148 – MicroJig GRR-Ripper Review

Video - May 5, 2011

The MicroJig GRR-Ripper is an ingenius safety device from the folks at MicroJig. Most power tools can injure you in two primary ways: kickback or blade/bit contact. The GRR-Ripper protects you from both types of injury. It not only allows you to have better control of the workpiece, it also protects your hands should disaster strike. In addition, the GRR-Ripper makes it possible to perform cuts that would otherwise be extremely dangerous, such as cutting odd shapes and thin strips.

To learn more about the MicroJig GRR-Ripper, head to MicroJig.com.

Get a grip on your work today!

Win a MicroJig GRR-Ripper!

THE GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED! MicroJig was kind enough to offer up three MicroJig GRR-Rippers as a random giveaway! All you have to do is leave a meaningful comment on any one of this week’s safety-related posts. The more you comment, the better your chances of winning. But if you just say something silly, that won’t count. Winners will be announced on Friday May 6th. Giveaway is limited to US and CANADA only.

Discussion

Mitch May 5, 2011 11:08 am

Thanks, as always, for starting safety week and keeping it going!

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Joe (required) May 5, 2011 11:17 am

Great video! Need to get one (or two) of these.

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Luc May 5, 2011 11:20 am

Like Tony the Tiger would say: works grrrreat!

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Nick Brezinski May 5, 2011 11:33 am

Marc

Do you see this as a better solution then an aftermarket splitter or riving knife? I have an older saw and in the process of trying to find “safety” devices….

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- thewoodwhisperer May 5, 2011 11:37 am
  
  Absolutely not. This is something you want to do in addition to a splitter or riving knife. Sounds like the MJ Splitter is right up your alley and will work well with something like the GRR-Ripper.
  
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  - Nick Brezinski May 5, 2011 12:19 pm
    
    Sounds like a killer combo… I’ll take care of the splitter and you take care of the GRR-Ripper… ;)
    
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    - Chris May 6, 2011 4:31 am
      
      Unfortunately the saw I was using (an old bench top Delta) just didn’t have an option for adding a zero clearance insert. I’ve since upgraded to a larger saw but haven’t gotten around to ordering the new insert for it. What better time to place the order then safety week?
  - Raymond May 13, 2011 6:19 am
    
    My first thoughts exactly. One can experience kickback by the work piece shooting straight back like an arrow, or by the work piece contacting the rising teeth at the rear of the blade. IMHO the later one is the most dangerous.
    
    If the work piece shoots straight back, something behind you might get damaged (besides the work piece) and hopefully you don?t have someone standing straight behind you either. However, if the work piece gets caught by the rising teeth in the rear, that work piece could be headed for your chest-neck-face area at skydiving speed – don?t ask me how I know, but it hurts and there?s not enough reaction time to jump out of the way.
    
    The gripper looks like a great way to reduce the chances of both scenarios above, but it still doesn?t prevent accidental contact with the rear of the blade. Only a splitter/riving knife can do that ? and only after the leading edge of the work piece has passed the leading edge of the splitter/riving knife. If you happen to slip while using this gripper without a riving knife (or something like the MJ Splitter that further reduces the chance of kick back and allows the gripper to pass over it) you could have an exhilarating and painful experience.
    
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Jay May 5, 2011 11:35 am

My dad bought a kit at a WWing show and they hung on nails next to the saw for some time. I recently used them and WOW! I highly recommend the Gripper to anyone for any of the applications you showed in the video.

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Sanford May 5, 2011 11:36 am

Learned some interesting new ways of approaching safety. Will put them into use right away. Thanks.

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Kevin May 5, 2011 11:40 am

Thanks for the video Marc. I just bought my first table saw 3 days ago, and as I have been experimenting with it there have been a lot of cuts that I am not sure I know how to make safely. I?ve been watching your videos but it?s impossible to run through every scenario that I may come across. This jig looks like pretty intuitive and it should do just about anything I need it to. And with the amount of pushsticks and gripper pads and everything else woodworkers seem to have maybe picking up one or two of these right at the start would be a wise investment.
Thanks as always for the tips!

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Mike May 5, 2011 11:43 am

I saw a demo of this at a Woodcraft store recently. It looks like a great product. I like the fact that you can not only push your wood through the saw, but can actually control it side to side unlike a normal push stick. Keeps those fingers even farther from the blade, which is a good thing.

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Justin May 5, 2011 11:45 am

Just starting out with my first table saw I think this product is absoutely perfect! I have seen too many videos of regular push sticks and the dangers that can happen by pushing on just one corner!

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OfficeSpaceWoodworking May 5, 2011 11:48 am

I have yet to see anyone use a grr-riper as common practice on another woodworking vlog, but the product itself is such an ingenious idea and design, especially for ripping small parts. Putting it on my “To Buy” list right now.

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Marty May 5, 2011 11:56 am

I bought the original that Marc has after watching him use it on a WW video and seeing it demoed at a trade show. The only negative is it gets a little pricey when you start adding all the accessories. But this is the best push block out there and whoever wins one of these will be very happy. Very nice prize Marc and MicroJig. :)

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Kerry Drake May 5, 2011 11:58 am

I have two Grrripers and would not mind a third. I use it on the table saw, router table and the jointer (I’d use it on the radial arm saw if I could figure out how).

On the Table Saw the Gripper keeps my hands well away from everything and provides control to both sides of the cut! By far the best safety thing I own.

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Matthew Hills May 5, 2011 11:58 am

I’ve often heard that this device is helpful when ripping thin stock. How foolproof is it in terms of keeping your hands out of the blade? (I’m assuming it is non-conductive, so it wouldn’t trigger a sawstop unless you somehow still managed to get a hand in?)

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- thewoodwhisperer May 5, 2011 12:00 pm
  
  Well nothing is fool-proof, but it is effective. Keep you safe at the saw can be boiled down to two parts: keeping the work under control and keeping your hands as far as possible from the blade. This tool accomplishes both. But use it improperly and all bets are off.
  And I think you’re right on the plastic. There’s really no metal to worry about in the rubber/plastic feet.
  
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Ryan May 5, 2011 12:13 pm

I used to think my shop made push stick was effective and safe until I saw this video.

Thanks Marc

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Lamar May 5, 2011 12:31 pm

I watched a demo of this at the Atl woodworking show. The guy demoing the prodcut showed making very rips by cutting through one of the few with the blade. He said see you can make custom sizes and you can buy extra feet for $. It was a funny demo.

I have one of these and love it.

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Pete May 5, 2011 1:08 pm

I purchased a Grr-Ripper at the woodworking show last year. It is awesome at making those thin strip cuts. The show special came with a 1/8 inch leg and I used it for cutting 1/8 inch thin strips for box corner splines. Quick and safe!

