Rehd,
This is similar to my favorite. I usually cut a 1-1/8" slot at the back for my fingers to grip and stay up out of harms way and cut a duck tail kick up on the front (kind'da like pixey shoes) for a two-handed grip. When I get fancy I use 5/4" pine and round over the upper profile and the finger slot. Having spent this much time on the pusher I usually glue on a new "sole" when the original gets too cut up to use. As you say this type gives you very good control.
Geo. C.