Abstract: A work holder for vertical band saws wherein a moving blade is laterally translated through a work table slot. The work holder includes a fixed reference member mounted on the table transversely disposed to the table slot and intersected by the blade. A clamp mounted upon the work table in alignment with the slot bridges the slot and saw blade path of movement holding the workpiece against the reference member permitting firm retention of the workpiece adjacent the blade to permit small pieces to be accurately severed.