How to Use a Reciprocating Saw to Cut Wood
The piston-like motion of a reciprocating saw's blade cuts aggressively through wood. It's ideal for carpenters, framers, demolition crews and electricians and plumbers who have to cut through wood to place electrical or plumbing lines. The versatility of this portable power tool is increased by the different saw blades for it. Blades made from compositions like bi-metal, high carbon steel and cobalt with varying teeth per inch, teeth degrees and set patterns, that all work on wood, and being able to adjust the settings for the strokes per minute on a reciprocating saw makes cutting though wood easy. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Install the correct blade for the wood being cut, a blade that will have a minimum of three teeth engaging in the wood being cut with a low tooth per inch (TPI) for rough cuts and a high TPI for finishing cuts. Use a high-degree set for rough cuts and a low-degree set for smooth cuts, with a composition that is strong enough for the strength of the wood and a blade length that is long enough to pass through the wood being cut. The blade manufacturer will have printed guidelines on which blades are best for cutting wood.
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For horizontal cuts or vertical cuts, position the shoe of the reciprocating saw firmly against the wood to be cut, turn the saw on and cut the wood. Keep the shoe steady against the wood at all times.
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For plunging cuts, place the shoe against the wood at a 45-degree angle. Pivot the blade slowly until it is perpendicular to the wood and cut through it. Starting at a 45-degree angle limits the vibration and makes it possible for the blade to penetrate the wood without breaking.
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To make cuts flush against a wall, ceiling or floor, install an offset blade adapter and adjust it for the correct angle. Place the foot against the wood and cut. Offsetting the blade makes it possible to cut at an angle where the saw housing will not get in the way.
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To make a flush cut through wood that is mounted below arm level, reverse the tooth position of the saw blade in the saw 180 degrees and cut through the wood in an upwards motion.
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Tips & Warnings
Never use a dull or damaged blade.
The faster speed you set the saw at the rougher the cut will be.
Never force the saw, give the blade time to cut through the wood.
Never cut through wood that is not already secured by nails or clamps.
Wear safety goggles when cutting through wood to avoid severe eye damage.
Blades can break and shatter. Be aware of where your coworkers are at all times and advise them to wear safety equipment also.
