Push Block for Table Saw – Detailed Guide
Push blocks are an essential safety tool for any woodworker using a table saw. A push block is a gripping tool that is used to guide a piece of wood safely through the saw blade, helping to prevent the wood from being kicked back by the blade and potentially causing injury.
A push block is used with a table saw to help guide wood safely through the saw blade. It is usually made of hard plastic or metal and is designed to fit over the blade of the saw. It can help reduce the risk of kickbacks.
In this article, we will discuss the importance of using push blocks with the table saws and how to properly use them for maximum safety. So, keep on reading to learn more.
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Importance of Push Blocks
Push blocks are an essential safety tool for any woodworker using a table saw. Not only do they help to prevent the wood from being kicked back by the saw blade, but they also help to keep your hands away from the blade, reducing the risk of injury.
In addition, push blocks can help to improve the accuracy and quality of your cuts by providing better control over the wood as it passes through the saw blade.
Different Types of Push Blocks
There are several different types of push blocks available, each designed for specific types of cuts and applications. Some common types of push blocks include:
- Standard push blocks: These are the most basic type of push block and are typically used for making straight cuts. They have a flat, rectangular shape and are typically made of hard plastic or rubber.
- Angled push blocks: These push blocks are designed for making angled cuts, such as miter cuts or bevel cuts. They have an angled face that helps to guide the wood at the correct angle as it passes through the saw blade.
- V-shaped push blocks: These push blocks are designed for making curved cuts, such as circles or curves. They have a V-shaped face that helps to guide the wood as it passes through the saw blade.
How to Use Push Blocks Properly?
Using push blocks properly is essential for maximum safety and accuracy. Here are some tips for using push blocks correctly:
- Always keep your hands behind the push block when pushing the wood through the saw blade. This will help to prevent your hands from coming into contact with the blade.
- Make sure the push block is securely gripping the wood. The push block should be firmly in contact with the wood, with no gaps or spaces that could allow the wood to move or slip.
- Use a push stick for smaller pieces of wood. For pieces of wood that are too small to grip with a push block, use a push stick instead. This is a long, thin tool that is used to push the wood through the saw blade.
Making Straight Cuts with a Push Block
To make straight cuts with a push block, follow these steps:
- Set the saw blade to the desired height and angle.
- Position the wood on the saw table, making sure it is securely held in place.
- Hold the push block in your dominant hand and place it against the end of the wood that will be cut first.
- Push the push block and the wood through the saw blade, keeping your hands behind the push block at all times.
- Continue pushing the push block and the wood through the blade until the cut is complete.
- Making Angled Cuts with a Push Block.
To make angled cuts with a push block, follow these steps:
- Set the saw blade to the desired height and angle.
- Position the wood on the saw table, making sure it is securely held in place.
- Hold the angled push block in your dominant hand and place it against the end of the wood that will be cut first.
- Push the push block and the wood through.
DIY push block for table saw
A push block is an essential tool for any table saw user. It allows you to safely guide the wood through the blade, preventing kickback and helping you make accurate cuts.
To make your own push block, you’ll need a few basic tools and materials.
Materials:
- 1/2” plywood
- 1/4” plywood
- 2 1/2” wood screws
- 1” drywall screws
- Wood glue
Tools:
- Table saw
- Jigsaw
- Drill
- Sandpaper
- Ruler
Instructions:
- Cut the 1/2” plywood into two pieces that measure 10” x 4” each.
- Cut the 1/4” plywood into two pieces that measure 10” x 3” each.
- Glue the two 1/4” pieces to the larger 1/2” pieces, making sure they are centered and flush with the top and bottom edges.
- Clamp the two pieces together, and let dry.
- Using a jigsaw, cut a 1/2” wide slot into the top of the block, center, and run the full length of the block.
- Drill two 1/2” holes at each end of the block, centered and located 1” in from the edges.
- Using a drill and 1” drywall screws, attach the two 1/2” pieces together.
- Use sandpaper to finish the edges of the block.
Your DIY push block is now ready to use! It should provide a safe and secure way to push the wood through your table saw and allow for more accurate cuts.
Conclusion
When it comes to using a table saw, push blocks are an essential tool for maintaining a safe work environment.
Not only do they help you keep your fingers away from the blade, but they also help you make more accurate and precise cuts.
Having a push block handy on your table saw can help you become a more efficient and safe woodworker. I hope this blog post Push Block for Table Saw is helpful to you.
Related: How to Use a Table Saw?