How to Make an adjustable table saw push stick

Every time I walk in the house, after using my power tools, my wife looks over at me to count my fingers, as if I would nonchalantly walk through the house for a couple band-aids after cutting off a finger. One of the most dangerous tools in the shop is the Table saw, but there a ways to make it easy and safe to use. First and foremost, know how your saw works, second, keep your fingers far away from the blade. Even if your hands are far away from the blade, they can be sucked in with the board in the blink of an eye. So add another layer of protection by making a push stick. It’s an easy project that helps keep you safer in the shop while learning a few new skills in the process.

I did make some changes to the plans as I was putting them together based on feedback I received from the original video. First, I used a dowel for alignment, instead of the Metal screw. The screw was high enough in the back that I would never even come close to hitting with the saw blade, but for anyone who is new to woodworking, I would rather play it safe.

Second, I adjusted the holes in the back and the heel of the Push Stick so that the Heel could be flipped upside down when worn out. This gives you more life to the push stick.

I also adjusted the Knob to use 1 nut instead of two. This makes the knob tighten on the bolt, rather than the bolt screw into the Push stick. This will allow for better longevity of the parts.

I have created 2 sets of plans. The first is the original size that I have used for a long time now. The second is a slightly shortened version. While it is very easy to adjust the length to suit your individual needs, I wanted to lay out the options that I found to be useful. Let me know which one works better for you.

Included in the plans are a Summary view of the Push stick, An Assembly guide, a Detailed view of all items needed for the push stick and finally, a template. You can place the template right on the wood to mark your holes and cut lines. If you do end up making this, please post a photo and tag me @theeverymaker.

Be safe and have fun!


MUSIC:
Kubbi – Planet V (Exosphere)
http://kubbimusic.com/track/planet-v-exosphere
Kubbi – Compass
https://kubbi.bandcamp.com/track/compass
Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution 3.0: http://goo.gl/ATcAkB

Episode 8 – How to Make an adjustable push stick

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