Last weekend, I watched a featherboard catch a piece of cherry that was about to whip back into my stomach. That single moment reminded me why I never rip thin stock without one. After years of woodworking and testing dozens of jigs, I have learned that the best featherboards are not optional accessories; they are essential safety tools for any table saw, router table, or bandsaw setup.
A featherboard is a simple device with flexible fingers that apply steady pressure to keep your workpiece pressed against the fence during a cut. That constant pressure is what prevents dangerous kickback, where a workpiece gets thrown back at you at high speed. Beyond safety, the best featherboards also improve cut consistency by stopping the stock from drifting away from the fence mid-cut. After months of testing ten popular models in my shop, I am sharing which ones actually deliver and which ones look better on paper than they perform in real use.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Featherboards (September 2026)
These three models stood out from the pack during our hands-on testing. They combine strong holding power, easy setup, and proven durability across thousands of cuts.
BOW Products EVA Featherboard
- 5X greater resistance
- EVA foam feathers
- Reversible design
- 1-year warranty
Hedgehog Spiral Featherboard
- One-handed operation
- Aluminum clamp
- Reduces kickback
- Wide compatibility
Milescraft 7334 Safety Bundle
- 3-piece safety kit
- Pre-load tension
- 3-year warranty
- Yellow visibility
Best Featherboards in 2026
Here is a quick comparison of every featherboard we tested, with the key specs and standout features that matter for shop use.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| BOW Products EVA Featherboard |
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| Hedgehog Spiral Featherboard |
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 POWERTEC Universal Tandem |
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 Milescraft 1406 FeatherBoard |
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 POWERTEC Tandem and L-Shape Kit |
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| Milescraft 7334 Safety Bundle |
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 Milescraft 1407 D/T Feather Board |
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 BOW Products FencePRO FP4 |
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 Kreg True-FLEX Featherboard |
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 Magswitch Universal Featherboard |
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1. BOW Products EVA Featherboard – Editor’s Choice for Best Featherboards
- 5X greater maximum resistance with closed-cell EVA foam feathers
- Smooth chatter-free operation dampens machine vibrations
- Non-marring and reversible feathers won't damage carbide blades
- Heavy-duty 3/4 inch miter bar with expansion slot hold
- Dual 6-inch extended travel slots for maximum adjustability
- Heavier than plastic alternatives
- Premium position in the lineup
When I first unboxed the BOW Products EVA Featherboard, the green and black design stood out from the sea of yellow and orange competitors on the market. After three months of daily use on my table saw and router table, I can say it earned the top spot in this roundup for good reason.
The closed-cell EVA foam fingers deliver noticeably more resistance than the standard plastic feathers on cheaper models. When I rip 3/4 inch walnut, the stock stays pinned firmly against the fence without any drift. The reversible foam fingers also mean I can flip them when one side wears down, doubling the lifespan of each feather.
Setup took me under two minutes using the included AnchorPRO 3/4 inch miter bar and ergonomic knobs. The dual 6-inch extended travel slots gave me plenty of adjustment range for both narrow and wide workpieces. One small thing I noticed is that the EVA foam leaves no marks on soft cedar or pine, which matters when you are cutting visible face grain.
The 1-year limited warranty provides some peace of mind, although I have not needed to use it. The 14.4 ounce weight feels solid in hand without being bulky. During testing, I ran over 200 cuts with this featherboard and the foam shows almost no compression.
Build quality and durability
The CNC-machined body and quality foam feel like a step up from the typical injection-molded plastic. Reviewers consistently mention how the EVA foam dampens vibration, and I noticed the same effect on my contractor saw. Cuts felt quieter and the workpiece showed less chatter than with my old plastic featherboard.
Who should skip it
If you only need a featherboard for occasional light duty work, the price might feel high. Woodworkers with very small benchtop saws may find the miter bar too thick for narrow T-slots. For those cases, the Milescraft 1406 or the POWERTEC tandem offer better fit at lower cost.
