Circular Power Saws – Adjusting, Setting, and Choosing the Right Blade

In a previous article I covered selecting the right circular saw and using it in a safe manner. In this article I'll cover how to adjust and set your new saw as well as how to pick the right blade for the job.

A safety tip before I go on. When replacing a blade, make sure that it will be turning in the right direction. This is generally indicated by an arrow on the blade. Putting the blade on incorrectly significantly increases the risk of personal injury.

Although circular saws operate at maximum efficiency when they are adjusted to cut just through the bottom of the work, many users leave the blade at the full-depth adjustment for general work. The difference in performance is only noticeable when you are cutting thick wood.

If the tilt angle of the saw has been changed at a previous stage of the job, be sure that it is correctly readjusted. You can check for right-angle cuts by cutting a scrap piece of wood and using a square on the cut section. If you adjust the saw for miter or bevel cuts, test the angle on a scrap piece before the cutting the pieces intended for the job.

When trying out a new saw, spend the time to familiarize yourself with all the adjustments by making several cuts on scrap wood. In this way you become familiar with this particular saw and the accuracy of its settings. Each saw is different, even among the same models. The calibration on the saw, showing angles and distance, should only be used as a guide, never for actual measurements. Remember, too, that the width of the saw kerf (cut) and the types of blades used affect the precision of the final result. Remove gum, dirt, and pitch from the bottom of the saw frequently as it will build up overtime to the point where the saws performance is diminished. Occasionally waxing the bottom of the saw is a good idea. It will help the saw glide smoothly over the work area. Also, make sure the trigger switch is operating smoothly and it does not inadvertently lock into the "On" position.

Choosing The Right Saw Blade.

Combination crosscut and rip blade – Suitable for most purposes. This blade does a good job of cutting thick or thin hardwoods and softwoods with or across the grain, as well as plywood and hardboard.

Crosscuts blades – This blade possesses fine teeth which cut smoothly across the grain of the wood. Suitable for cutting hard and soft wood as well as framing lumber such as 2x4's. This blade is not suitable for ripping.

Rip blade – A blade with larger teeth. This one is recommended for cutting a large amount of wood while going with the grain.

Hollow ground blade – This blade makes the sharpest cuts. It handles both thick and thin materials with little effort. Keep this blade sharp however to minimize wood fiber from fraying and scorching.

Abrasive blade – These blades are made to use on masonry, metal, plastic, and other hard-to-cut materials. Buy the blade to suit the material being cut.

There you have it. By now you should be comfortable enough to set up your circular saw to use. Just remember to take your time, test your adjustments, and always use the right blade for the job.