Tip of the Week

The Perfect Push Block

Woodsmith Tips:  Weekly tips from the editors of Woodsmith and ShopNotes

The Perfect Push Block

To safely rip small pieces on the table saw, you really need the right kind of push block. There’s usually very little space between the blade and the fence for a simple push stick to pass. And then there’s the problem of controlling the flexing and vibration that usually occurs.

For years, my favorite push block for general ripping has been a simple, notched “two-by” block. This sacrificial push block hooks over the back end of the workpiece and then passes right over the saw blade giving me great control.

The same idea in a different size works great for ripping thin pieces. As you see at right, this push block is made from a piece of ³/₄″ MDF. A shallow notch at opposite ends of each side provides the push. But the key is the long edge that allows you to bear down on the workpiece and control the flex and vibration.