Push sticks

[Popeye]

While reading another thread on Woodnet I ran across this link to a UK Woodworking site. I'm not a big blade guard user but I am a big pushstick user. There is a very good video on making push sticks of the style I like best but also one for the router table with a twist I hadn't seen before. Very much worth a couple of minutes of your time to watch. Probably alot of other good info there too but I haven't gotten than far on the site. Pat
http://www.ukworkshop.co.uk/

[cabinetman]

Good video, very informative. Handle shapes can make the difference in control. For stock that is short enough the rear tab works good. Having the shoe elongated does in fact help in holding down the stock towards the rear of the blade. For long stock, a flat bottom laminated with a non-skid fabric maintains a steady grip. When I have the need for a push stick, I may have more than one type within easy reach to change to.

Those plastic ones sold as push sticks can be dangerous. When in contact with the blade I've had them fracture and spew shards of sharp pieces. I'll only use ones I've made from wood. I keep a supply of 1/2" BB scrap for making them. The one stick he showed as damaged looks new compared to some I've pitched to the round file.
.

[dkerfoot]

That is a very good video, once you get past the shirt he is wearing...

[niki]

Oh yeh, good old Steve Maskery...he has a few more videos like "Short Fence" and "Square checker".

He is also writing new for a new UK woodworking magazine.

Personally, I like the notch a little bit back so I can push with my hand directly down and, I like them covered with anti-skid tape or sanding paper.

I modified even the original "Guide Master"

Regards
niki