I have just confirmed my recollection that the earlier (ie Neil Hemingway's) catalogue did not contain the claim that "Tension, induced by the pushrod, makes even the smallest tool surprisingly rigid" (and I have not seen this suggestion in relation to other push rod-based designs).
The primary function of the push rod is to secure the cutter, of course, but, instinctively, the claim seems valid; my understanding is that the reverse ie compressing the bar would make it stiffer.
Perhaps the OP should ask Kirk Burwell about this.
PS presumably the claim could be tested empirically.
Edited By ega on 14/08/2017 22:23:52
Edited By ega on 14/08/2017 22:42:51