Have you ever felt your heart race while pushing a thin piece of wood through a spinning table saw blade? Every woodworker knows that the table saw is the most powerful tool in the shop, but it is also the most dangerous. A split-second mistake can lead to a serious injury. That is why a reliable push stick is not just an accessory; it is your most important safety partner.
Choosing the right push stick can feel overwhelming. The market is flooded with plastic models, wooden DIY designs, and complex ergonomic handles. You might struggle to know which shape provides the best grip or which material will hold up over years of hard work. Using the wrong tool can actually make your cuts less accurate or, worse, put your fingers in the path of danger. You need gear that feels like an extension of your own hand.
In this guide, we will cut through the confusion. We will break down the differences between push sticks, push blocks, and specialized jigs to help you find the perfect fit for your projects. You will learn how to improve your control, increase your safety, and gain the confidence you need to tackle any cut. Let’s look at the best options available so you can keep your fingers safe and your woodworking projects looking professional.
Top Push Sticks For Table Saw Recommendations
- INCLUDES: (1) Long Hold Down Push Block (1) Safe V Stick and (1) Straight Push Stick (2) Short Hold Down Push Blocks.
- BLOCK FUNCTION: Provides added hand safety while guiding wood for sawing and cutting - safety blocks allowing you to maintain a firm and steady downward pressure of the workpiece, without the bounce or chatter as it crosses the cutters blades.
- STICK FUNCTION: Offers enhanced hand safety while guiding wood for sawing and cutting – the l-shaped stick (also called a v push stick) allows you to push the entire work piece through the blades, and the standard straight push stick is great when you have limited space - both are narrow and are useful when working with smaller stock.
- APPLICATIONS: Push blocks are commonly used for face jointing, ripping plywood, routing and other woodworking applications and push sticks are commonly used in combination with jointers, tablesaws, router tables and shapers.
- DELUXE GRIP: Features an easy grip ergonomic handle that’s safe, easy to work with and feels natural in the hand; This premium safety push block and stick package was designed for durability, maximum control and engineered with a safety first approach to woodworking.
- INCLUDES: (1) Push Stick (Magnetic type) 11-21/32" long w/ notch width 9/16" and (1) L-Shaped Push Stick 8-21/32" x 5-15/16" w/ pad width 35/64"
- FUNCTION: Provides preventative hand protection and optimal stock movement control of your workpiece while it is being pushed through the saw blade or cutting head
- APPLICATIONS: Woodworking push sticks are commonly used in combination with tablesaws, radial arm saws, bandsaws, shapers, router tables, and jointers
- CRAFTSMANSHIP: Since occasional contact with the blade is inevitable, these well crafted woodworking hand safety tools were constructed for long-term durability, and designed to work securely with cleats, notches and other nonslip surfaces
- DELUXE GRIP: This premium version features a contoured ergonomic handle that’s easy to work with and feels natural in the hand
- Greater Feed Control: High density EVA tip conforms to the wood and dampens vibration for a cleaner cut versus plastic. EVA tip has slight conformance to wood for better feed control
- Replaceable and Reversable: Should the PushPRO accidentally contact a blade, EVA Tips are replaceable, and the push stick is as good as new. Unlike plastic push sticks, EVA will not harm carbide tip blades
- Non-Marring: EVA tips will not mar even the softest of wood under high tension. Plastic Push Sticks can dent soft woods or compress the surface adversely affecting stain and glue absorption
- EVA Protects You: Should a plastic push stick contact a cutter, the reaction can be violent and dangerous as the blade grips the push stick and shreds it. PushPRO's EVA Tips simply cut through. EVA will not set off a Saw Stop
- Customizable: Ergonomic and modular design allow you to adapt a custom handle of your preference
- ESSENTIAL SAFETY - Keep your hands safely away from blades when cutting narrow stock. A table saw push stick provides secure control on table saws, router tables, jointers, and shapers.
- MAGNETIC HANDLE - Built‑in dual magnets let you store the push stick directly on metal surfaces—no more losing track of your safety tools. Stays firmly in place without sliding or rotating.
- ERGONOMIC GRIP - The 12" push stick features a comfortable, contoured handle designed for stability, accuracy, and reduced fatigue during long woodworking sessions.
- HIGH‑VISIBILITY SAFETY ORANGE TIP - Bright safety‑orange notched end ensures you always see where the stick is positioned relative to the blade. Easy to spot in the workshop or tool storage.
- CONVENIENT 2 PACK - Includes two table saw push sticks with 90° notched ends for positive stock engagement. Hang them using the built‑in handle hole or store magnetically on your saw cabinet.
- INCLUDES: (2) Deluxe L-Shaped Push Sticks
- FUNCTION: Provides hand safety while guiding wood for sawing and cutting – allowing you to push the entire workpiece down with a single push stick
- APPLICATIONS: The L Push Sticks (sometimes referred to as V Push Sticks) are commonly used in combination with jointers, tablesaws, router tables and shapers
- CRAFTSMANSHIP: These well crafted woodworking hand safety tools were constructed for long-term durability, and designed with extended heels, additional padding and extra ribs for added structure(Patented)
- DELUXE GRIP: This premium pusher tool features a safe, ergonomic handle that’s easy to work with and feels natural in the hand
- Table Saw Pushblock: Protect hands and prevent kickback like never before
- Enhanced SafeRip Kit: With the New SafeRip Kit, GRR-RIPPER+ guarantees precise material handling, preventing accidental blade contact for faster and cleaner cuts on the table saw.
