Push stick recommendations?

[Keith Woythaler]

Hi everyone.  My current project requires I rip cut a few pieces and so I plan on using a table saw, but need to get a push stick (safety first, right?)....and recommendations on what you use and like?

I saw a video online demonstrating this one:

http://www.amazon.com/Tool-Designs-10230-Power-Hands/dp/B001C4O92I/...

[Ken Darga]

They can be purchased, or

simple push-sticks and push-blocks can be shop-made.

Here are a few options.

[Ken Darga]

The grriper push-block system, is raved by many.

Pricey, but effective.

It emphasizes safety and that your hands are protected from a spinning saw blade.

For long pieces, they recommend two such tools.

NOTE: insure your working height is not too high, or else your forearm is exposed, when you reach over the spinning blade.

[Ken Darga]

Insure that your hands are NOT in the "red-zone"---

the red-zone being the danger zone around or close to the spinning saw blade.

Paint your tablesaw insert plate RED, to act as a reminder.

It may be necessary to use TWO push sticks to make some cuts---expecially ripping.

TIP:

When the cut is complete, shut-off the power to the saw, allow the blade to stop spinning, before removing the workpiece.

Use feather boards, to keep the workpiece firmly against the fence and on the table, when cutting.

NEVER cut thin strips between the saw blade and fence---they can get pinched, resulting in kick-back/ damage to the strips.

Cut thin strips on the opposite side of the sawblade, so they fall away from the blade.

[Keith Woythaler]

Thanks, Ken...great information

[Ken Darga]

Simple shop-made "push-stick":

3/4" dowel rod, 12" long, with rubber chair leg tips, on the ends.

Sand a flat on one side of the rubber chair leg tip, to prevent the rounded object from rolling.

[KregRep]

Keith,
Kreg sells a Multi-Purpose Push Stick. Along with providing safety in the shop, it has a handy pencil holder and removable locking depth gauge. Thanks to its narrow construction and ergonomic easy-grip handle, this Push Stick works great, even with the smallest of workpieces. You can learn more here: http://www.kregtool.com/MultiPurpose-Push-Stick-Prodview.html.
KregRep

[Jeff Metcalf]

Kieth;

I own the Kreg push stick for years now and still have it close by, but I also own 4 of the Micro Jig Units that Ken has told you about plus accessories they are by far the most safest units I have ever used on a table saw and I will never use a table saw with out them near by. I know many of  pro's and amateurs that have had hand surgeries due to table saws, 

[Gary roofner]

Here is a good push stick I just built 2 one for myself and one for my neighbor.

http://jayscustomcreations.com/2014/03/the-best-push-stick-ever-inv...

[Rick]

Push sticks are like ear protection ... just make sure you use them!