I like the quick shot you showed on using it to resaw on the band saw.

Pete

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Francois Paquette May 5, 2011 1:10 pm

Marc,

Do you if this product is available in Canada?

Thanks.

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- Zack Fleming June 7, 2011 7:34 pm
  
  I think I saw them in one of Lee Valley’s recent catalogues. Bought the universal featherboard from them and like it.
  
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rgdaniel May 5, 2011 1:13 pm

I love those things…. mines pretty hacked up though… time for a new one

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Adam May 5, 2011 1:22 pm

Wow. I didn’t even know that this existed. I’m pretty new to woodwprkig and this site. Thanks for the video and review / demo.

Off to research the grripper…

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Chris Pravetz May 5, 2011 1:28 pm

I have two Grrippers – an older one and a newer one that has came with a bridge for the handle. If you have the older one, order the handle bridge – I find that the extra height gives me just a bit more leverage.

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Rob May 5, 2011 1:46 pm

Excellent video ? new woodworker slowing trying to improve my skills on projects and have been finding certain tasks are very unsafe. Your demonstration of this product has help me improve my skills and techniques. I am going out to invest in a gripper for this weekend?s woodworking project.

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Sean R May 5, 2011 1:47 pm

Great, thanks, Marc. Now I have to get one and my wife will thank you for it. She is always nervous when I work in our garage.

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Aaron B (Dalsaw) May 5, 2011 1:51 pm

Great Video Marc! I could use one or two of those GRR-Ripper’s..

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Jesse May 5, 2011 2:13 pm

How does the gripper handle in dust? Does it get slippery? I noticed a couple of small slips, but that, I feel, is normal.

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Brandon W May 5, 2011 2:14 pm

$69.99 MSRP seems like a small price to pay for piece of mind re: safety and precision woodworking. I’m going to start saving my allowance for this…

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MarkinPhx May 5, 2011 2:20 pm

Great video Marc!! I recently cut some edge banding and experianced some “interesting moments” when the lip on the plywood push block I was using got cut off. I think I will be adding one of these accessories to my push stick collection.

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james moreland May 5, 2011 2:52 pm

I have two grippers and I think everyone should have some.I use them almost every time I’m at the table saw.I do wish marc would redo thier instructional video that I got with mine.It is very informative in the use of it,but,it could use some polishing.

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Eric Casequin May 5, 2011 4:16 pm

Thanks for talking about the Gripper in detail this time. I’ve been hoping to see something more on it since last you shown it in your Gadget Station Pt. 12 video. Think you talked about it more in another one but can’t remember specifically.

Anyhow, thanks for giving yet another opportunity to win wonderful stuff.

Almost 4GB’s in podcasts baby. oh yeah.

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Adam Baum May 5, 2011 4:41 pm

I’ve had my Grippers for a few years now and love them. Rather than purchasing extra hooks, I make my own out of whatever I have laying around the shop.

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Marilyn May 5, 2011 4:49 pm

I have one of these and have wanted a second one for a while to do longer pieces with the over hand method. Like James above, I use mine almost every time. Yes, its a bit pricey, but I decided to invest in safety almost before I purchased anything else.

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Chris May 5, 2011 5:02 pm

Don’t think the grr-ripper would have helped with this, but I had a close call with kickback recently while cutting the tapers on the legs for the shaker table. When the thin piece was cut free it fell in the space between the blade and the insert and the other end came quickly swinging back towards me. Thankfully it didn’t go flying off the table, but sure scared me away from the saw for a few minutes.

Time to get a zero clearance insert I guess!

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- thewoodwhisperer May 5, 2011 5:06 pm
  
  Yeah I definitely don’t talk about that enough because I consider a zero clearance insert “standard operating equipment”. I think you’ll enjoy not only the increased safety, but also the better quality cuts.
  
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  - Jerrick May 5, 2011 7:13 pm
    
    Agreed, I often wonder why manufacturers don’t provide zero-clearance inserts as standard equipment.
    
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Don Clark May 5, 2011 5:19 pm

Had my eye on one of these since I first saw a promo video for one…might have even been something you did. The versatility is just amazing and you can’t beat the safety!

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Dean May 5, 2011 5:40 pm

Since SawStop, as well as all other table saws, are equal in what you can use on them for preventing kickback (examples: splitters, riving knives, anti-kickback pawls), it seems the GRR-Ripper would be a nice addition. For the many that don?t own a SawStop, having an option like the GRR-Ripper sounds like a nice extra layer of safety, including putting an additional barrier between your fingers and the saw blade. When you add in what Marc stated in the video, the value of reduced burn marks and smoother cuts, and being able to use the GRR-Ripper on other power tools, then the cost of a GRR-Ripper seems like a small price to pay.

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MikeM May 5, 2011 5:43 pm

I have the microjig splitter on my TS. Very well made, and does the job well. The installation is a bit involved, but it is well worth for that added safety!

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Emmrys May 5, 2011 6:06 pm

I have a GRR=Ripper. I don’t use my TS very much and have never put the GRR=Ripper together. I am glad to see it used on other tools. Time to crack that box open and start the assembly!

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Sigvald Harstad May 5, 2011 6:25 pm

That gripper looks like a really cool tool. I Will pick one up if i ever see it in the city. keep up the good work :)!!

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Jim Lewis May 5, 2011 6:46 pm

Ok as a former shop teacher I have a safety issue with this episode. What is with the square washer, penny, and wrench on the fence of a running saw. Any of those item that get bumped or vibrate into the blade and that is all she wrote. Not sure I recommend all the garbage on the other side of the fence either.

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- thewoodwhisperer May 5, 2011 8:32 pm
  
  Well I’m definitely not perfect. My shop is still not fully together so things are not in their usual place and I tend to fill up whatever horizontal surface is available. I’ll have to get that stuff off the fence before the next video. But I don’t think I’ll ever be diligent enough to have a completely clear table to the right of the fence. Its messy, but I don’t really see it as much of a hazard.
  
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  - Jim Lewis May 5, 2011 9:22 pm
    
    The hazard I see to the stuff on the right is a distraction hazard. It moves and you try to catch it or falls and cause you to look away. I’ve been know to put my cut boards over there:) I guess I was a do as I say not as I do on that.
    
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Bob May 5, 2011 6:51 pm

I bought two of the GRR-Ripper?s at the Woodworking Show a number of years ago and love them; keep them next to the table saw and use them on most cuts. When making cuts on the band saw I never thought of using the GRR-Ripper, maybe next time. I dedicated two rubber push pads and one wooden push block with a lip at the jointer that work well. I find that having dedicated safety gear at each power tool helps prevent me from being lazy and doing something stupid without safety equipment.