- Virtually Eliminate Kickback: Powerful downward, inward, and forward pressure delivers cleaner cuts and prevents material burn and kickback. It also keeps and controls the complete material throughout the entire cut.
- Superior Material Grip: The proven proprietary Green GRR-RIP ensures a confident hold on countless materials, from hardwoods to plywoods to plastics, enhancing safety and productivity even under challenging conditions. GRR-RIPPER+ comes with an exclusive limited lifetime warranty guaranteeing the grip will be protected against manufacturer defects for the life of the product.
- Proven Protection: Designed for use on table saws, router tables, jointers, and band saws, the GRR-RIPPER+ keeps hands and fingers well away from blades or bits without sacrificing Control of the material. It's a moving-blade guard for your health and safety!
- Includes (1) A24507 Push Stick.
- New, Bulk Packed.
- Genuine DeWalt Replacement Part.
- Consult owners manual for proper part number identification and proper installation.
- Please refer to list for compatibility.
- INCLUDES: (1) Long Hold Down Push Block (2) Short Hold Down Push Blocks (1) Safe V Stick and (1) Straight Push Stick
- BLOCK FUNCTION: Provides added hand safety while guiding wood for sawing and cutting - safety blocks allowing you to maintain a firm and steady downward pressure of the workpiece, without the bounce or chatter as it crosses the cutters blades
- STICK FUNCTION: Offers enhanced hand safety while guiding wood for sawing and cutting – the l-shaped stick (also called a v push stick) allows you to push the entire work piece through the blades, and the standard straight push stick is great when you have limited space - both are narrow and are useful when working with smaller stock
- APPLICATIONS: Push blocks are commonly used for face jointing, ripping plywood, routing and other woodworking applications and push sticks are commonly used in combination with jointers, tablesaws, router tables and shapers
- DELUXE GRIP/CRAFTSMANSHIP: Each premium pusher tool features an easy grip ergonomic handle that’s safe, easy to work with and feels natural in the hand; This premium safety push block and stick package was designed for durability, maximum control and engineered with a safety first approach to woodworking
The Essential Guide to Choosing the Best Table Saw Push Stick
A push stick is the most important safety tool in your workshop. It keeps your fingers far away from the spinning blade of your table saw. While it looks like a simple piece of plastic or wood, choosing the right one can make your cuts smoother and safer.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a push stick, look for a comfortable grip. You need to maintain full control of your wood while you push it through the saw. A good handle should fit your hand well and prevent slipping.
Another key feature is the “heel” or “notch” at the back of the tool. This notch hooks onto the end of your wood. It allows you to push the board forward with steady pressure. Some designs also include a narrow profile, which helps you make thin cuts without hitting the saw blade.
Materials Matter
You will mostly find push sticks made from two materials: plastic and wood.
- Plastic (High-Impact Polymer): These are very popular. They are bright colors, so you can find them easily on a messy workbench. If you accidentally hit a plastic push stick with your blade, it will not ruin your blade teeth.
- Wood: Many woodworkers prefer to make their own. Wood push sticks are sturdy and easy to customize. However, they can be dangerous if they get caught in the blade. Always use soft woods like pine so the blade cuts through them easily if an accident happens.
What Makes a Quality Push Stick?
Quality depends on stability and design. A high-quality push stick has a wide base. This prevents the tool from tipping over while you push. It should also have a rubberized bottom or a textured grip. This feature helps the tool “grab” the wood instead of sliding over it.
Avoid push sticks that are too thin or flexible. If the tool bends while you push, you might lose control of the wood. A stiff, solid tool is always the better choice for safety.
User Experience and Use Cases
New users should start with a “V” shaped push stick. These are great for general tasks and provide good downward pressure. If you do a lot of thin ripping, look for a “push block” style. These hold the wood down against the table surface while pushing it forward.
Always keep your push stick within arm’s reach. If you have to search for it, you might be tempted to use your hands instead. Never use your hands to push wood past the blade!
10 Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I really need a push stick?
A: Yes. It is the best way to keep your fingers away from the blade. Never risk your safety for a small cut.
Q: Can I make my own push stick?
A: Absolutely. It is a great first project for any woodworker. Just use soft wood so it is safe if it hits the blade.
Q: Should I buy plastic or wood?
A: Plastic is safer because it won’t damage your saw blade. Wood is cheaper if you make it yourself.
Q: How often should I replace my push stick?
A: Replace it if it becomes cracked, chipped, or if the bottom surface is no longer flat.
Q: What is the best color for a push stick?
A: Bright colors like neon orange or yellow are best. They are easy to spot on your saw table.
Q: Can one push stick do everything?
A: No. It is best to have a few different styles for different types of cuts.
Q: Does the weight of the push stick matter?
A: It should feel solid but not heavy. You want to feel the wood, not the tool.
Q: What happens if the blade cuts the push stick?
A: If it is plastic, the blade will just slice through it. If it is wood, it might kick back, so always wear safety glasses.
Q: Should the push stick be longer than the wood?
A: No, the push stick should be shorter than the wood so you can maintain control until the cut is finished.
Q: Is a push stick the same as a push block?
A: They are similar, but a push block is usually wider and used for holding wood down on the table surface.