How to Cut Wood With a Circular Saw

Circular saw commonly found in new construction.

Circular saws are one of the most common power tools used in home construction. These hand held tools use a high-speed saw blade powered by an electric motor to cut through lumber. It is very important to read the instructions before using a circular saw. It is a very dangerous tool and should be handled and used with extreme care. The user must follow the manufacturer's recommended instructions to avoid possible accidents, which could lead to injury or death.

Things You'll Need

• Work table
• Pencil
• 2-inch by 6-inch by 8-foot board
• "C" clamp

Instructions

1. Clamp one end of the board to the work table. This will prevent the board from moving during the cutting process. Make sure that the area of the board that will be cut is away from the table. This keeps you from cutting your table.

2. Mark where the cut will be on the new board using the pencil. Plug in the circular saw and move it over to the work table. Note that on the front of the saw is a little notch or reference line. If you move the reference line along the pencil-drawn line, that is where the saw blade will cut. All cuts must be straight to avoid damaging the saw.

3. Place the reference line at the start of the pencil mark. Make sure that the saw blade is away from the wood enough so that it can start spinning freely. Start the saw by squeezing the saw trigger. Proceed to push the saw along the pencil line. Move with the saw and do not try to force it. Allow the saw to cut at its own pace. Continue pushing the saw until the board is cut all the way through.

Tips & Warnings

• Use caution when using a circular saw. Keep hands away from the cutting area.

References

• Uhh.hawaii: CIRCULAR SAW SAFETY
• Bhg: Cutting with a Circular Saw