How to Use a Circular Saw

The circular saw is one of the handiest portable power tools, but it is potentially very dangerous. Be sure you understand how to use this tool safely.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Work Gloves
• Work Gloves
• Measuring Tapes
• Circular Saws
• Dust Masks
• Safety Goggles
• Saw Blades - Circular
• Safety Goggles

1. Make sure you are using the correct blade and that it's properly seated and tightened. Always use a sharp blade. Dull blades bind and overheat.

2. Check the blade guard. Is it in good shape and functioning properly?

3. Set the depth of the blade to no more than 1/4 inch more than the thickness of the wood to be cut. The workpiece is more likely to kick back if you have too much blade exposed.

4. Support the work on both sides. Clamp it on one side if you have to.

5. Look for knots and nails before you begin. Avoid them if possible; if they cannot be avoided, be cautious when approaching them.

6. Start the blade before it meets the work.

7. Stand to the side when you saw in case the wood is kicked back, and don't over-reach. You should always have both feet planted firmly on the floor.

8. Don't push the saw, just guide it with a little pressure.

9. Let go of the trigger if the blade binds, and stick a wooden shim in the cut to release it.

10. Wait for the blade to stop before removing it from the wood.

Tips & Warnings

• Familiarize yourself with your saw. Read the owner's manual carefully and heed all safety suggestions.
• Wear goggles and a dust mask when operating your circular saw.
• Never saw wet wood.

[HandyMan001]

on 9/22/2008 I respectfuly disagree with these two other comments. I'am a professional handy man and i kniow what im talking about. If anyone has any other questions about using a circular saw please do not go to anyone else but me! Everyone else is completly wrong and I dont need to hear what they have to say.

on 1/30/2006 Always hold the circular saw with two hands. If you try to hold the wood with one hand and the saw with the other, there is a possibility that the saw will slip and cut the hand holding the wood or kick back and cut something else.

on 11/22/2005 When cutting large sheets of plywood, keep the cord across the board on the side AWAY from the blade to prevent "trapping" between the pieces.

on 11/22/2005 Always ensure the blade is installed in the proper direction. Portable circular saws rotate in a counter-clockwise direction and blades are marked with an arrow to line up with the counter-clockwise direction.