-39-
Model W1701 (Mfd. Since 12/21)
O
PE
R
ATI
O
NS
When used correctly, push sticks reduce the risk of injury
by keeping hands away from the cutter/bit. In the event
of an accident, a push stick can absorb damage that
would have otherwise happened to hands or fingers. Use
push sticks whenever your hands will get within 12" of
the cutter/bit. To maintain control when shaping large
workpieces, start by feeding with your hands then use
push sticks to finish the operation, so your hands are not
on the end of the workpiece as it passes through the
cutter/bit.
Feeding:
Place the notched end of the push stick against
the end of the workpiece (see
Figure 46
), and move the
workpiece into the cutter/bit with steady downward and
forward pressure.
Making Push Sticks
Figure 45.
Side view of push stick in use.
90º
Cut here to
push
1
⁄
4
" stock
Cut here to push
1
⁄
2
" stock
Notch for placing on
corners of workpieces
15
3
/
4
" Minimum Length
MATERIAL: Only use hard-
wood, sturdy plywood, or
high-density plastic. Do not
use softwood that may break
under pressure or metal that
can break teeth from the
cutter!
SANDING: Sand
edges to remove
rough edges and
increase comfort.
SIZING: Push stick must
be at least 15
3
⁄
4
" long.
Use
1
⁄
2
"–
3
⁄
4
" thick
material.
Notch to help
prevent hand
from slipping
1
⁄
2
" Grid
Figure 46.
Template for basic shop-made push stick (not shown at actual size).
Making.a.Push.Stick
Use this template to make
your own push stick.
Supporting:
A second push stick can be
used to keep the workpiece firmly against
the fence while cutting. When using this
method, only apply pressure before the
cutter; otherwise, pushing the workpiece
against or behind the cutter will increase
the risk of kickback.