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Ed Hickcox May 5, 2011 6:51 pm

I’ve always been impressed by your… I hesitate to say insistence, but maybe instead your constant and consistent presentation of safety issues on your blog and in your videos. Like you have said before, “I like woodworking and I want to keep doing it when I am an old man.” Hard to do that when you’re missing a hand or dying of emphysema. Soldier on, safety hero!

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James H May 5, 2011 7:44 pm

When using a pushblock or “The GRR-Ripper”, don’t make the mistake I made. I had just finished face and edge jointing, went to the table saw to rip to width. I had an offcut that was about 1/2 inch thick and decided to use the pushblock to push away the offcut, hey I’m using a pushblock so my hand won’t get too close to the blade, right? Wrong.

Now that you are all seeing blood in your imagination, I was uninjured. I contacted the blade with the bottom corner of the pushblock. The blade aggressively started pulling the pushblock and my had into the blade. Luckily, I was able to realize what was happening and jerk away fast enough that the blade only contacted the pushblock and not flesh.

A careless rookie mistake, I’ll never make again. It was before safety week was conceived, and I was very uneducated on the dangers of a table saw at the time. I’m thankful for Safety Week, it will surely help prevent me from making another similar mistake that could have much more gruesome results.

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thawk May 5, 2011 8:04 pm

Nice video Marc, thanks for the overview on the Grr-ripper. i am going to pick one up if i am not one of the lucky ones on Friday..

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Craig Clemans May 5, 2011 8:07 pm

Anyone that looks at a spinning blade of a table saw and has a small piece to run through it, will want one or two of these real quick. Money well spent to save a few digits.

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Beechwood Chip May 5, 2011 8:08 pm

If there’s anyone out there that isn’t buying the GrrRipper because it’s a little pricey, or has a tricky cut to make now and doesn’t want to wait until they have a GrrRipper…

You can make a push pad with a thick, sacrificial wooden base and a mouse pad or some rubber shelf liner material. Then, just let the saw blade cut through it. You can even put a wooden stop on the back, and with some wing nuts you can make the adjustable side foot.

Me, I bought a GrrRipper. It lasts longer, and besides I’d rather reward the people who came up with the idea. Copying the idea feels like a rip-off. But, if it’s a choice between an unsafe cut and improvising a temporary GrrRipper, I’d be safe.

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josh bucher May 5, 2011 8:14 pm

You could use the GRR-Ripper to rip some hard wood to a 1/4″ or so, then crosscut them, to make some sacrificial tabs for the back if you don’t want to buy a bunch of extras…

I’ve never heard of the GRR-Ripper until now. I am thinking about trying one.

Good Video, Thanks.

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Kevin May 5, 2011 8:23 pm

I’ve been thinking about buying one of these for awhile, but now you make me think that I need two of them… your demo of ripping a longer board makes too much sense. I really should buy one (or win one…).

The only semi-negative I possibly see with the GRR-Ripper is that you can’t use the blade guard anymore, but this is now your better blade guard. A lot of saws have the blade guard permanently attached to the splitter or riving knife though.

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- Jay May 8, 2011 1:21 pm
  
  I got two grippers when I bought my Sawstop. I watched many videos and began using them for all my cuts. There were many things I liked about them, especially their ability to make thin strip cutting more straightforward.
  
  The main thing I don’t like about the GrrRipper system is that you can’t use your blade guard, which severely impacts dust control. The factory guard was pretty good at grabbing dust, but then I bought a Shark Guard. It grabs nearly 100% of the fine dust, even when cleaning up an edge. And the design of its splitter/knife is a massive safety improvement over the splitter on the factory guard.
  
  The other thing that moved me away from the GrrRipper was watching the dvd set “Revelations on Table Saw Set-up and Safety” located here:
  
  http://www.passionforwood.com/dvds-tablesaw.htm
  
  In short, everyone that touches a table saw should watch those dvds. I do use the GrrRipper now and then, but for an average cut, I’ve found having the riving knife positioned correctly to within a few .001″, and the fence out of parallel by .005″ has made the biggest difference.
  
  And, (not to sound smug) if you think the main reason for the splitter is to keep the kerf open you’d be wrong. The splitter/knife is your third hand that keeps your workpiece against the fence. In order for that to work, it needs to be adjusted very precisely.
  
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Erik May 5, 2011 9:43 pm

Another advantage to having two of these is you can have one set up with the support on the 1/4″ side and one on the 1/2″ side. I find myself constantly moving the support from side to side in order to have the most support on the fence side of the blade.

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Vic Hubbard May 5, 2011 9:48 pm

I’ve been meaning to get another for awhile. I’ve found the rubber on this to be much better than any of my other push pads. In particular I like that you have equal pressure on both sides of a cut as a board passes through the blade. It greatly decrease the risk of kick back and that’s something I’d like never to revisit. How was that? Serious enough? :oD

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Lori May 5, 2011 10:39 pm

I have one of these in my shop and they are so handy when cutting thin stock in particular. I’ve found that I really like to have a tab at the back of mine for added support when pushing wood through the tools. I’m quite intimidated by my table saw…but I still respect it. I think the Grr-Ripper gives me so much more control than any other “push-stick” I’ve ever used. I feel much more confident when I use it in my shop, especially on my table saw and router table. Great video Marc…it’s always nice to watch your videos…I learn so much. Happy Woodworking everyone! ~Lori

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Paul May 5, 2011 11:20 pm

I am seriously thinking about shop safety latley. I have had two instances recently that scared the daylights out of me while using the table saw. I just replaced the blade with a high end rip blade and that seemed to help alot. I guess I am lucky all it took was a close call before I brokedown and spent some money on a blade, I may need to spend more money on the GSR Ripper tool. Thanks alot for all the great info. Paul

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Charlie May 6, 2011 5:23 am

Marc,
Thanks for knocking me off the fence. I have been considering this push alternative for some time, but was having trouble reasoning the price point to usefulness, I think you nailed it for me.
Thanks

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lancer May 6, 2011 5:36 am

Me and my wife were making our coffee table and was cutting 1inch peaces of stock. Befor bying it i was using a push stick. And just like Mark said its very unsafe. Then I did some reserch and found the GRR-ripper. What a diferance this tool has made. My fingers are kept at a safe distance and no more worring abought kickback.
I even bought the 1/8 inch attachment. To cut even smaller stock.

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Matt S May 6, 2011 5:47 am

Marc,

How often do you find yourself having to choose between using the GRR-Ripper and your overarm blade guard/dust collection Brett Guard? I like using my Brett-Guard to catch the dust and help protect me from kickback, and usually can find a combination of push stick/shoe and guard position that will let me make most cuts. However, with the GRR-Ripper I would no longer have that option–but some cuts would be much safer. How often do you find yourself having to make the choice?

Matt

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- thewoodwhisperer May 6, 2011 7:09 am
  
  Most times, I use the GRR-Ripper for smaller/tricky cuts. These are cuts that would normally require the guard to be removed anyway.
  
