Abstract: The hold down apparatus includes cooperating adjustable fences confining a workpiece for travel past a rotary cutter. A hold down assembly of the apparatus includes wheel members carried by a vertically adjustable crossmember. The crossmember is biased by multiple springs with the spring rate being variable by threaded components. A screw shaft additionally permits precise vertical adjustment of the hold down means. A rearwardly off set hold down wheel prevents tipping of lengthy workpieces. The fences have recessed areas to allow positioning closely adjacent and inwardly past the hold down devices.