DIY: Tips for Using a Circular Saw

A circular saw is an essential tool for woodworking and home improvement projects. A versatile tool, circular saws can be used to cut through wood, metal, tile, concrete and plaster by simply switching out the blades.

Cordless and corded circular saws are available from a variety of manufacturers. The cordless circular saws provide you with the added freedom of using it when electricity is not available or easily accessed. Plus, they eliminate the worry of keeping the cord out of the way when cutting.

Circular Saw Tips for Safe and Proper Use

As with any power tool, be sure to carefully read the operating and safety instructions provided with your circular saw before using. Be sure to keep the instructions handy for future reference. A few tips for using a circular saw are outlined below:

Protect your eyes and hearing by wearing safety goggles and hearing protection. For certain projects a dust mask may be appropriate, too.

Dress appropriately when using a circular saw. Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry and pull long hair back to avoid the risk getting in the way while using a circular saw.

Keep hands away from cutting area and blade by using appropriate hand support of the saw with both hands as instructed in the operating instructions provided with your circular saw.

Keep body positioned to either side of the saw blade and not directly in line with the blade as kickback could cause the saw to jump backwards towards you.

Place the good side down when cutting with a circular saw. A circular saw blade rotates upward and can cause the topside of the wood to splinter when cut. To protect the side of the wood that will be finished, place the good side down when cutting.

Use a guide for long cuts when using a circular saw. A straight piece of wood can be used as the guide. Simply clamp the edge guide down to the piece of wood you are cutting and run the circular saw baseplate tight against the guide while moving the saw smoothly through the wood.

Adjust the saw blade before cutting as directed by the instructions provided with your circular saw. The blade depth and knobs should be tight and secure before making a cut. Make sure the lower guard is in place and working properly.

Use the right size and type of saw blade. Use the right size of saw blade for the cutting project you are doing will help reduce the risk of the wood kicking back. For special cutting projects such as metal or tile, use the right blade for the project. Do not use dull or damaged blades as they can cause the saw to kickback.

Use proper support when cutting with a circular saw. You should never cut items without support underneath. Clamp down wood that might move while cutting. Use saw horses for long pieces of wood to add additional support.

Make sure hand does not interfere with lower guard. Hold saw handle with one hand and place the other hand on the auxiliary handle while using light continuous pressure to cut wood.

Sources:

Skil Operating Instructions, S-B Power Tool Company, Chicago, IL, 2000

Cy DeCosse Inc, Handyman Club of America Everyday Home improvements, Volume 1, Minnetonka, MN 1994