Encyclopedia

of Home Improvements

*Circular Saw*

A portable circular saw is one of the basic power tools that should be in any homeowner's toolbox. (photo1) With it you can cut any kind of wood or plywood quickly and accurately. Circular saws are available in various sizes. Specialty blades and a rip fence will help you to cut different materials accurately and safely.

The default tool and one that every manufacturer makes is the 7-1/4-in. model. This number designates the diameter of the blade that the tool holds. This model is the most popular because it can cut through 1-1/2-in.-thick lumber (2 x 4s, 2 x 6s, etc.) in a single pass--at 90° and when the foot is tilted, at 45°.

High-end saws have amp ratings of around 15, while less expensive consumer saws have motors that draw around 10 amps. Battery operated saws are perfect for trim and molding work.

A circular saw is easy to use, however it tends to be very loud, can create a lot of dust and is deceptively dangerous. Because it's compact, relatively lightweight, and its blade is nearly always covered by either the guard or the wood you are cutting, it's easy to become careless when using it. Make sure you understand the safety instructions that come with the tool, and follow them carefully whenever you are working.

CROSSCUTS
Nearly perfect crosscuts can be achieved by using a square to guide the foot of the saw. You must hold the square firmly or the saw can slip.

RIP CUTS
Accurate rip cuts can be made with the help of a rip fence. This device slides into the foot of the saw and is held tight by screws. I use the rip fence to trim doors accurately.

PLUNGE CUTS
These cuts are required when the blade can't start at the edge of the board. To make this cut, place the front of the shoe against the work piece. Then, turn on the saw and slowly lower the blade into the material.

Back to Tools Page

Contact