Best Push Sticks For A Table Saw (2024)
Having a kickback on the table saw or a close call with other power tools are the most nerve-wracking experiences in woodworking. Nearly all accidents could be prevented if you use the proper safety tools and techniques. This is why I reviewed and ranked the 10 best push sticks for the table saw to help you stay safe. I also picked the top 4, so you can pick the best one for your needs.
Microjig Grr-Ripper GR-100
The safest and most versatile push block that replaces your push stick.
POWERTEC 5 Pack Set
The best set of push sticks and push blocks for every safety need in your shop.
POWERTEC L-Push Stick
The L-shaped design gives you more control over a traditional push stick.
BOW PushPRO Push Stick
The best push stick available, with a unique non-marring EVA tip for more control.
We’re reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.
Table Of Contents
1. Microjig Grr-Ripper GR-100
Best Overall
9.8 out of 10
My Take
The Grr-Ripper is by far the best and safest way to control your workpiece when using any power tool. I personally use the Grr-Ripper on my table saw for rip cuts, dados, and rabbets and it completely replaced my traditional push stick. I also go into more detail in my review of the Microjig Grr-Ripper.
Key Features
Fully adjustable for any workpiece
3-directional force for complete control
High friction durable grip
Downward force to minimize kickback
Pros:
Increased Safety
Versatile
Durable
Cons:
Expensive
Requires Blade Guard Removal
Large
The Microjig Grr-Ripper push block is by far the best safety device for a table saw and is worth the money. Even though the Microjig 3D push block is not a push stick it is at the top of this list because it completely eliminates the need for a traditional push stick. The push block provides incredible versatility and greater control while guiding your wood through the saw blade. You can apply pressure in multiple directions and it's easy to maintain control compared to a traditional push stick.
I personally use my Grr-Ripper 3D push block almost every time I need to make a cut on my table saw rather than a push stick. I found the green grr-rip on the bottom provides enough grip and I have not had a board slip. Also, with the adjustable spacer in the center of the push block, you can easily cut thin strips while keeping pressure on the board. Also, Microjig offers a lot of add-ons so that you can use a push block for specific purposes, whether that's at the table saw, router or band saw.
The build quality and durability of the Grr-Ripper 3D push block are the best available. I have not had any issues and the grip of the block has not changed over time. Overall the Grr-Ripper is an excellent choice for a push stick replacement and in my mind a much safer way of controlling your workpiece. If you're looking for more information on the push block you can check out my review of the GR-100 here.
Overall the Microjig Grr-Ripper is the best push block available and the best replacement for a traditional push stick and is worth the money.
2. POWERTEC 5 Pack Set
Best Set
9.1 out of 10
My Take
If you don’t already have a set of push sticks and push blocks, this set from POWERTEC is by far the best. It has everything you need for a table saw, jointer, router table, and any other tool at a bundled price.
Key Features
Complete set for every tool in your shop
Simple and effective tools
Premium grip with replaceable pads
Bright orange for visibility
Pros:
Complete Set
Ergonomic Designs
Increased Safety
Cons:
Expensive
Non Adjustable
Not Versatile
The POWERTEC 5-pack set of push sticks is what I would recommend if you're looking for a complete set. The set has all the different sizes and types of push sticks and push blocks that you need when getting into woodworking. The POWERTEC set will help you make safer cuts on whatever machine you're working on and be able to grip any type of work piece.
The 5 different pieces of this kit include two push sticks, one an L-design and the other a traditional design, two standard push blocks, and a longer 2 handled push block. Each of the pieces has ergonomic handles and replaceable rubber pads for extra grip. In comparison to other sets the POWERTEC is by far of higher quality and design which is why I believe it's the best push stick set available.
One downside of this set is that all of them are non-adjustable push blocks. If you have a unique workpiece or need to rip narrow stock this set is not going to help you very much whereas the Grr-Ripper is better suited for nuanced scenarios. In some cases, I find it safer to use two of the simple push blocks, especially on the router table. Overall the POWERTEC set is the best you can get and will help you keep your fingers away from multiple tools.
If you're looking for the best pack of push sticks and push blocks the POWERTEC set is the perfect solution.
3. POWERTEC L-Push Stick
Best L-Stick
8.2 out of 10
My Take
If you're just looking for a single push stick the POWERTEC L-Push stick is what I would recommend over a traditional design. The L-shaped design helps prevent kickbacks by allowing downward pressure and still keeping your hand away from the blade.
Key Features
Ergonomic handle for 2 directions of force
Downward force to minimize kickback
Premium grip with replaceable pads
Quality materials that will last
Pros:
Downward Pressure
Ergonomic Design
Replaceable Pad
Cons:
Size
Non Adjustable
Not Versatile
The POWERTEC L-Push Stick is a great upgrade over the traditional style and provides safer and smoother cuts. The l-shaped push stick allows you to have downward pressure while still keeping your fingers away from the blade. The extra surface area and downward pressure help prevent the risk of injury and kickbacks. The POWERTEC L-push stick also has a replaceable rubber pad for a firm grip on your workpiece. Similar to the 5-pack set from POWERTEC you can expect the L-Push stick to be very durable and easy to use.
