When is it necessary to use a push stick on the Table Saw?

Using a push stick on the table saw is essential when ripping pieces narrower than 6 inches. This practice ensures that your hands remain a safe distance from the blade, reducing the risk of injury. Thin or narrow pieces can be more difficult to control and could potentially be pulled into the blade if not handled properly.

A push stick provides the necessary leverage to push the material through the saw, allowing for precise cuts while maintaining a safe distance from the blade. It also helps to keep fingers clear from the cutting area, thereby enhancing overall safety when working with smaller material that might otherwise require closer proximity to the blade.

In contrast, when cutting larger sheets of material or ripping pieces wider than 6 inches, your hands generally have more space to maneuver safely, and you might be able to use other methods to guide the material without the increased risk that comes with narrower cuts. Cross cuts also typically use a different technique, often employing a cross-cut sled or miter gauge which reduces the need for using a push stick in that context.