After Pottzy’s review of the MICROJIG GRR-RIP BLOCK(spelt here with the non-WOKE capitalism),it’d be remiss of me not to mention their other spearhead in the push block genre.
It comes in two models, the GR-100 and the GR-200.
While the BLOCK is basically a single solid piece (with lift up tabs), the RIPPER is a customisable piece of kit. I’m not going through all its customisations other than elucidate that it comes with a number of different sized interchangeable “feet”,
an “out-rigger”, they call Balance Support, on the GR-100 and GR-200 models,
to balance out the load.
The GR-200 has the following extra attachments 2 main attachments.
1. A Stabilising Plate,
2.Adjustable Spacer,
No idea what they’re used for as I’ve never used mine… you interested?... RTFM!
This diagram gives an idea of its components/configuration,
However, a browse of the manual will give a better indication. Furthermore, the manual presents the RIPPER in configuration many would never think of and probably could be used on their own customised jigs/push-sticks/blocks.
Do yourself a favour and go and browse it.
As mentioned, it comes with interchangeable feet which comes in handy for all those alignment parallax errors,
or just simple absent mindedness, that result in,
potentially requiring readily available replacements from supplier (or personal stockpile),
It comes packaged with an attachable hook,
However, if you so choose to use it, may I suggest you swap it out with a wooden one,
unless you like the smell of burnt/molten plastic,
Personally I don’t recommend them for narrow stock, as it requires the use of the “out-rigger” which needs to be adjusted for thickness and suggest sticking to the stick (push), but for wider stock where it can straddle the blade,
it’s a tad safer from injury than the solid BLOCK,
The ripper also sports an adjustable angled handle,
which is designed to guide the stock towards the fence, or if you’re a thrill-seeker and like to play with fire, adjust in the opposite to encourage kickback.
Thanks for looking…
Don’t be crafty Craftisians,... SHARE your craft!
If your first cut is too short... Take the second cut from the longer end... LBD
I have (and really like) the 100. Didn't come with the hook which is on my list for adding. I really like the outrigger (for thin stock) as it lest me use the block for what it does best and keeps it flat on the stock. Not a fan of the time involved in swapping sides when I need the thin/thick foot. Didn't know that the handle could be angled, have to try that out since my main "love" of the thing is being able to keep stock tight to the fence with some side pressure.
I do have some skinned feet from mis-adjstments and a few cuts into the body from not playing attention to the blade height (non fatal thankfully), but these scars tell me that I use this versus keeping it pristine in some drawer, unused.
Check out page 18 of the manual (link above)... mentions a gravity hook (part number GRGH-040)... should be relatively easily made... or $17 if you are lazy.
As for swapping sides, depends on how you configure... could be a simple case of flipping 540°... and that'll give your wrist exercise. Alternatively wait for a day or two for my next review... currentlty being drafted after a few zzzzs.... 1:15am here.
If your first cut is too short... Take the second cut from the longer end... LBD
I do the 540 flip when possible, but typically the immovable narrow (1/4"?) side is needed. Also like to mention that I really like the green stuff, stays "sticky" much longer between cleanings that the typical black foam used on the cheap push blocks.
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