Operating a Circular Saw Norman OK

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A circular saw is a great construction tool that allows the weekend warrior to quickly and easily make cuts to tackle almost any project around the house. With a little bit of practice, you will find yourself cutting plywood or 2 x 4's like a pro. But before you plug it in and start ripping, there are a few things you should know.

First of all, read the owner's manual and become familiar with how your saw operates. Don't remove or bypass any safety features and guards; instead learn how to use them appropriately. And don't forget your safety rules wear safety glasses and ear protection, and don't wear loose clothing.

Circular saws are great for making cross cuts in solid wood, and they can also be used for ripping long cuts in sheet goods such as plywood. Always use sawhorses to support your work at a comfortable height. Clamp the wood to the sawhorses so that it doesn't move around on you when you're trying to cut it. Set your saw blade height so that it extends no more than inch deeper than the wood you're trying to cut.

Plug in your saw and pull the trigger to get the blade going. Most saws will have a safety button that will also need to be pushed before you can pull the trigger. Start with a straight cut to get the hang of how the saw works. The blade guard will be down when you start the cut, and will automatically move to allow the saw blade to pass through the wood. Once you are through the wood, the guard will again spring down to cover the blade. Let go of the trigger and let the saw come to a complete stop before you set it down. Congratulations, you just made your first cut with your circular saw!

Your saw will do much more than just make straight cuts. You can angle the blade for angled and compound cuts like you might find when installing crown molding. You can use different guides to make long straight cuts in sheet goods. Just remember to be safe. Make sure the saw comes to a complete stop before you adjust blade height or angle. A circular saw is great tool for the do-it-yourselfer - respect it and learn how to use it, and you'll be well on your way to mastering an old standby in homeowner's tool pouch.

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