Push blocks and push sticks are invaluable tools for the table saw and joiner. These accessories help keep your hands away from the blade and out of harm's way when cutting.
Nearly all of us have a good supply of push-sticks for the tablesaw, bandsaw or router table. However we may not have or use push-blocks to their full extent. A push-block is simply a square or rectangular block of wood, with a handle, that is used on top of the wood - as opposed to a push-stick which is used primarily to push a piece of wood from the rear...
When flattening boards, use a broad, flat push block. The cleated design is used in the right hand, at the board’s trailing edge, to feed the work into the cut. The padded block is used in the left hand, to keep the board from bouncing as it crosses the cutterhead.
If one thing should be on your list it definitely a push stick. Do not limit yourself to one model but ratter to deferent shape for various application. The push stick can be built from scrap wood such as pieces of plywood...