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Jim J May 6, 2011 6:52 am

Gotta get me one of these. Actually 2 would be great since I cut some fairly long pieces from time to time.

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Will May 6, 2011 7:06 am

I’m not sure I’m 100% sold on using two grippers for longer stock. By having your body up against the front of the saw you’re only able to contact the board near the cut. As a result it’s probably a little difficult to keep the board perfectly up against the fence. By using a feather board and then standing back and holding the back of the board you have two points of contact at opposite ends of the board so I’d think you could do a better job steering the board and keeping it up against he fence. Setting the feather board and adjusting the fence all the time can be a PITA when doing lots of similar cuts though so the gripper does have some serious benifits for sure.

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Ted May 6, 2011 7:20 am

After 30+ years of cabinet making and finish work, I have to say the one safety item that is a must with any table saw, is an outfeed table. Without one you are asking for trouble. I have seen more injuries caused by not using an out feed table than any other safety tool with a table saw. Yes kickbacks are a huge concern as well. Riving knife, splitters, feather boards and push sticks are a must to prevent kickbacks…

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Jay Talbott May 6, 2011 7:30 am

I love my GRR-Rippers! Great for cuts that are within a few inches of the fence, where there’s no safe room for a hand in there. After my first (and only) encounter with kick back, I bought a pair of GRR-Rippers and I’m totally sold. Everybody should have these. I use them on the jointer and the router table too.

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Matt May 6, 2011 7:50 am

Nice demo of the product. For a push stick, I typically use a scrap piece of 2×4 and rip it down with my bandsaw to the last 1/4″ for a small hook. that’s a free way to solve many of the problems with the other types of push sticks. Although I might look for a birthday gripper too..

Love the site keep it coming.

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Kevin May 6, 2011 7:52 am

Man, I have seen that item before and looks like a great idea!!! I hate getting the fingers close to the blade and have dealt with kickback in the past!!! I just may have to go out and pick one up!!!

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Tom O’Brien May 6, 2011 8:44 am

The one that really catches my eye is the zero-play guide bar. It is the best idea I have seen for removing play in the miter slot. Anything that will make cutting more accurate will also help make it safer.

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Jonathan May 6, 2011 9:14 am

I have a GRR-riper and it is fantastic. Very versatile and easy to use. I recommended to anyone. I also have the Micro-jig splitter that I loved at first, until the plastic bent and broke. I would like to get the steel ones. Hopefully they will be more rugged.

Jonathan
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Mitch Wilson May 6, 2011 9:26 am

I haven’t yet watched your video yet, but I can comment on the GRR-Rippers. They are great. I got one almost two years ago, and immediately realized that you really need two. After a kickback incident in 1985, I really shied away from the table saw. Now I don’t hesitate to rip my boards, and that includes very thin strips. Get the whole shebang, including the handles and deflectors and thin feet. (Full disclosure-I have absolutely no affiliation with the company. Just a very satisfied customer.) Think of it this way. I am left-handed. Is my right hand pinkie (my least valuable finger) worth $200 to me? Well, yes. My new table saw (the old one is a thirty year old Makita contractor’s, the new one a General International hybrid) is due in at the end of the month, so I’ll be getting, for the first time, a zero clearance insert. Also the MJ Splitters. And I want to also emphasize how valuable the GRR-Ripper is when using a router table with fence. All of your really finicky work becomes much more precisely done when using this. I really didn’t think I would use it a lot with my router, but I was wrong. And since you have to spend a little more time setting up your GRR-Rippers properly with the table saw, your level of safety goes up considerably. It may slow you done a couple of minutes, but it’s time well spent. Worth the money, worth the time, worth the effort.

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Tomfoolery May 6, 2011 9:45 am

I have one of these and it amazes me everytime i notice that it got touched by the blade. It makes me thankful that I used it!

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Mark Gowans May 6, 2011 10:05 am

‘Green grippy stuff’. I just love your terminology Marc ;-)

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Steve May 6, 2011 10:19 am

Great video and great product. I have been wanting to get one of these for some time now. Thank you.

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Dax May 6, 2011 10:58 am

Great video. I bought one a few months ago, read the instruction book and then went to resaw some smaller pieces of soft maple on my table saw. It was scary. What I should have done was gone to the web site and watch some of the videos. For novices like me, just buying something that helps with safety doesn’t automatically make you/it safe. You actually have to learn how to use it in the proper/safe way.
I wish I had a table saw with a riving knife. Even an after market splitter will be too tall to have it installed and use the Grr-ripper. But I think I’ll get another one for the two-handed action on the router table.

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Brian May 6, 2011 11:06 am

As a new and aspiring woodworker this would greatly improve the safty of my shop!!!

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Earl May 6, 2011 11:34 am

This is just a blatant promotional video !

I have to say marc, I’m a bit disappointed…

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- thewoodwhisperer May 6, 2011 12:26 pm
  
  Come on Earl! SHH…… Don’t say that too loud because then everyone will know that this is a blatant promotional video about a MicroJig product, sponsored by MicroJig, during Safety Week, which was sponsored by MicroJig. It’ll just be our secret!
  
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  - Eric Casequin May 6, 2011 2:32 pm
    
    LOL Marc.
    
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  - Vic Hubbard May 7, 2011 9:02 pm
    
    ??? It was??? Man, I need to pay attention!
    
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- Gary Hanson May 13, 2011 4:12 pm
  
  This may be a promotional video……..but unless you don’t value your fingers, hand or other body parts this is a great product..
  
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runinngwood May 6, 2011 12:20 pm

Great video and great product. They probably also make great hamburger presses for the grill !?

The hand over hand maneuver looks like it could be dangerous because one hand may cross over the blade and temporarily block the users view of the blade ??.

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Kent Eggers May 6, 2011 12:32 pm

Hey Marc,

Great video as usual. I’ve been a great proponent of the GRR-Ripper since I first purchased mine. I bought a second one for myself just before Christmas, but gave it instead to my brother who had just purchased his first table saw. I can’t imagine giving anyone a woodworking related gift more in tune with safety than the GRR-Ripper. Thanks for making this video. It will probably save someone’s fingers.

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George McIntyre May 6, 2011 12:50 pm

My neighbor brings his with him when ever he comes to work in my shop. I need to get a couple of these real soon.

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PickeringMike May 6, 2011 12:50 pm

I’ll probably pick up one myself. I’ve seen you using these for some time now and keep thinking, “I could really use one”. I’ve done thin rips before only to have them shoot out the garage door and bounce off the car hood. Not fun!

