Woodworking Tips for Using Your Circular Saw

Circular Saw Woodworking Tips

A circular saw is a absolute necessity for a carpenter on a construction site, but there are a number of uses for a circular saw in fine woodworking projects as well. For instance, when used with a straight-edge, a circular saw can cut sheet goods such as plywood as accurately (and with more ease) than a table saw. With special blades, a circular saw can even be used to cut curved shapes. Learn how a circular saw can be used on your fine woodworking projects. 

Circular Saws

While the table saw is probably the most useful power tool for a woodworker, for a carpenter on a job site, the most useful power tool would probably be the circular saw. A quality circular saw can be used for a wide variety of tasks both on a job site and in the wood shop, as the same tool can cross-cut and rip boards, both square to the face and at bevels of up to 45 degrees. Here are some tips to consider when choosing a circular saw.

Circular Saw Measuring Jig

When working in your shop, your table saw is always at the ready for making a variety of cuts quickly and easily. If you are on a construction site, you don't have that luxury. You can, however, make a considerable number of similar cuts on a job site using a circular saw, a straight-edge and a circular saw jig. In this guide, learn how to make a circular saw measuring jig that will let you align your straight-edge to make precision circular saw cuts quickly and easily.

Panel Cutting and Ripping Jigs

The main purpose of a woodworking jig is to make a difficult task easier, safer or easily repeatable. While many commercial woodworking jigs are available on the market, a number of woodworking jigs can be built in the woodshop. Two very useful homemade jigs are used for panel cutting and ripping boards using a circular saw. By following the step-by-step how-to instructions in this article, you can make these jigs and use them on your woodworking projects.

Jig Saws Guide: No Need To Be Puzzled

With its tiny blade extending straight downward, the jig saw may look like the weakest member of the saw family. But its ability to cut graceful curves, as well as its portability, make it one of the most sought-after power tools.

Circular saws cut far faster than jig saws but only in a straight line. And while large band saws can turn out graceful curves and loops, they can't exactly be dropped into a toolbox. The jig saw's combination of cutting agility and lightweight size make it ideal for cutting out sink holes in counter tops, cutting openings for electrical outlets, making decorative scrolls for cabinets or shelf brackets, and scribing trim to make it conform to an uneven surface such as brick or stone.

And, yes, it can even cut out the puzzles that bear its name.

No matter what the brand, jig saws operate in the same way: a stubby blade that extends downward from the motor housing moves up and down at a rate of up to 3,000 strokes per minute. They're not the fastest saws in the shop, but they're precise and the ability to maneuver them carefully is crucial.

Handle Styles

Something to Hold Because of its precise nature, more attention is paid to the type of handle a jig saw is equipped with than just about anything else.
Two types exist:

• Most American-made models come with a handle that forms a loop at the top of the housing. It's comfortable to hold.
• Many European models come equipped not with a separate handle, but a grip that surrounds the motor housing similar to the type found on orbital sanders. This allows a closer connection with the tool that some people prefer because it gives a greater sense of control.