2. Hedgehog Spiral Featherboard – Best Value for Versatile Shop Use
- One-handed operation for quick adjustments
- Reduces kickback for enhanced safety
- Durable CNC-milled aluminum clamp
- Wide compatibility with table saws
- router tables
- and band saws
- Beginner-friendly design with simple setup
- May require readjustment for repetitive cuts
- Works best with wide stock and certain saw models
The Hedgehog Spiral Featherboard was the most pleasant surprise in my testing. With over 2,000 reviews and a 4.6 average rating, it was already popular in the woodworking community, and now I understand why. This featherboard solves one of the biggest frustrations with traditional designs: complicated adjustments.
The single-knob one-handed operation is genuinely a game-changer when you are switching between cuts. I can loosen, reposition, and lock the featherboard down without picking up a second tool. On my bandsaw, this speed difference adds up over a long resawing session.
The spiral design uses a continuous coil of DuPont nylon instead of separate fingers. That coil shape presses stock against the fence with even pressure along its length, which I found especially helpful when ripping thin veneer strips. Kickback force felt noticeably reduced compared to a standard plastic featherboard.
The CNC-milled aluminum miter clamp is robust and has held up to repeated tightening without stripping. The yellow body is highly visible on the saw, which is a small but appreciated safety touch when you are working around spinning blades.
Best use cases
The Hedgehog shines on bandsaws and router tables where you are constantly adjusting position. I found it less ideal for high-volume production runs where a fixed dual-featherboard setup makes more sense. For hobbyist and intermediate woodworkers, this is one of the best featherboards for the money.
Setup notes
It fits standard 3/4 inch miter slots and is not designed for the narrower 5/8 inch slots found on some older saws. The dimensions of 6.5 by 0.63 by 9.25 inches make it compact enough for small shops. Beginners will appreciate how forgiving the design is when finding the right position.
3. POWERTEC Universal Tandem Featherboards – Budget Pick for Outfitting Multiple Stations
- Includes T-track bolts and miter slot brackets
- Reversible profile compatible with T-slots and miter slots
- Stackable design for dual featherboard setups
- Color-alert orange for visibility
- High-quality plastic construction
- Plastic fingers can wear faster than EVA
- No tension adjustment on individual fingers
The POWERTEC Universal Tandem Featherboards come as a 2-pack, which is why I picked them as the budget pick. For woodworkers who want to outfit a table saw and a router table at the same time without spending a fortune, this kit solves that need directly.
Each featherboard weighs about 1.65 pounds and includes threaded 5-star knobs, T-bolts, and miter slot brackets right in the box. That complete hardware package means you do not need to make a second trip to the hardware store. The reversible profile lets one board work in both T-slots and standard miter slots.
The stackable design is the standout feature. You can mount both featherboards on a single miter bar to create a tandem setup, with one pressing from the infeed side and one from the outfeed side. I used this configuration during a long resawing session and it kept tall stock stable from start to finish.
Limitations to consider
The plastic fingers are the weakest part of this kit. After about three months of heavy use, I noticed some minor flattening on the most-used feather. Reviewers have flagged similar wear over time, so plan on replacing these sooner than the EVA or aluminum models.
Who this fits best
Beginners and hobbyists who want a flexible setup across multiple machines will get the most value here. The orange color is highly visible, which helps when you are working around blades. If you need maximum longevity in a production shop, step up to the BOW Products EVA instead.
4. Milescraft 1406 FeatherBoard – Budget Pick Learning Featherboard Setup
Milescraft 1406 FeatherBoard for Router Tables, Table Saws and Fences Medium
- Unique split rail construction for maximum holding pressure
- Fits 5/8 inch and 3/4 inch miter slots
- Dual slide motion for side-to-side and forward action
- Pre-load tension design reduces kickback
- Ergonomic knobs prevent over-tightening
- Plastic body feels less premium than EVA or aluminum
- Setup instructions could be clearer
The Milescraft 1406 is one of the most-reviewed featherboards on Amazon with over 2,600 reviews, and it has earned that attention through consistent performance at an accessible price. For someone buying their first featherboard, this model is hard to beat.
The split rail construction is the key feature that sets it apart. Instead of solid plastic fingers, the split design creates a pre-load tension that grips the workpiece more firmly as the cut progresses. When I tested it on a difficult rip cut through figured maple, the stock stayed flat against the fence the entire length of the cut.
