A push block would be useful and safe when cutting thin or narrow stock on which tool?

• A. Band saw
• B. Table saw
• C. Lathe
• D. Drill press

Answer: (B)

When you’re feeding thin or narrow stock through a blade, the risk is that your fingers can get too close to the cutting edge or the piece can pinch and kick back. A push block gives you a secure grip with a larger contact area, so you can push steadily and keep the stock pressed firmly against the fence and the table. This extra control is what makes the cut safer and more accurate on a table saw, especially when the stock is easy to tilt or bind.

The other tools aren’t typically used in this exact way for straight, through cuts. A lathe or drill press isn’t set up for feeding stock past a blade in the same controlled manner, and while you could use a push stick on a band saw, the table saw scenario is the standard situation where a push block most improves safety and control.