I've had the lumber for an 8x4 garden box for a little while now, but I can't assemble the box until one of those boards is cut in half. "It's just one little cut -- surely it isn't that hard," I started telling myself. Maybe I'm finally gaining a teeny tiny amount of wisdom... but I decided that I better read up on how to use a power saw before tackling it. I googled "how to use a power saw" and got this.
By eHow Home & Garden Editor
By eHow Home & Garden Editor
The circular saw is one of the handiest portable power tools, but it is potentially very dangerous. Be sure you understand how to use this tool safely.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Things You’ll Need:
- Work Gloves
- Measuring Tapes
- Circular Saws
- Dust Masks
- Safety Goggles
- Saw Blades - Circular
Step1
Make sure you are using the correct blade and that it's properly seated and tightened. Always use a sharp blade. Dull blades bind and overheat.Step2
Check the blade guard. Is it in good shape and functioning properly?Step3
Set the depth of the blade to no more than 1/4 inch more than the thickness of the wood to be cut. The workpiece is more likely to kick back if you have too much blade exposed.Step4
Support the work on both sides. Clamp it on one side if you have to.Step5
Look for knots and nails before you begin. Avoid them if possible; if they cannot be avoided, be cautious when approaching them.Step6
Start the blade before it meets the work.Step7
Stand to the side when you saw in case the wood is kicked back, and don't over-reach. You should always have both feet planted firmly on the floor.Step8
Don't push the saw, just guide it with a little pressure.Step9
Let go of the trigger if the blade binds, and stick a wooden shim in the cut to release it.Step10
Wait for the blade to stop before removing it from the wood.----
Hmmm. I'm glad I read that before diving in. With three kids running around, now is definitely not the time to go experimenting. I don't even know where the manual is, let alone how to set the blade at a given height or make sure it's on tightly.
Guess I'll just work on patience a bit more.
