The saw is typically used for long cuts where a perfectly straight cut isn’t a requirement. This type of saw actually comes in a either a right or left-handed design by switching where the blade sits. There are larger and smaller compacted saws. The compact saw is easier to maneuver. Use the saw appropriate for your task at hand.
Bosch CS10 7-1/4-Inch 15 Amp Circular Saw
Perhaps one of the most recognized power tools for the woodworker or carpenter, the circular saw offers portability and versatility to the user. It is the "go anywhere" power tool of choice when it comes to cutting wood for a wide variety of tasks or projects. Builders and carpenters usually own several!
Key features
- High-Performance Motor delivers 4000 RPM's for aggressive cutting
- 6-1/2" Carbide Tooth Blade delivers a 2-1/8' cutting capacity
- Beveling Shoe pivots up to 50 degrees
Specification
Brand: Bosch
Model: CS10
Weight: 10.2 lbs
DEWALT DWE575SB 7-1/4-Inch Lightweight Circular Saw with Electric Brake
Perhaps one of the most recognized power tools for the woodworker or carpenter, the circular saw offers portability and versatility to the user. It is the "go anywhere" power tool of choice when it comes to cutting wood for a wide variety of tasks or projects. Builders and carpenters usually own several!
Key features
- High-Performance Motor delivers 4000 RPM's for aggressive cutting
- 6-1/2" Carbide Tooth Blade delivers a 2-1/8' cutting capacity
- Beveling Shoe pivots up to 50 degrees
Specification
Brand
Model
Weight
Makita 5007MG Magnesium 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw
Perhaps one of the most recognized power tools for the woodworker or carpenter, the circular saw offers portability and versatility to the user. It is the "go anywhere" power tool of choice when it comes to cutting wood for a wide variety of tasks or projects. Builders and carpenters usually own several!
Key features
- High-Performance Motor delivers 4000 RPM's for aggressive cutting
- 6-1/2" Carbide Tooth Blade delivers a 2-1/8' cutting capacity
- Beveling Shoe pivots up to 50 degrees
Specification
Brand: Makita
Model: 5007MG
Weight: 10.1 lbs
Ripping blade
Used for cutting with the wood grain. Has many teeth (48 or more) and small gullets for a smooth cut.
Power
When purchasing a saw, it should have enough power to slice through everything from wet lumber to dense hardwood so it will be useful no matter the project. Today, there are corded and cordless options allowing you to take the saw with you and not always looking for an outlet. The cordless saw is usually more compact. it and best used wood since it requires less power and will not drain the battery as quickly. They can be used to cut through tough materials, but be ready to charge the battery often.
There are other factors to consider when it comes to blades. Pick the blade depending on the material being cut. Plywood blades are for cutting plywood and has fine teeth. Crosscutting blades are for cutting against the wood grain. There is also a fine tooth finish blade for extra smooth cutting. Ripping blades are for cutting parallel to the wood grain. If you are uncertain of the blade type needed, don’t hesitate to ask someone at your local hardware store. They will make sure you are using the correct blade for the correct project. You can cut laminate countertops with a regular blade due to the laminate being layers of plywood. Cutting stone will require a stronger blade. If you are cutting metal you will need not only a different blade but a different saw.
Circular Saw Blade Examples
Ripping blade
Crosscutting blade
Combination blade
Plywood blade
Used for cutting plywood or other sheet goods. Usually has many fine teeth (100 or more).
Hollow ground blade
Used for cutting dimensional or engineered lumber. Thinner in the body than in the teeth to prevent binding.
Thin kerf blade
Used for cutting dimensional or engineered lumber. Has a thin profile for easier cutting and less material waste.
Cutting Depths
The depth of the cut with the blade can be adjusted via a knob usually located near the back of the saw. This adjustment knob may vary depending on the make and model, but most are located on the back of the saw somewhere. Simply turn this knob and the depth plate will slide allowing you to adjust the depth of the cut. Make sure your blade is at the correct depth for the thickness of the wood you are working with.
Cutting Angles
The angle of the cut can be adjusted as well. There is a place on your saw that will have knob to adjust the angle which allows the saw to create beveled cuts. This type of saw is not usually the best for beveled cuts but they can be done. If your saw is not cutting square, check the way the angle is set on the saw.
Ripping blade
Used for cutting with the wood grain. Has many teeth (48 or more) and small gullets for a smooth cut.
Common Features
All circular saws should come with a safety blade guard that will cover the bottom of the blade. It protects the blade until you manually move it when you go to use the saw. Once you start the cut, the blade guard will move out of the way around the saw. Never remove the blade guard. You will need to pull the blade guard up with the hand not holding the saw.
Another great feature on a saw is an electric brake. The electric brake uses the power in the saw motor to slow the blade when the trigger is released. Reversing the current stops the blade’s momentum quickly. Electric brakes can stop the blade in seconds.
EurekaZone EZ Smart Guide System
At first glance the EZ Smart system looks similar to other guide fences in that it uses a straight piece of aluminum to guide your saw.
Using Your Saw
Before we get to the actual cutting, scribe the line on the board or item you wish to cut. Measure twice and cut once is the old saying when building. Make the mark dark enough to be able to site it in the notice on the saw guide. The notch is located on the foot plate and allows the saw to stay flush against the work piece. This notch is there to make sure you are cutting on the line. Some saws will have laser guides to help improve cutting accuracy. This laser projects a beam of light ensuring straighter cuts and eliminate some user errors.
Once setting up the blade and angle for the project measuring twice, cutting the wood with the saw is as easy as pushing a button located on the handle of the saw. Simply pull the trigger with the hand you are using to grip the saw and the saw will start cutting.
Safety
Reminder: Only use the saw when you are comfortable with your power tools because comfortability will lead to safer use. Power tools should be respected as damage can occur if something goes wrong or is unsafe. Wear safety googles while using your saw no matter the material you are cutting. A trip to the hospital due to debris in your eye will immediately put a damper on your project. Secure all loose clothing, jewelry or long hair. Clamping your material to a work surface will also allow you to use both hands to guide the saw.
The Circular saw can be useful in many household projects. It is important to understand the saw and parts prior to the first cut to ensure a safe and well cut project.
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