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Mitch Wilson May 6, 2011 1:17 pm

To Runningwood
The leap frogging/hand over hand technique actually works quite well. As with all things, you need to devote your undivided attention to the task at hand (no pun intended) and be consciencous(sic), and just go slow with the cut (but don’t burn the wood). I have also found that instead of lifting & alternating the Grippers, you can just slide the back one further back and then the more forward one back towards the blade (as with using your jointer), so that neither one ever leaves contact with the board. A little slower, but still quite effective.

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Bob Rankin May 6, 2011 1:24 pm

I’d love to try one of the grr rippers. I’ve had a few wood missiles hit me over the years even when I thought I was being careful. I still have an abdomen scar from a ts incident. These things act as a guide all the way through rather than just pushing it from behind. The width adjustment is awesome as well. They say they will eventually get knocked and cut so replacement are normally required at some point.

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Greg May 6, 2011 2:17 pm

I own two and I use them frequently. I must admit I do use your push stick, but when it comes togetting too close to the blade the gripper comes out.

I know you use it because I have seen it before … possibly in one of you podcasts.

Bruce does a great job demoing the product as well.

I must admit there have been products that disappointment me greatly, but this one has not to date.

As always great job. I have never known you to fabricate any pertient information and so I continue to take you at your word when it comes to quality product.

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MG May 6, 2011 5:16 pm

holy crap that is a lot of comments… who knew push sticks were so popular!

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Steven H May 6, 2011 5:33 pm

Marc,

I suggest you build a table in front of the table saw. Every time I see you use it, you always stop middle of the blade. I was taught always push the wood all the way through until it doesn’t touch the throat plate.

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- thewoodwhisperer May 6, 2011 5:40 pm
  
  Hey Steven. I don’t think I ever stop with the workpiece still touching the blade. Not sure where you saw me do that. Scratch that. I KNOW I never stop with the workpiece still in contact with the blade. But I am compensating for not having an outfeed table by holding the workpiece in place behind the blade until the blade stops. This is definitely not ideal.
  
  You might not know the history but I just moved into this shop space and I haven’t had a chance to construct a new outfeed table yet. But the show must go on and the outfeed table has to wait until I have time to actually make it.
  
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  - Matthew Hills May 6, 2011 10:20 pm
    
    Can you not reuse the old outfeed table?
    ( http://www.thewoodwhisperer.co.....eed-table/ )
    
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    - thewoodwhisperer May 7, 2011 8:04 am
      
      Both the outfeed table and the assembly table were given away to a friend when I moved into the other shop. I didn’t have room to use them or store them, so I figured it was best to give them away.
Jack Rasmussen May 6, 2011 6:30 pm

This looks like a great safety accessory. I recently purchased the Micro Jig splitter system to install in a self-made zero clearance insert on my old (1970s) Craftsman table saw. Love the saw, but I feel less safe with the factory blade guard and splitter installed than with it off, but have had some wood bind recently. Even though no kickback, I was holding on for dear life while searching for the Off switch. Needless to say, I just order a new hands-free switch for the saw to help with this too. Hopefully running a safer shop soon – thanks for all the tips on Safety Week.

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Shawn Nichols May 6, 2011 7:56 pm

I’ve been watching peeps use this for years and now it’s going on my wishlist – great video Marc. I’ve had a lot of success with this push block from Woodsmith. I know their show is kinda cheesy but they do have a treasure trove of videos and downloads.

Here is my last minute contribution to safety week – make this push block this weekend:

http://www.woodsmithshop.com/d.....hblock.pdf

-Shawn

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- Eric Casequin May 6, 2011 9:51 pm
  
  OOo, thanks for the tip Shawn, that is a great idea as well!
  
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- Dean May 7, 2011 9:36 am
  
  Woodsmith does have another push block they show how to make that is essentially this push block but with a handle on top. I would say this would be the minimum, but not as good or versatile as the grr-ripper. However, if the grr-ripper is not in the budget this would be a good, inexpensive solution to hold you over.
  
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Gerry Rovner May 7, 2011 5:09 pm

Marc,
Great video, and intro to the GRR-Ripper system. I’ve got two of them, the zero clearance bars, and the MJ splitter installed on 2 zero clearance inserts. I bought the first one a couple of years ago at the wwshow, and use them everywhere. I find them especially useful when resawing on the bandsaw, and controlling my work on the router table. GREAT TOOL!
My set lives in a drawer next to the table saw, such that it’s easily accessible.

I would recommend them to anyone.

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Lamar May 10, 2011 7:49 am

For those interested in one Peachtree Woodworking sent out a special on them today. $61.03 for the complete Ripper
http://www.ptreeusa.com/edirect_051011.htm

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Mike May 10, 2011 9:08 am

Marc,
Great video on the Micro-Jig. Your presentation pushed me over the top to purchase one. I went over to Woodcraft (where I used to work) and there was 1 left luckily, and I received the free handle upgrade package. One of my friends suggested using brown hardboard to make the sacrificial push tabs to save money buying plastic ones. I have used my gripper quite a bit and now when I start a project I try to figure the grippers job to help keep my safety level higher. Thanks again.

Mike

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Jay Hilgenberg/Drirot May 10, 2011 10:15 am

I bought one of the Grrripers last year after watching Marc’s video, and haven’t been disappointed yet. I recently purchased a second one this spring. I think it will be safer using 2 of them when cutting long board on the table saw. I haven’t tried them on my bandsaw or router yet, but can’t see why they wouldn’t be as useful there. I recommend getting the DVD, this shows the best way to use them, and has a great section on cutting veneer on a table saw. Just one note when cutting really thin pieces 1/8″ wide on a table saw, yes you can do this safely on a table saw using one of these. Just keep in mind that the 1/4″ hold down will become an 1/8″ hold down if you forget to change it. I just installed the splitters, but haven’t had the chance to try them out yet.

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Travis May 10, 2011 1:07 pm

Ive always hated the paddles that came with my jointer because they just slip like crazy, especially if there is a little saw dust on them. Ive really wanted to try some of these, looks like they would get a way better grip.

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Paul May 11, 2011 8:25 pm

Wife says she’s getting me the Grr-ripper for Fathers day. Will be a great addition to the new Jet table saw I’m planning on buying.

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Simon-Pierre May 12, 2011 7:51 pm

Hey Mark! nice video! Do you think that it’s a good idea to combine this with a feather board? will it come it the Grripper way?

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- thewoodwhisperer May 12, 2011 8:11 pm
  
  Depends on the operation. If you use the support leg, it would be impossible to use with a featherboard. But if you are just using it to push something without the support leg, you should be able to use a featherboard.
  
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John May 13, 2011 10:27 am

Hi Marc,
Ok, I’m convinced. Just ordered on amazon…
You should get commissions :)

-John

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- thewoodwhisperer May 13, 2011 10:30 am
  
  I do believe you are going to enjoy it my friend! Thanks for the affiliate purchase!
  
