Thanks for the kudos folks!
FWIW, I added that extra lower round-over piece on the push handle to essentially act like, or in place of, a blade guard per say . I know that as long as my thumb rides on/touching that extra round-over while using/gripping the sled, that it is in a safe location away from the blade. That extra piece physically reminds me of this and I find that reassuring.
HorizontalMike