precise cuts. This system offers unparalleled control, even when ripping down to very narrow strips.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Protects hands and virtually eliminates kickback during cuts.
- ✓ Features powerful high-friction, durable grip for extreme workpiece hold.
- ✓ Enables precision cutting and control down to 1/4″ ripping.
- ✓ Patented design allows for control of both sides of the cut.
- ✓ Highly versatile for use with table saws, router tables, band saws, and jointers.
Why We Recommend It
The GRR-RIPPER GR is a staple in many professional and serious hobbyist workshops for good reason. Its innovative design provides an unmatched level of safety and precision, allowing you to confidently make cuts that would be risky with traditional push sticks. It fundamentally changes how you interact with your table saw, giving you superior control over your material.
Best For
This push block is ideal for serious woodworkers looking for the highest level of safety and precision for all types of cuts, including narrow rips and small pieces, across multiple woodworking machines.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unrivaled safety features, almost eliminating kickback.
- Exceptional precision for extremely narrow cuts.
- Maintains control over both the keeper and off-cut pieces.
- Durable construction built to last a lifetime.
Cons:
- Significantly higher price point compared to basic push sticks.
- Can be somewhat bulky for very small or intricate workpieces.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The first thing I noticed when I opened the box was the quality and craftsmanship of this push block. It was easy to assemble and the versatility and safety of this push block was very impressive! The handle gives it a good grip and functions as it should. The rubber grippers on the bottom holds the wood very well.”
Customer Review: “Love this microjig for my table saw. Easy to use and very safe to use. Great price. Very functional.”
5. BOW Products EVA Tipped Push Stick for Table Saws, Offering Enhanced Grip and Reduced Vibration
The BOW Products EVA Tipped Push Stick brings a unique material innovation to the world of table saw safety. Its high-density EVA tip is designed to conform to the wood, providing superior grip and significantly dampening vibration for cleaner cuts. Unlike traditional plastic push sticks, the EVA tip is non-marring and replaceable, extending the life of the tool and protecting your workpieces.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ High-density EVA tip provides enhanced grip and dampens vibration for cleaner cuts.
- ✓ EVA tip conforms slightly to the wood surface for better contact.
- ✓ Replaceable and reversible EVA tips mean the push stick can be refreshed if accidentally nicked.
- ✓ Non-marring EVA tips protect even the softest woods from dents or compression.
- ✓ Offers greater feed control compared to standard plastic push sticks.
Why We Recommend It
This push stick stands out for its intelligent use of an EVA tip. The enhanced grip and vibration reduction translate to a safer, more controlled, and ultimately cleaner cutting experience. The fact that the tips are replaceable is a huge bonus, adding to the longevity and value of the tool. It’s a thoughtful design that addresses common frustrations with traditional push sticks.
Best For
This push stick is ideal for woodworkers who prioritize a non-marring tool with exceptional grip and reduced vibration, especially when working with delicate or high-value lumber, on table saws and other similar machines.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- EVA tip offers superior grip and reduces cutting vibration.
- Non-marring surface protects delicate workpieces.
- Replaceable and reversible tips extend product lifespan.
- Provides excellent control and confidence during cuts.
Cons:
- The EVA tips may wear down over time with heavy use.
- May not offer the same multi-directional control as push blocks like the GRR-RIPPER.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I was skeptical about an EVA-tipped push stick, but the grip on this thing is incredible! It feels so much safer guiding smaller pieces through my table saw, and I love that it doesn’t leave any marks on the wood. The vibration damping is also a nice bonus, making the cut feel smoother.”
Customer Review: “After accidentally nicking my old push stick a few times, the idea of a replaceable tip really appealed to me. This BOW push stick works exactly as advertised, providing excellent control and peace of mind. The non-marring aspect is a huge plus for my finish carpentry projects. Definitely a smart design.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Push Stick For Table Saw
Choosing the best push stick for your table saw is a crucial decision for both your safety and the quality of your work. It’s not just about pushing wood; it’s about maintaining control, preventing kickback, and keeping your hands far away from dangerous blades. Let’s break down the essential factors to consider when making your choice.
Essential Factors We Consider
- Safety Features: This is, without a doubt, the most important aspect. Look for designs that actively help prevent kickback, provide a firm grip on the workpiece, and keep your hands a safe distance from the blade. Features like non-slip surfaces, ergonomic handles, and the ability to control both sides of the cut are paramount.