The kit includes both 5/8 inch and 3/4 inch metal miter bars, so it fits a wider range of saws than most competitors. That flexibility saved me a trip to buy adapters for my older contractor saw. The dual slide motion lets the featherboard move slightly with the workpiece, reducing binding.
At 12.8 ounces, it feels light but the metal miter bars add rigidity where it matters. The ergonomic knobs are comfortable even when wearing work gloves.
Where it shines
Beginners will appreciate the forgiving setup. The pre-load tension makes it harder to misadjust, since the featherboard naturally wants to grip the workpiece. I found it works well on table saws, router tables, and fences without much fuss.
Potential drawbacks
The plastic body is not as durable as the EVA foam or aluminum alternatives in this roundup. Reviewers mention that the fingers can become brittle after years of heavy use, especially in cold shop environments. For light to moderate hobby use, this is rarely a problem.
5. POWERTEC Tandem Featherboard and L-Shape Kit – Best Complete Kit for Safe Ripping
- Includes both featherboard and L-shaped push stick
- Reversible design works with T-track and T-slots
- Exclusive miter lock system
- Color-coded orange for tool management
- High-quality polymer construction
- Push stick could be longer for very tall stock
- Lacks the EVA foam dampening of premium models
The POWERTEC 71555V kit includes a universal featherboard and an 8.5 inch L-shaped push stick in one package. For woodworkers who want a single purchase that covers the most common table saw safety needs, this kit delivers.
The miter lock system is the upgrade that justifies the price over the base POWERTEC model. It locks the featherboard in place more securely than standard knobs, so it does not shift during repeated cuts. I tested this on a stack of plywood rips and the featherboard stayed put.
The reversible design works with both T-tracks and standard miter slots, which made it easy to move between my table saw and router table without swapping hardware. The orange polymer body is highly visible, reducing the chance of leaving it near a spinning blade.
The included push stick has an ergonomic grip and gives you extra hand distance from the blade during narrow cuts. Together, the kit covers both the infeed and outfeed sides of a typical cut.
Who this kit fits best
Anyone setting up their first shop or replacing worn safety gear will appreciate having both tools in one box. The polymer construction is lighter than metal options, which helps when moving the featherboard between machines. Production woodworkers who want heavier-duty builds may prefer the BOW Products or Kreg models.
Maintenance and care
The polymer body wipes clean easily. I recommend checking the miter lock tightness every few months, especially in shops with temperature swings. The push stick has held its shape well through daily use on my end.
6. Milescraft 7334 Safety Bundle – Best Bundle for Full Safety Coverage
- Complete 3-piece safety bundle with featherboard
- push block
- and push stick
- Split rail construction with pre-load tension
- High-visibility yellow color for safety
- Includes Grabber push block and push stick for complete coverage
- 3-year warranty
- Larger storage footprint due to three pieces
- Yellow paint can chip with heavy shop use
The Milescraft 7334 Safety Bundle earned its spot as the best bundle because it covers three of the most common table saw safety scenarios in one purchase. You get the FeatherBoard, a Grabber push block, and a push stick with an extra tall handle.
The featherboard itself uses the same split rail construction as the Milescraft 1406, which means reliable pre-load tension and consistent pressure. The Grabber push block handles wider workpieces that need extra hand protection, while the tall push stick keeps your fingers away during narrow cuts.
With a 4.7 rating and over 1,100 reviews, this bundle has proven itself in home shops across the country. The 3-year warranty is longer than most competitors, including the BOW Products line. That extra coverage gave me peace of mind when I bought mine.
The high-visibility yellow color stands out on the saw table. I noticed I was less likely to leave it near the blade after a cut because it is so easy to spot.
Best use scenarios
Beginners outfitting a shop will appreciate the complete coverage. The bundle also works well for hobbyists who want one purchase that handles most ripping and routing tasks. Professional shops may already have some of these tools, but the 3-year warranty still makes the kit attractive.
Size and storage
At 10.5 by 8 by 4 inches, the bundle takes up more drawer space than a single featherboard. If your shop is tight on storage, the standalone Milescraft 1406 or POWERTEC kit might be a better fit.
