When it comes to working with a router table, safety should be a top priority. Featherboards and push sticks are two tools commonly used to ensure a safe and secure woodworking experience. While both tools serve the purpose of keeping your hands away from the router bit, they have distinct functions. In this article, we will discuss the differences between featherboards and push sticks and determine if push sticks can replace featherboards on a router table.
Understanding Featherboards:
Featherboards are designed to hold the workpiece tightly against the fence and table, preventing it from moving or slipping during the routing process. They consist of flexible “fingers” that apply pressure in a downward and forward direction, ensuring a secure grip on the workpiece. Featherboards are typically attached to the table or fence using T-slots or clamps, creating a consistent and stable feed.
Advantages of Featherboards:
- Improved Control: Featherboards help maintain a consistent feed rate, minimizing the chances of kickback and ensuring smooth and accurate cuts.
- Enhanced Safety: By keeping the workpiece firmly in place, featherboards reduce the risk of accidental contact with the router bit, minimizing the potential for injury.
- Versatility: Featherboards can be adjusted to accommodate different stock thicknesses, making them suitable for a variety of projects.
Understanding Push Sticks:
Push sticks are long, narrow tools used to guide the workpiece through the router bit while keeping the operator’s hands at a safe distance. They provide a means of applying controlled force to the wood, pushing it forward without the need for direct hand contact. Push sticks typically have a handle for grip, a notch or hook to engage the workpiece, and a narrow profile to fit in tight spaces.
Advantages of Push Sticks:
- Added Safety: Push sticks allow for a safe distance between the hands and the router bit, minimizing the risk of accidental injury.
- Better Control: With the ability to exert force on the workpiece without direct hand contact, push sticks offer improved control and precision during the routing process.
- Accessibility: Push sticks can be used on a variety of woodworking tools, including table saws and jointers, making them a versatile tool in any workshop.
While push sticks offer valuable safety benefits, they cannot fully replace featherboards on a router table. Featherboards provide additional control by holding the workpiece firmly against the table and fence, reducing the likelihood of it moving or shifting during routing. This stability ensures consistent and accurate cuts, especially when dealing with larger or heavier stock.
Using both Featherboards and Push Sticks:
For optimal safety and control, it is recommended to use both featherboards and push sticks on a router table. By combining the two tools, you can enjoy the benefits of enhanced stability, reduced kickback risk, and safe hand placement. Featherboards can be installed on the table and fence to hold the workpiece securely, while push sticks can be used to guide it through the router bit, keeping the operator’s hands at a safe distance.
When it comes to maintaining safety on a router table, it is crucial to use the appropriate tools and techniques. While push sticks offer an extra layer of protection, they cannot replace the stability and control provided by featherboards. By using both tools in conjunction, woodworkers can ensure a safe and efficient routing experience. Remember, safety should always be a priority in the workshop, and proper usage of featherboards and push sticks can help achieve that goal.