Knowing the basics of how to use a circular saw can go a long way to to creating amazing products safely. A circular saw is a tool which has great capacity to get more work done but with great power comes the need for great attention. Just as a word of warning, check out the following video which chronicles a mishap my son had with a mini-circular saw. Even a pro can get surprised!

A circular saw is a versatile power tool that can be used for a wide range of cutting tasks, including ripping and cross-cutting wood, cutting tile and other materials, and making bevel cuts. Here is a detailed instructional guide (a few basic tips) as a guide for the safe operation of a circular saw:

Circular Saw Tips

1. Set up the saw and workpiece: Before using your circular saw, make sure it is properly plugged in or charged and that the blade is securely in place. The blade should be tightened and tightened securely by using the lock nut provided. Check the alignment of the blade with the scale on the shoe plate, it should be parallel to it.
2. Next, place your workpiece on a stable surface, such as a workbench or saw horses, and secure it in place using clamps or a vice. This will help prevent the workpiece from moving or shifting while you’re cutting it. Be sure that the saw’s shoe plate is level with the surface of the workpiece.
3. Adjust the blade depth and bevel angle: Most circular saws have a lever or knob for adjusting the blade depth, which determines how deep the blade will cut into the material. This can usually be found on the side or back of the saw. Turn the knob or lever to set the blade depth to the appropriate level. As a general rule, you’ll want the blade to just barely protrude from the bottom of the workpiece you’re cutting.
4. Additionally, if you plan to make a bevel cut, use the bevel adjustment feature to set the angle of the cut. This can usually be found on the side of the saw near the base. Some circular saws can tilt the base plate up to 45 degrees to make bevel cuts.
5. Put on safety gear: Before turning on the saw, make sure you are wearing the proper safety gear, including eye protection such as goggles or safety glasses, and ear protection such as earmuffs or earplugs. Consider wearing gloves and dust mask to protect your hands and lungs.
6. To turn on the saw and make the cut: Hold the saw with both hands, one on the handle and one on the base plate. Firmly press down on the saw to engage the trigger switch. Begin cutting by guiding the saw along the line you have marked on the workpiece, keeping the base plate of the saw flat against the surface of the material. Keep in mind the direction of the cut, which is usually indicated by an arrow on the base plate, you want to move the saw in the same direction. Keep the saw pressed down against the surface of the material as you tilt it to the desired angle for making a bevel cut. Once you have finished the cut, release the trigger switch to turn off the saw.
7. Clean up and finish the workpiece: After the saw has been turned off, wait for the blade to come to a complete stop before moving it away from the workpiece. Carefully remove the workpiece from the saw and remove any sawdust or debris from the surface of the material. If necessary, use a chisel, hand plane, or sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges or uneven surfaces.
8. Maintain your saw and blades: Before storing it, clean the saw and the blades. Check that all adjustments are securely tightened and all guards are properly adjusted. Make sure to also check the blade for any damage, and replace it if necessary.

Addition Circular Saw Safety Tips

• Always unplug the saw or remove the battery before making any adjustments or repairs.
• Never put your hands near the blade while the saw is running.
• Use a straightedge guide or clamped-on guide to keep the saw on the cutting line and prevent the saw from drifting.
• Take note of the kickback when cutting, never allow your hand or any body part to be in the path of the saw.
• Wear protective eye & hearing protection, gloves and other protective clothing.
• Always use the guard for cutting, and make sure it’s adjusted properly for the type of cut you’re making.

• Always unplug the saw or remove the battery before making any adjustments or repairs.
• Never put your hands near the blade while the saw is running.
• Use a straightedge guide or clamped-on guide to keep the saw on the cutting line and prevent the saw from drifting.
• Take note of the kickback when cutting, which is a dangerous phenomenon that can occur when the saw blade binds in the material, causing the saw to jump back towards the operator. To prevent kickback, make sure your saw is properly adjusted and that you’re using the right blade for the material you’re cutting. Additionally, always keep your hands away from the blade and the line of kickback while cutting.

• Always use the guard for cutting, and make sure it’s adjusted properly for the type of cut you’re making. Guard or blade cover is provided with the saw to protect you from the blade and to help in preventing the kickback as well. Check that the guard is properly adjusted, clean and functioning before making a cut.

By following these steps and taking proper safety precautions, you can use your circular saw to make accurate, precise cuts in a wide range of materials. Remember that circular saws are powerful tools and that you should always handle them with care. Take your time and practice cutting on scraps of wood or other materials before attempting to make cuts on more expensive or important pieces.

Why you always listen to the saw !

In addition to the steps I’ve previously described, it’s important to pay attention to the sound of the saw as you’re cutting. A bogging down noise (the engine changing tone or speed) may indicate that the blade is being hung up on the material you’re cutting. This can happen if the blade is dull, or if the material is particularly dense or tough or if the saw is being turned or torqued improperly during the cut..

When you hear the saw bogging down, it’s important to stop the saw immediately and investigate the cause of the problem. Make sure the blade is still securely fastened and that the blade is sharp and appropriate for the material you’re cutting. Also check that the blade is properly adjusted to the right depth. If the problem persists, consider using a different blade or trying a different cutting technique.

It’s also important to note that if the saw is bogging down, it can cause the saw to bind and could cause a kickback. If a kickback happen you should stop the saw and make sure you’re following the proper cutting techniques.

If you are making a bevel cut, pay attention to the angle of the saw, if it’s too steep it can cause the saw to bind, make sure the angle is correct, in this way the blade can move through the material more easily.

By paying attention to the sound of the saw and addressing any problems immediately, you can help ensure safe and effective operation of your circular saw.