- Type of Push Stick: There are generally two main types:
- Traditional Push Sticks: These are usually L-shaped or straight, ideal for general pushing. They are simple, affordable, and effective for many tasks.
- Push Blocks (or Grippers): More advanced, these often have a broader contact area, better grip, and sometimes adjustable features. They provide more stability and control, especially for thinner stock or when requiring downward pressure.
- Grip and Control: A good push stick must have a secure, non-slip grip on the workpiece. Materials like rubberized pads or specialized high-friction surfaces are excellent. The handle design should also be comfortable and allow for firm, steady pressure.
- Versatility: Consider where else you might use your push stick. Many are suitable for router tables, band saws, and jointers, making a versatile option a great investment for your entire workshop.
- Durability: Woodworking tools endure a lot of stress. Opt for a push stick made from robust materials that can withstand accidental blade contact (though this should always be avoided!) and general workshop wear and tear.
- Visibility: Brightly colored push sticks are easier to spot in a busy workshop, reducing the chance of misplacement or accidental contact with a blade if it’s lying too close.
Budget Planning
Push sticks range from very affordable, basic models to more advanced, feature-rich push blocks. While it might be tempting to save a few dollars, remember that this is a safety device. Investing in a high-quality push stick or push block can save you from serious injury and improve the precision of your cuts. Consider your typical projects: if you often work with small pieces or make intricate cuts, a more sophisticated push block like the MICROJIG GRR-RIPPER might be worth the extra cost. For general ripping, a sturdy L-shaped push stick will serve you well.
Final Thoughts
A push stick for table saw use isn’t just an accessory; it’s a fundamental piece of safety equipment. Taking the time to choose the right one for your needs will make your woodworking safer, more enjoyable, and ultimately, produce better results. Prioritize safety and control, and you’ll find a push stick that becomes an invaluable part of your workshop routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why do I need a push stick for my table saw?
A: A push stick is essential for safely guiding workpieces through the blade of a table saw, router table, or jointer while keeping your hands a safe distance away. It prevents your fingers from getting too close to the spinning blade, significantly reducing the risk of serious injury and kickback.
Q: What’s the difference between a push stick and a push block?
A: A push stick typically has a narrow profile, often L-shaped, and is used to push the workpiece forward. A push block usually has a broader, flatter surface with a handle on top, designed to apply both forward and downward pressure, offering more stability and control, especially for wider or thinner stock. Some advanced push blocks, like the GRR-RIPPER, also control both sides of the cut.
Q: Can I use one push stick for all my woodworking machines?
A: Many push sticks and push blocks are designed to be versatile and can be used on various machines such as table saws, router tables, band saws, and jointers. However, specialized tasks might benefit from different types or sizes of push tools. Always ensure the tool you’re using is appropriate and safe for the specific machine and cut.
Q: How do I properly use a push stick?
A: Always ensure your push stick maintains firm contact with the workpiece. Apply steady, forward pressure to guide the material smoothly through the blade. For a table saw, keep the workpiece tight against the fence and use the push stick to push past the blade. When finishing a cut, continue pushing the off-cut completely clear of the blade. Always keep your hands directly behind the push stick, never over or beside the blade.
Q: When should I replace my push stick?
A: You should consider replacing your push stick if it becomes cracked, worn, or if the non-slip material loses its effectiveness. If your push stick accidentally makes contact with the blade and is significantly cut or damaged, it’s crucial to replace it immediately to maintain optimal safety and control. Some push sticks, like the BOW Products model, offer replaceable tips for extended life.
Investing in the best push stick for table saw operations is a small but critical step towards a safer and more efficient woodworking shop. We’ve explored some fantastic options, from the durable POWERTEC L-shaped sticks to the innovative MICROJIG GRR-RIPPER systems and the unique BOW Products EVA-tipped stick. Each offers distinct advantages designed to keep your hands safe and your cuts precise.
No matter your project or machine, choosing a push stick that offers superior grip, control, and ergonomic comfort will make a significant difference. Don’t compromise on safety; pick the push stick that best fits your needs and confidently get back to creating. Your hands will thank you! We encourage you to click through our affiliate links to explore these top-rated push sticks on Amazon and make an informed decision for your workshop today.
I’m Darrell Julian, the founder, lead writer, and hands-on welding enthusiast behind ArcWeldingPro.com. With more than 15 years of real-world welding experience, I created this platform to share what I’ve learned in the field, in the shop, and in the heat of the arc.