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Ed May 13, 2011 10:34 am

Marc, I have a Grr-Ripper that gathers dust because I don’t like exposing my wrist to the blade as I push the workpiece past it. It’s a distance of at most four inches, and using my blade guard and a push stick makes me feel MUCH safer.

In your video I see the same thing…as you push the walnut past the blade, there’s your wrist passing above the teeth at a close enough distance to strike fear in the hearts of mortal men (as well as the wives of aforementioned mortal men.)

Any comment? Reassurance?

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- thewoodwhisperer May 13, 2011 10:41 am
  
  Hey Ed. The only reassurance I can give you is to go with your gut. If doing it one way feels safer than another, let your gut be your guide. For me personally, its all about control. If I feel like I have complete control over the workpiece, I know the cut will go as planned. And in some cases, using certain push sticks with the blade guard actually gives me less control over the workpiece. But there are some operations where the guard and a conventional push shoe feels much safer to me. I will say for the vast majority of cuts, my blade guard is down and I’m using my hands or a push shoe. But when it comes to careful cuts and smaller workpieces, the GRR-Ripper is my go-to tool.
  
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Greg May 13, 2011 10:37 am

Cool. I’d been wondering how these worked.

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Michael P May 13, 2011 11:28 am

I got one a few months ago and have used it a lot, and loving it. This video showed me so many new uses for it.
I got the deluxe model and i was wondering all of those extra parts where, esp. the handle bridge thing. Now I know.

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Christopher Stahl May 13, 2011 12:35 pm

I’ve had two of the old GRR-Ripper models for 6 or 7 years and they are still my go-to pushblocks for everything. They are so versatile and they do give you that piece of mind because of the control. I just received my 3rd one today from Peachtree. Couldn’t pass up the $61 kit deal they had going the other day. Money well spent.

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Medfloat May 13, 2011 1:19 pm

Nice product, nice review. I have been using homemade pushsticks for a while and they work good for what I do, besides they store away easily. Thanks for the information.

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Keith Starosta May 13, 2011 4:02 pm

I’ve played with this thing a few different times over the years, but have been procrastinating on buying one. I think the time has definitely come! Thanks for the great video, Marc.

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Gary Hanson May 13, 2011 4:08 pm

After a tussle with my table saw (I lost) I purchased a Grr-Gripper with all the accessories. The Thin cut plate is very useful. My one complaint is that it is sometimes difficult to push the board. I found the keeping the table free of ALL dust and debris and keeping the table clean and waxed makes a huge difference.
This is a must if you are accident prone like me plus it just makes sense from a safety aspect. I still use push sticks but not often.

And Marc..as always a good review.

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Aaron T. May 13, 2011 4:45 pm

Got one of these for xmas and use it all the time, definitely one of the best safety devices I have seen out there and very well built.

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John Daugherty May 13, 2011 4:54 pm

I’ve had one for several years. It’s one of my most used tools in my shop. I use it on the tablesaw, jointer, bandsaw and router table. I need to pick up another one.

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paul May 13, 2011 6:18 pm

I can build a lot of push sticks and push pads for $70 and i can cut into them if i need to, if that makes it safer, i even have one with a support fence that cost me 50 cents to build but i do like the mj splitter

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Jim Batchelder May 13, 2011 8:00 pm

Great video. I love the Gripper, got one for christmas last year but never thought of using it for resawing. That is why you are the man Mark you always bring something new. Keep it up.

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Josh May 14, 2011 12:23 am

this looks really good, just may have to invest in one.

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John May 14, 2011 4:08 am

I’ve had a GRRRipper for a couple of months now. As mentioned, I find it most useful for cutting repeatable thin strips from stock without needing to bump the fence over for every cut (factoring in kerf).

It does feel…wrong…the first few times you pass your hand/wrist directly over the blade, but the management of the offcut is so good that I haven’t even seen the hint of kickback.

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Ross Ekberg May 14, 2011 6:06 am

After seeing this video I immediately went to microjig.com. They have some other spectacular products as well. I will definitely be purchasing one (or two) of the GRR-Rippers and the Splitter System – once I get the money together ;-).

Great video! Very informative!

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Josh McChesney May 14, 2011 3:17 pm

I appreciate this video. At the shop in which I work, we mostly use plywood cutouts as push sticks, but they are really only good for a limited number of uses.

These look like fantastic jigs.

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Hal May 14, 2011 4:51 pm

You know, I made a push stick a bit like the ones you sell in your store with the “hand saw” handle on it. To be honest with you I like it the best, versus any push stick I’ve made or used. The gripper looks like something that will greatly reduce injuries on the table saw

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Doug Massey May 14, 2011 4:57 pm

Looks good, but too costly for me. Murphy’s Law says I’ll cut my finger on the table saw tonight.

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Brian May 14, 2011 6:20 pm

It’s too expensive for me. A valuable product to be sure, but most things are out of my price range with my truck out of commission at the moment.

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Eric May 14, 2011 9:14 pm

I am brand new to wood working, in fact, i havent even started yet as i am still waiting to order my table saw and finish putting my router table together, but the Grr-Ripper looks like a definate must for me.

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Cowboy59 May 14, 2011 9:35 pm

My son and I use the gripper in our shop. It is our go to item for pushing stock through the saw and router. Absolutely love it. Provides for excellent control of stock.

P.S. Mark we noticed in your video you used the plastic tab on the back of your gripper for hooking on the wood. The manufacturer recommends that the plastic tab be used as template for making wood pieces. Why did you choose to use the plastic piece as is and risk chewing it up with cuts?

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- thewoodwhisperer May 15, 2011 8:46 am
  
  Well its just a small rectangle. Even if it gets chewed up its not hard to make a new one.
  
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David May 14, 2011 10:13 pm

This is the first time I’ve seen the GRR-Ripper in action. I didn’t understand the cost before but now I think I’m sold.

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Derek C May 14, 2011 11:20 pm

This is a cool item :) I’m going to need to pick myself up one… or two. That last part was great.

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Dave May 15, 2011 9:42 am

I just started using a table saw and the Grrripper and the splitter were my first “safety equipment” purchases. Great product.

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Brian V. May 15, 2011 11:38 am

Looks simple enough to build one out of scraps.

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Troy D May 15, 2011 3:44 pm

Saw these at a WW show this spring but I was not sure they were worth all that money.. based on the video and the above testimonials I will be picking some up next payday….
Thanks!

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Péo May 15, 2011 3:53 pm

I need one!

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wil May 15, 2011 3:54 pm

Thanks for the video! The GRR-Ripper is a great tool.

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bburen May 15, 2011 4:21 pm

Thanks for the video Marc, I have been contemplating getting one of these now i have one on order

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Tyler Reichelt May 15, 2011 11:53 pm

As an admitted klutz, I just picked up a pair of these @ the Woodcraft in Chandler. I know my accident-pronedness(aww yea, made up word) so I’m super careful around my tools. That said, I’m still looking forward to using these?