If you're looking for an upgraded push stick the L-design is the best option.
4. BOW PushPRO Push Stick
Best Push Stick
7.2 out of 10
My Take
If you like the traditional push stick design the PushPRO is your best replacement or upgrade. The handle is more ergonomic than others and the EVA tip provides more control of your workpiece by compressing and contouring around the boards.
Key Features
High-density EVA for greater feed control
Non-marring tips for all types of wood
Replaceable tips if damaged
Customizable handle if desired
Pros:
Increased Grip
Simple Design
Non-Marring Tips
Cons:
Expensive
Limited Functionality
One Direction of Force
The BOW PushPRO is the best push stick available due to its unique EVA tip that makes it easy to maintain control of your workpiece. The EVA tip is able to conform to the wood without marring the surface and reduce vibrations in comparison to a standard plastic push stick. The EVA tip also protects the user from flying pieces of plastic bits and the tip will not set off the safety trigger of a SawStop table saw. One important consideration is that the BOW PushPRO doesn't provide much downward pressure in comparison to the POWERTEC L-Push Stick. Although, one benefit of this push stick is that you are able to push a board through the blade without having to lean over the table saw.
In addition to using the BOW PushPRO at the table saw you could use the push stick with a band saw. The EVA tip will allow you to easily apply pressure and keep direct contact with the wood piece while making curved cuts. Overall, if you are looking for the best standard push stick the BOW PushPro is the best overall with more control and increased grip than a plastic push stick.
If you're concerned about damaging your workpiece the BOW PushPRO is the best choice.
5. Milescraft GrabberPRO
6.8 out of 10
My Take
The Milescraft GrabberPRO is a great alternative to the Gr-Ripper and at a more affordable price. The GrabberPro also comes with an adjustable heel to increase control. One downside is that the GrabberPRO is significantly larger than the original by Microjig.
Key Features
Adjustable heel for more control
Downward force to minimize kickback
Rubber-coated diamond grip
Fully adjustable for any workpiece
Pros:
Increased Safety
Adjustable
Durable
Cons:
Expensive
Requires Blade Guard Removal
Large
The Milescraft GrabberPRO is a more affordable solution with the same functionality as the Grr-Ripper. However, it does come with some downsides for the lower price. In my experience, Milescraft products are made with quality materials and you could experience some poor quality control and receive a defective push block. Otherwise, the GrabberPRO offers the same safety features with a grippy rubber base and the ability to apply downward and inward pressure. I personally feel these types of push blocks allow you to maintain control while guiding your boards over your table saw much easier than a traditional push stick.
One of the main differences between the Milescraft GrabberPRO and the Grr-Ripper is the size of the push block. The GrabberPRO is significantly larger in all aspects which could be a positive or a negative depending on your needs. The larger size can give you more direct contact with the wood surface increasing grip for larger boards. It can also help if you are primarily making rip cuts or breaking down rougher lumber. On the other hand, if you have precision jobs where you need a smaller more precise push block the Grr-Ripper is the better option. If you don't want to spend the money on the more expensive push block the GrabberPRO is something I would highly consider as it offers more safety than a traditional push stick.
If you want to save some money the Milescraft GrabberPro is a great alternative.
6. POWERTEC Deluxe Push Stick
6.2 out of 10
My Take
If you're just looking for a cheap replacement to your traditional push stick the POWERTEC Deluxe is a great option. The push stick has a simple design however, it has integrated magnets for easy storage.
Key Features
Built-in magnets for easy storage
Simple and traditional design
Contoured ergonomic handle for ease of use
11.5 inches long for a safe distance from the blade
Pros:
Cheap
Simple Design
Durable
Cons:
Non Adjustable
Limited Functionality
One Direction of Force
The POWERTEC Deluxe push stick is a great standard replacement for a factory push stick with a few upgrades. The push stick has built-in magnets to quickly and easily store it, and it’s a bright orange which also helps to find it. Also in comparison to a factory push stick the POWERTEC version is more ergonomic and slightly larger at 11.5 inches long. If you're looking for a safer or better push stick there are much better options but if you just want a cheap replacement this is the best option with a few upgrades.
If you just need a cheap replacement the POWERTEC Deluxe is perfect and makes storage easy.
7. Hedgehog Push Stick
5.4 out of 10
My Take
The Hedgehog push stick is a great choice if you want to keep your hands far above the saw blade. The design allows for downward pressure while keeping your hand over 3 inches away from the top of your workpiece.
Key Features
Unique design for 2 directions of force
Narrow design for thin cuts
Neoprene strip for increased grip
Shatter-resistant molded glass fiber-reinforced nylon
Pros:
Durable
Simple Design
Increased Safety
Cons:
Expensive
Narrow
Limited Functionality
The Hedgehog push stick is a unique design that mimics the functionality of an L-shaped push stick. The unique design allows you to keep your fingers away from the blade while pushing the board through the blade. The Hedgehog push stick keeps your fingers over 3 inches above the blade whereas other push sticks are typically within 2 inches. One downside of the Hedgehog is that the push stick is very narrow, which may be useful if you regularly rip thin boards. But for most purposes, you would want more surface area to grip the board. However, this type of push stick allows you to still use a riving knife in your table saw increasing safety on rip cuts.