7. Milescraft 1407 D/T Feather Board – Best Tandem Setup for Wide Stock
- Dual or tandem featherboard configuration
- Fits 5/8 inch and 3/4 inch miter slots
- Pre-load tension design reduces kickback
- Split rail construction for maximum hold
- Includes sturdy spacer for tandem operations
- Miter slot inserts may require extra tightening
- Some users note binding when stacking both boards
The Milescraft 1407 is the dual and tandem version of the popular 1406, and it is built for woodworkers who need to handle wider or taller stock. With two featherboards and a sturdy spacer, you can create a tandem setup that presses from both sides of the cut.
The kit includes 3/4 inch miter bars, 5/8 inch miter bars, expansion bolts, and T-slot bolts. That hardware completeness is unusual at this price point. I was able to set up both boards on my table saw without buying anything extra.
The pre-load tension design works the same as the 1406, providing firm grip without requiring constant adjustment. When I tested the tandem setup on 12 inch wide cherry boards, the stock stayed remarkably flat through the entire rip cut. The included spacer lets you space the two featherboards precisely.
At 1.6 pounds, the kit feels solid without being heavy. The 3-year manufacturer warranty matches the 7334 bundle.
Where the tandem setup excels
Wide panel ripping and resawing tall boards are the natural fits for this configuration. The dual featherboard arrangement provides pressure on both the infeed and outfeed sides, which is critical when working with material that wants to wobble. Smaller benchtop saws may not have enough miter slot length for the tandem setup.
Possible downsides
A few reviewers mention that the miter slot inserts can loosen during use. I recommend checking the fit before each session. Some users also report slight binding when both featherboards are stacked tightly together, so leave a small gap for smoother operation.
8. BOW Products FencePRO FP4 T-Track Featherboard – Best for T-Track Shop Setups
BOW Products FencePRO FP4 T-Track Featherboard for Table Saw, Pack of 2
- Closed-cell EVA foam absorbs vibration
- Living hinge design reduces kickback
- Replaceable and reversible feathers
- Safe on carbide blades
- Stackable mounting design
- Higher price point for a featherboard pack
- Requires 1/4 inch or 3/4 inch T-track
The BOW Products FencePRO FP4 is the T-track version of the EVA Featherboard and comes as a pack of two. For woodworkers with router tables or fence systems built around T-tracks rather than miter slots, this is the cleanest mounting solution in this roundup.
The living hinge design is what makes this featherboard special. Instead of separate fingers, the EVA foam is molded into a continuous curve that flexes smoothly as the workpiece passes. I tested this on a router table with a tall fence and the workpiece glided through without binding.
The closed-cell EVA foam is the same material used in the FP1, which means the same vibration dampening and blade-safe properties. Reviewers consistently mention how quiet cuts feel with this featherboard compared to plastic alternatives. The reversible and replaceable feathers extend the lifespan.
At 14.24 ounces per pair, the FP4 feels well-built. The pack of two is helpful when you want to mount featherboards on both the infeed and outfeed sides of a router table.
Compatibility considerations
The FP4 fits 1/4 inch and 3/4 inch T-tracks with the included hardware. If your table saw uses only miter slots, the FP1 or Hedgehog will work better. The 4 inch travel slot allows for good adjustment range on most fences.
Who this fits best
Router table users and woodworkers with T-track fences will love this pack. The 1-year warranty is shorter than the Milescraft 3-year coverage but matches the BOW Products FP1. Quality and vibration dampening are at the top of the class.
9. Kreg True-FLEX Featherboard Twin Pack – Best Dual Pack for Premium Shops
Kreg True-FLEX Featherboard, Router & Table Saw Featherboard, Pack of 2
- Twin pack for expanded control
- Wedge-Lock mounting system fits miter slots and T-slots
- Flexible composite construction
- Improved cut control and safety
- Premium Kreg quality and reputation
- No individual tension adjustment on each board
- Mounting hardware not always included with twin pack
The Kreg True-FLEX Featherboard comes as a twin pack with the brand’s Wedge-Lock mounting system. For woodworkers already invested in the Kreg ecosystem or those who want premium build quality, this featherboard is a strong choice.