A Sawstop is also in my 4 month plan…I think my fingers are worth a couple grand.

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Oliman May 16, 2011 12:00 am

Thanks Marc for this video
Even if I always try to be cautious and take a minimum of risk when using my power machines, this grip looks clearly to be efficient and allows to be more precise and that I like it.
You have convinced me, I first will try to see if i can build one myself, if not I will buy one :)

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Robert May 16, 2011 1:09 am

I really love these, they have made many improvements over the years. Sounds like i need to get an upgraded unit.

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Ben Goracke May 16, 2011 5:43 am

Great review/howto on the the GRR-Ripper jig. It is going to a purchase in the near future.

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jersey mike May 17, 2011 7:27 am

I love my GRR-Rippers. Use them for the TS, router table, and jointer. I like the control you have on the wood on both sides of the blade after the cut. Just feels safer.

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Mike May 17, 2011 11:30 am

Thanks for this video Marc. I’ve been meaning to buy one of these for awhile, but kept putting it off. Your video made me finally pull the trigger!

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John May 17, 2011 3:00 pm

Up until this point, I viewed the Grrripper as kind of a novelty, but I can see the value in these for me, as a relative woodworking novice. Thanks for the video (and all of the videos)!

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MikeM May 17, 2011 7:42 pm

I had a plastic push stick that came in contact with the blade, and the stick shattered, leaving the work piece between the spinning balde and the fence uncontrolled, and pieces of plastic flying. While I have no doubt the gripper is everything it as advertised as, seeing that it is made out of plastic and metal, it makes me think back to that incident. Can anyone share if that has been an issue with the grr ripper, or does the blade cut through the plastic as it really should if the blade come in contact with it?

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- Brian V. May 18, 2011 5:15 am
  
  I couldn’t tell you if the grr-ripper would shatter, but the design is much better suited for pushing wood through the blade without the wood tilting or drifting causing damage to person or property. The simple bird’s mouth push stick is not recommended an any of the videos I’ve seen on any site. As a matter of fact that’s even covered in a video here 119 – Featherboards and Push Sticks. The gripper or even a 2×4 with a simple cleat to push through the blade work better, safer, and allow you to stay in control. The grr-ripper works best when you set it up (per the video here) and butt the device against the fence while pushing forward gives you so much more control that the plastic possibly shattering wouldn’t be an issue.
  
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- Bruce Wang May 22, 2011 7:08 pm
  
  Hi Mike,
  
  If you ever cut into the grr-ripper you won’t have to worry about shattering. the blade will simply score or cut right through the GR as if it was cutting the wood. just simply continue to cut as the grr-ripper will shield your hand. ive cut into mine hundreds of time. haha.
  
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Douglas Tapking May 18, 2011 8:14 am

Mark;

Nice review. I use these EVERY time I at the table saw or the band saw. I bought two when they were on sale at a wood show about 5 years ago. I love them. I use them on sheet goods, thin stock, long boards, etc. I have cut into them and replaced the pads once in the the last five years, not bad!

By the way, I do use most of the accessories, sometimes it takes a little longer to set up the Gripper, but, I still have all of my fingers!

Doug

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Lucky1406 May 18, 2011 9:28 am

I really need to get on our these. I wish they made them out of solid metal though.

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- Brian V. May 18, 2011 5:39 pm
  
  I hope you weren’t serious about being made of solid metal. A simple accident would be catastrophic if it were on a table saw.
  
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DHammer May 18, 2011 4:31 pm

SOLD me ordering mine from the link here.

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Josh May 18, 2011 10:23 pm

Thanks Mark, I often push the limits of how close I get my fingers to the blade. A good reminder of how easy it is to eliminate some of the risk is very much appreciated.

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Jason May 19, 2011 1:36 pm

I loved the review. It will have a special place in my heart because with it I have finally caught up on all the WW videos.

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Josh May 19, 2011 10:56 pm

Ok, I just received the two I bought after watching this video. I know this was a blatantly obvious promotional video, but I don’t really care. I’ve seen Marc use these in previous videos so he’s obviously a fan, and I have had many a time when I wished I had one to make a thin cut safer. Now I have seen I can use them on my jointer and router table too!

Now I have 2, because Marc said so. :)

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Brad Lokken May 20, 2011 1:04 pm

I have to get me one of these! That seem like they would work great and be safe!

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Mariusz May 20, 2011 4:19 pm

Recently I just skimmed my finger for about 1/32. Sure I was watching all safety videos still I was in a hurry and then in a shock and then in a bit of unplanned pain.
Planning to keep all my fingers I give a “Like” to this one!

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chuck May 23, 2011 6:08 pm

just got 2 thanks for the info

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Joshua Davidson May 24, 2011 10:01 am

Safety first, right? Something like the GRR-Ripper will make my wife happy, which means more time for me in the shop. Awesome. A wise investment, indeed.

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Chad – Tx May 25, 2011 10:25 am

My Father’s Day GRR-Ripper got ordered ‘secretely’ by my wife last week. Of course I told my mother she needed let my wife know that’s what I wanted! Thanks for the advice, my friend.

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Swed May 25, 2011 3:19 pm

I must have this…..problem for me is to find a place to buy them in Sweden.

//Magnus

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John May 26, 2011 9:40 am

The safety here is well worth the small investment…. The video has me sold.

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Dr Dave June 1, 2011 10:44 am

Just curious Marc, i have the gripper, but I never felt that comfortable passing my hand over the blade.
Do you feel that the pushblock is a good replacement for the Brett guard or actually all blade guards?

I love it on the router table, never used it with the bandsaw.

Cheers
Dave

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- thewoodwhisperer June 1, 2011 10:50 am
  
  My Brett guard isn’t going anywhere. Remember, there is no single push stick solution that makes things safer for all cuts. Its important to really think about each cut and decide what the safest course of action is. So I really don’t use the GRR-Ripper on every cut. But on certain cuts, it makes the job incredibly safe. But if you can keep the workpiece secure in conjunction with your blade guard, that’s perfectly fine too. So for me, the GRR-Ripper is a nice addition to a whole series of safety devices that allow me to make the safest cut in each particular situation.
  
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Dave M. June 4, 2011 4:32 pm

I have and use two of these all the time. It does take a little getting used to because your directly over the blade on cuts but man I cant imagine being without these anymore!

Keep up your great videos Marc……makes me wish I was not at work and in my garage.

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Trevor Kernes June 4, 2011 4:47 pm

I bought an older, but brand new GRR-Ripper on ebay for $50. The guy said he bought two in the 90s and only ever opened 1 of them. I just noticed it is a GR-200, instead of the -100. So . . . if anyone knows . . . what did I buy? Is it the same? Anitiquated/obsolete? Etc.?