If you're concerned with your hand being close to the blade the Hedgehog is the best for you.
8. BOW MINI PushPRO
4.5 out of 10
My Take
If you need a small push stick for intricate work the MINI PushPRO is the only option. The smaller handle would make things easier on a band saw or for small projects. However, I would not buy this as your sole push stick for a table saw.
Key Features
High-density EVA for greater feed control
Non-marring tips for all types of wood
Replaceable tips if damaged
Customizable handle if desired
Pros:
Increased Grip
Simple Design
Non-Marring Tips
Cons:
Expensive
Small Size
One Direction of Force
The BOW Mini PushPRO is identical to the BOW PushPRO just in a compact size. The Mini PushPRO would be great for holding down small pieces on a table saw sled or if you do intricate work on a band saw. The EVA tip is great for conforming to the wood while giving you greater control than a traditional plastic push stick. I personally would not use the MINI PushPRO on a table saw due to the size for I could see it come in handy for smaller unique situations.
If you need a mini push stick the BOW MINI would be my go-to option.
9. Peachtree 5 Pack Set
3.7 out of 10
My Take
If you're looking for a budget set of push sticks the 5-pack from Peachtree is what I would recommend. The set from Peachtree has all the essentials for each of your woodworking tools with a bright orange color for easy visibility and soft rubber foam pads for extra grip.
Key Features
Complete set for every tool in your shop
Simple and effective tools
Rubber foam pads for increased grip
Bright orange for visibility
Pros:
Complete Set
Ergonomic Designs
Increased Safety
Cons:
Expensive
Non Adjustable
Not Versatile
The Peachtree 5-pack set of push sticks is a great budget option to get a lot for your money. The kit includes all the essential tools for safety including a push stick, an L-shaped push stick, two push blocks, and a long push block. The push block sets have a rubber base installed for increased grip and have ergonomic handles to make things easier. Overall, if your looking for the best push stick set I would recommend the POWERTEC set, but the Peachtree 5-pack set is a great alternative with the same functionality just at a lower cost.
If you need a cheap set of push sticks the 5-pack from Peachtree is a great choice.
10. Milescraft PushStick
3.6 out of 10
My Take
The Milescraft push stick is a very simple design with a more upright handle. If that is a feature you are looking for it’s a great option but there are better options for a safer push stick.
Key Features
TPE material for extra grip
Bright yellow for visibility
Extra tall handle for extra safety
Simple and minimal design
Pros:
Affordable
Simple Design
Tall Handle
Cons:
Small Size
Not Versatile
Non Adjustable
The Milescraft Push Stick has a unique design in that the handle is vertical in comparison to other push sticks with slanted designs. In addition to the handle being vertical, it is also slightly slanted to the right, which some have found useful. I personally believe there are much better options available and a slanted handle would give you more leverage for downward pressure. Also, a major downside of the Milescraft push stick is the size, its very small in comparison to other push sticks.
If you're looking for an upright handle the Milescraft push stick is your only option however, I feel there are safer options available.
Final Thoughts
Don’t be that person thinking they don’t need a push stick, nearly every woodworker has a scary story or accident, including me. Make sure you take all the safety precautions and use a push stick, any of the above will do just fine with some better than others. I hope this article helped you pick the best push stick for your specific needs.
To sum things up here are my top picks for this year:
If you're looking for the best overall for the safest operation, I highly recommend the Microjig Grr-Ripper GR-100.
If having a full set of push sticks and push blocks is what you're looking for, the POWERTEC 5 Pack Set is a great choice.
If you just need a simple and cheap push stick the POWERTEC L-Push Stick is your best option.
For the best push stick, the BOW PushPRO Push Stick is by far the most innovative.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
A lot of factors come into play, which is why I have an entire article dedicated to the question of when to use a push stick. Personally, I use a push stick for any cut where my fingers are within 6 inches of the blade or I feel uncomfortable with the cut. I tend to use a push stick for most cuts even on longer boards where I start with my hands and finish the cut using a push stick or push block.
-
The main difference between a push block and a push stick is that a push block provides a larger surface area and allows downward pressure. Also, a push stick has a notch allowing you to push on the end of a board, rather than the top of the board with a push block. A push stick is essentially a narrow stick that helps you guide your workpiece past the table saw blade. A traditional push block is a flat block with rubber grips to help push down and forward past the blade.
-
Over 85% of all table saw accidents are from blade contact with 10-15% resulting in amputation. This is primarily due to the hand being pulled into the blade during a cut. The best prevention of this would be to use a push stick or push block to keep your hand away from the blade in the case of an accident.
Related Articles
If you have any questions, comment below.
Let’s talk about it!
Affiliate links are used on this page. See my disclosure page for info on affiliate programs. The links do not cost anything extra to you! I receive a small percentage from the businesses you purchase from which help support creating content and helpful articles like this one!