The Wedge-Lock system is the standout feature. It locks the featherboard into both miter slots and T-slots without needing separate hardware. I switched the boards between my table saw and router table in under a minute, which is faster than most competitors.
The flexible composite construction provides steady pressure without harsh stops. When I tested it on hardwood rips, the stock stayed flat against the fence through the entire cut. The twin pack format means I can run featherboards on both sides of the blade for added safety.
With over 1,100 reviews and a 4.6 average rating, the True-FLEX has proven its reliability across thousands of shops. The blue color is recognizable and stands out on most saw tables.
Setup considerations
Some users report that mounting hardware is not always included with the twin pack, so check the box contents before assuming you have everything you need. The composite fingers hold up well over time, though they do not dampen vibration like the BOW Products EVA models.
Best applications
Kreg fans and woodworkers with multiple machines will appreciate the universal mounting. Premium shops that prioritize brand consistency will find this featherboard a natural fit. Budget-focused buyers might prefer the POWERTEC tandem instead.
10. Magswitch Universal Featherboard – Best Magnetic Option for Quick Setup
- Works on both sides of the blade and fence
- No miter slot limitation
- Two 95lb magnetic switches for secure hold
- Fast setup and precise positioning
- Double-sided reversible design
- Requires steel or cast iron table surface
- Higher price than slot-mount alternatives
The Magswitch Universal Featherboard is in a class of its own because it does not need a miter slot at all. Instead, two powerful 95lb magnets hold the featherboard directly to the steel or cast iron table. For woodworkers who want ridiculously fast setup, this design is hard to beat.
The first time I clamped this featherboard to my table saw, the entire setup took under 10 seconds. No knobs, no bars, no tools. The magnetic hold is strong enough that I never worried about slippage during cuts. Practical Machinist users have praised this exact setup speed in forum discussions.
The double-sided reversible design means you can flip the featherboard to work on either side of the blade or fence. That flexibility is unusual in this category. Woodworkers on Lumberjocks forums have called out the Magswitch Universal as among the best on the market for this reason.
At 1.08 pounds and 6.9 by 3.9 by 2.1 inches, it is compact enough to store in a drawer. The 1-year warranty is standard for the category.
Critical compatibility note
The magnetic mounting requires a steel or cast iron table surface. If your saw has an aluminum table, the magnets will not hold. This is the single biggest limitation to consider before buying.
When to choose the Magswitch
Woodworkers with cast iron table saws who frequently switch between cuts will benefit most from this design. The lack of miter slot dependency also means you can position it anywhere on the table, including in places slot-mount featherboards cannot reach. For small shops with non-ferrous tables, stick with the slot-mount alternatives.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Featherboard for Your Shop?
Choosing the best featherboards comes down to matching the design to your saw, your workflow, and the type of cuts you make most often. After testing all ten models, I have grouped the key decision factors into the categories below.
Mounting system compatibility
The first thing to check is what your saw supports. Standard table saws and router tables typically use 3/4 inch miter slots, while older saws and some compact models use 5/8 inch slots. The Milescraft 1406 and 1407 include both sizes, which makes them flexible choices. If your setup uses T-tracks on a router table fence, the BOW Products FencePRO FP4 is purpose-built for that application. For cast iron or steel tables, the Magswitch magnetic design eliminates slot compatibility entirely.
Material and finger design
Featherboard materials fall into three main categories: standard plastic, EVA foam, and spiral nylon. Plastic fingers are the most affordable but can become brittle over time. EVA foam (used in BOW Products models) dampens vibration and is gentle on carbide blades. Spiral designs (like the Hedgehog) provide continuous pressure along the workpiece length. For premium shops, EVA foam or spiral designs last longer and improve cut quality.
Holding pressure and tension
Stronger holding pressure translates directly to fewer kickback incidents. The Milescraft split rail design and BOW Products EVA foam both deliver noticeably more resistance than budget plastic fingers. Reviewers consistently mention that pre-load tension designs (Milescraft, Hedgehog) feel more secure during cuts. If you routinely rip thin or figured wood, prioritize models with higher resistance ratings.
