Woodpeckers has introduced a new push block called the PushGuard, and its unique design warrants a closer look.
A push block allows you to more safely handle cutting and routing tasks by keeping your fingers away from the blade or cutter head. Push blocks generally feature a flat surface that grips on to the material and a handle to hold on to.
Woodpeckers’ PushGuard has a vertical hand guard integrated into the design. The added guard, shown in the photos as the gray plastic piece, adds another level of safety for your fingers.
When using it with a router, you can install a chip deflector into the guard, and what this does is deflect debris away from your hands and face.
Price: $20 (introductory, $25 after)
Buy Now (via Woodpeckers)
Incra PushGuard
If it looks familiar, that’s because the Woodpeckers PushGuard appears to be identical to the Incra PushGuard with deflector shield, which was introduced a few years ago.
Both are made in the USA.
Price: $20
Buy Now (via Incra)
First Impressions
I like my hands and eyes, so I’ll do whatever I can to keep them safe in my workshop.
I have a couple of different push blocks and push sticks, but I like the look of the chip guard that the Woodpeckers and Incra PushGuard features.
In particular, I’ve always felt a bit (no pun intended) exposed when working on a router table without a fence. The hand guard and chip guard will add a welcome level of protection.
Woodpeckers or Incra? Seeing as how the two PushGuard products look identical, with exactly the same functionality, you can probably shop according to price. If some of Woodpeckers’ dealers start carrying it, you could potentially get the Woodpeckers PushGuard for a little less money than the Incra. That depends on what the “shipped” price will be.
See Also: Here’s why you need a Push Block
Other Push Block Options
Stuart reviewed the Bench Dog push block.
