Another thought on cutting surface. If you are using a table that is not solid, it might "bow" in the middle, under the cutter, making it seem like the cutter is skipping, causing you to push down, and maybe out. I have one of those big white tables and it had been a problem. Then saw a video or came upon an article can't remember, and got a big solid piece of wood. Actually it is a cabinet side from the $5 bin at IKEA but anything will do - put that on the table and cutting mat over it and much much better cutting surface. Also recommend changing blade often. A sharp blade really doesn't require that much pressure.