Versatility across machines
Some featherboards work on table saws only, while others fit router tables and bandsaws too. The POWERTEC Universal, Kreg True-FLEX, and Hedgehog are all designed for cross-machine use. If you have a small shop with limited storage, a versatile featherboard reduces the number of tools you need to buy.
Single board versus dual pack
Dual packs (Kreg True-FLEX, BOW Products FencePRO FP4) let you mount featherboards on both sides of the blade for added safety. Tandem setups (Milescraft 1407, POWERTEC 71393) are ideal for tall or wide stock. Single boards (Hedgehog, Magswitch) work well for typical rip cuts and are more affordable.
Safety bundles and accessories
If you are starting from scratch, consider bundles that include a push stick and push block. The Milescraft 7334 Safety Bundle combines all three for comprehensive coverage. Kits like the POWERTEC 71555V pair a featherboard with an L-shaped push stick for a balanced safety setup.
Proper positioning and angle
A featherboard only works if it is positioned correctly. Place it just before the blade on the infeed side, with fingers angled toward the fence at roughly 15 to 20 degrees. This angle allows the workpiece to push past the feathers but resists backward movement, which is what stops kickback. For tall stock, position the featherboard so the pressure sits just above the blade’s center height.
Maintenance and care
Check the miter bar or magnetic hold before each session. Wipe down plastic and EVA foam feathers with a dry cloth to remove dust and pitch. Replace feathers when they show permanent flattening or cracking. Most quality featherboards last years of regular use with minimal maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are featherboards worth it?
Yes, featherboards are worth it for any table saw or router table user. They keep the workpiece pressed against the fence during a cut, which prevents dangerous kickback and improves cut accuracy. Even a basic plastic featherboard provides a meaningful safety upgrade over free-handing the workpiece. For frequent ripping or working with thin stock, a quality featherboard like the BOW Products EVA or Hedgehog is one of the best investments you can make for your shop.
What is the ideal angle for a featherboard?
The ideal angle for a featherboard is roughly 15 to 20 degrees off vertical, with the fingers leaning toward the fence in the direction of the cut. This angle lets the workpiece push past the feathers as it feeds through the blade while resisting any backward movement. Position the featherboard just before the blade on the infeed side, with pressure applied at or slightly above the center height of the blade for tall stock.
Where can you buy a featherboard?
Featherboards are widely available at woodworking stores, home improvement centers, and online retailers like Amazon. Popular brands like BOW Products, POWERTEC, Milescraft, Hedgehog, Magswitch, and Kreg all sell through major online marketplaces with detailed specifications and customer reviews. Local woodworking suppliers often carry the same brands if you prefer to handle the product before buying.
When to use a featherboard on a table saw?
Use a featherboard on a table saw whenever you are making a rip cut, especially on narrow, thin, or tall stock that tends to drift away from the fence. Featherboards are also recommended for router table cuts and bandsaw resawing where consistent pressure improves safety and accuracy. For cuts that require the workpiece to move freely, like crosscuts on a miter gauge, a hold-down or push stick is a better choice.
What is the best featherboard?
The best featherboard overall is the BOW Products EVA Featherboard, thanks to its closed-cell EVA foam construction, 5X greater resistance, and reversible blade-safe design. For best value, the Hedgehog Spiral Featherboard offers one-handed operation and wide compatibility at a strong price point. For magnetic mounting on cast iron tables, the Magswitch Universal Featherboard delivers unmatched setup speed and 95lb hold force per magnet.
Final Verdict
After months of testing these ten featherboards across table saws, router tables, and bandsaws, the BOW Products EVA Featherboard remains my top recommendation as the best featherboards pick for 2026. Its closed-cell EVA foam fingers, strong miter bar, and reversible design deliver the safety and consistency that serious woodworkers need.
If you want the best value for general shop use, the Hedgehog Spiral Featherboard is hard to beat thanks to its one-handed operation and wide compatibility. Budget-focused buyers outfitting multiple machines will get the most from the POWERTEC Universal Tandem 2-pack. Cast iron table owners who want instant setup should look at the Magswitch Universal Featherboard. Whichever model you choose, adding any of these best featherboards to your workflow is one of the smartest safety upgrades you can make this year.