How to Unlock the Cutting Head on a Tool Shop Miter Saw

A motorized miter saw, also known as a chop or a drop saw, has a safety device known as a lock down pin. This pin allows the saw to be carried around while the saw is locked in the "down" position. When activated, the saw's cutting head will not rise up. This gives the carrier little access to the blade while carrying the tool. Without this safety feature, carrying a motorized miter saw around would be cumbersome and dangerous.

Things You'll Need

• Motorized miter saw

Instructions

1. Grip the handle firmly with one hand while you apply gentle downward pressure.

2. Grab the lock down pin, which is located near the junction of the arm and the base. Gently pull this pin out.

3. Pull the cutting head up. Now you are ready to use your chop saw to cut boards.

Tips & Warnings

• Always keep your miter saw in the lock down position when you are not using it.

References

• Stanford university: How to use a chop saw
• Video.yahoo: How to use a Ryobi 10 inch compound miter saw.
• Dewalt: Instruction manual for a 12 inch compund miter saw