I know that companies change designs, especially when a safety flaw is discovered. I just want to be sure that I am getting a decent (usable) item.

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- Bruce Wang June 13, 2011 8:22 am
  
  Hey Trevor,
  
  You should be ok. The 100 is the basic model and the 200 is the advanced model and they are both pretty much the exact same design from the beginning. So you don’t have to worry about an obsolete version or defected version. Enjoy!
  
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Alvin VanBumble June 5, 2011 3:46 pm

I have been eying these neat push sticks. After seeing your demo I really would like to pick up a couple of grippers. How do they work with a blade guard?

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Selwyn Adelson June 10, 2011 3:54 am

Its a great product and makes an important contribution to workshop safety, I’m a bit surprised at you though Mark especially in safety week. When using the machinery I saw no sign of dust or hearing protection!!

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- thewoodwhisperer June 10, 2011 7:32 am
  
  Just because its out of the field of vision of the camera, doesn’t mean it isn’t there Selwyn.
  
  Just so you know, I wear safety glasses and hearing protection on every cut with every tool. And while I try to wear my respirator as much as possible, there are times during filming when I do not use it purely out of convenience. But I also have a 5HP dust collector helping me keep most of the dust under control.
  
  So no need to be disappointed. You just couldn’t see it.
  
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Mike G June 18, 2011 1:36 pm

This is on my ‘to buy’ list.

I thought about making one similar out of wood, but I think that this one will work much better.

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Bryan V June 28, 2011 3:12 pm

Awe, i missed the giveaway, However i love the idea of this tool, it sure would have helped me when i needed something like this.

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Jeremy Lezniak July 15, 2011 7:34 am

I saw one of these a few days ago… I should give them a try.

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Dennis July 15, 2011 6:19 pm

I have two of the Grippers and consider them my go to push block. Well worth the money and yes they are really that good.

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Chuck O’Buckley August 22, 2011 5:21 am

I wish I was in time to enter but I’m a lot to late.

I would love to have a Gripper!

I’m new to woodworking this year and have experienced kickback. It’s not a real pleasant thing. Fortunately I still have all my fingers, and I can tell everyone, when a board comes flying back at the speed of sound and hits you in the ribs, it hurts like heck.
One thing I can say after watching your demonstration, with the Gripper I would still be wondering what kickback is all about.

Good video Mark, keep it up.

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Carol Johnston January 2, 2012 8:44 am

I purchased two Grippers and 2 Microjig splitters a couple of years ago. Maybe it was just me, but I was spending way too much time adjusting the Grippers. Working with long pieces of wood was awkward and cumbersome. The splitters didn’t work at all with a hard maple project I was working on. They pulled out everytime I tried to rip a board. I called the President of the company, and he graciously let me return the items. I think that for people working on small projects and short boards, the Grippers might work ok. As for the splitters, they just didn’t work for me, and I ended up having splitters made for my Delta Unisaw by LeeWay Workshop. They work beautifully and mount into the Biesemeyer bracket I have mounted to my saw. (The Biesemeyer splitter was bent and a new one cost way too much)

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Dan Roscigno January 4, 2012 6:28 pm

Thanks for this video. I am going to be making a bunch of thin strip cuts to make some door mats. Grippers look essential.

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Jim Maloy April 15, 2012 12:58 pm

I just got a Gripper and it looks good, but it could use some kind of adjustable hook that would go over the saw fence and keep the fixture there without having to push it toward the fence when it’s in use.

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Chris Royer December 10, 2012 7:45 pm

Got this piece after watching this video. Very nice for those thin rips. Got the thin foot as well as a promotion at WoodCraft and I find myself using it quite a bit. Thanks for the vid!
Chris

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Duncan del Toro December 16, 2012 8:34 pm

Picked up this the other day after watching these vids. So far I think its pretty awesome. I know I could probably make a push “stick” similar but the price wasn’t really that extravagant. Already making simple attachments to give it all the functionality that the more expensive options bring. Can’t wait to try it out for making those super thin strips.

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Joe Johnston March 27, 2013 8:28 am

i just watch your video about the gripper. I happend across your web site yesturday looking at some other wood working items. So far i love your posts and how you make them. I just built a new wood shop and bought a new table saw and band saw. I tend to get my fingers way to close to the blades so this item looks like a great idea. I’m going to their web site and take a closer look at it. I think if i start usung it with the new saws and get in the habbit of it i just might keep all my digits for a long time.

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Reed Chauffe May 3, 2013 10:27 am

After watch the video on the many ways the Micro Jig GRR-Ripper Basic 3D Push Block System works, the uses of ways to use this system in my shop are beginning to be countless. I make a lot of cabinet work and cutting thin edge banding which I have not found a safe way to make this type of cut on the table saw up to 1 1/2 inch thick stock. Using the GRR-Ripper would solve that problem with very safe results up to 1/8 inch thin strips.

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Stan Rutledge May 3, 2013 10:00 pm

Did you mean Mon the 6th of May?
I have a setup in a small garage. For my safety I make sure all power cords are not underfoot, I have a clear run when ripping plywood, safety glasses, and if I am wearing long sleeves I roll them up. I have seen a kid run his hand into a band saw blade. He was high (it was the 70’s). I have that image in my head still. So safety is number one!

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Patrick Foss June 13, 2014 10:55 am

I don’t know if you’ll see this (I am working through your videos and you filmed this one years ago.)
I am returning to woodworking after 30 years and am in the process of setting up a shop.
My question is: Is this tool really better than a push pad with a piece of sacrificial wood (with a lip).
I would think that being able to just push the piece through without adjusting anything would be much quicker.
Am I missing something?

Thanks and awesome videos!

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- Marc Spagnuolo June 13, 2014 11:06 am
  
  It’s very similar to what you describe, only the goal is to avoid cutting into. So if you’re comfortable with the blade making contact with the push stick, it would indeed be a very similar concept.
  
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Warren Downes July 5, 2014 6:46 am

Hi all
Just I heads up if you have had trouble buying the microjig grr ripper in Australia we have taken over distribution http://www.onewood.com.au

Cheers
Warren

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Antoinette January 15, 2018 5:50 am

In all seriousness guys, I recently (a week ago) cut off half of my finger on my table saw whilst doing a dado cut when the wood climbed the blade – 9 stitches later and lots of pain and a scar that will always remind me – I am now terrified of my table saw, and have tried unsuccessfully to use it in the last few days, every time I just stop because I can’t handle thinking what could have happened as half my hand could have been gone. I just saw this and realised how much confidence this product will bring back to my woodworking life . . . as making cuts on small stock is my normal routine. Mine is already ordered, and I hope to be able to successfully make my first attempt at using my table saw again.

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