Improvements to a paper web material dispenser, for example a roll tissue dispenser or a roll paper towel dispenser, that has a user actuation mechanism for rotating a dispensing mechanism of the dispenser. The dispenser is designed to prevent excessive force that is applied to the user actuation mechanism from causing damage to components of the dispenser connected to the user actuation mechanism. A torque limiting mechanism is used to limit the torque that is applied to the dispensing mechanism of the dispenser when a user applies an excessive force to the user actuation mechanism. The torque applied to the dispensing mechanism is kept below a level that would be sufficient to cause damage to the dispensing mechanism or portions thereof.