When you have wood cutting work to do for work or household project, using a track saw can make your job a whole lot easier. However, these machines can be a bit intimidating if you haven’t used one before.
If you found yourself in that situation and want to learn how to use a track saw properly, continue reading. By the time you get to the end of this guide, you should be able to tackle any task that requires the use of this handy tool.
How to Use a Track Saw
Using a track saw is not as difficult as the machine itself might make it seem. However, whenever you are using power tools, you need to take the proper precautions and make sure that you are getting the job done right the first time.
So, here are the steps that you will need to take to use the tool for any wood cutting job.
Step 1: Choose Your Blade
Having the right blade on your track saw is as important as the machine itself.
So, to get a smooth, close cut you need to get the right size blade for the job. If you are working with hardwood, then a 14 teeth blade with work, but for plywood or trim, you will want a 48 teeth blade to get the smoothest cut.
Choose your blade wisely and with your current project in mind – and the rest should go really smoothly.
Step 2: Adjust the Blade’s Depth
When the blade of the track saw cuts into the material, you want it to go all the way through. You do this by adjusting the depth of the cut.
You want to measure the wood you are cutting and adjust the depth so that it will cut through the wood. That said, you don’t want the blade sticking out too much to minimize the risk of a kickback as much as possible.
Step 3: Place the Railing
When you have the blade and depth prepared for the job, you will want to place the track, or railing, of the saw onto the piece of wood you are going to cut. You can choose to draw a line along the track to ensure that the cut is straight.
Then, when you start cutting, you will follow that line.
Step 4: Attach the Saw
When the railing is on, you will need to attach the saw to the end of it so you can follow the track exactly.
Most track saws attach easily with a pop-in placement. In some cases, you will have to slide the saw onto the tracks from the end. In either case, this part of the process should only take a few seconds.
Step 5: Get the Tool Up to Speed
When you start the tool, you will need to enable the release for the plunge and enable the trigger. So, you will want to enable the plunge release, then press your finger on the trigger to start up the motor. But, before you start cutting the wood, you need to let the blade get up to the right speed.
Cutting into wood pieces with a blade that is moving too slow will cause cracks around the cut. So, let the blade spin for a few seconds and pick up speed before you put it in contact with your workpiece.
Step 6: Start Cutting
Once the blade is at the right speed, you can begin pushing the saw along the track and start cutting into the wood. This is the easy part because all you need to do is follow the line since the blade does the rest of the work. Just keep the saw steady and push it forward at a steady pace.
Once you’ve finished, take off the saw and track to see the straight cut up close.
The Basic of Track Saw Safety
When using a power tool, you need to take safety precautions. This means that you need to wear protective gear like eyewear, earplugs, and gloves when you are working. This will keep your hands, eyes, and ears safe from getting injured.
You also want to make sure that you adjust the blade depth to a suitable level for each material you are cutting. If you don’t do this, there is a bigger chance of kickback, which can be very dangerous. So, make sure not to forget it. Also, take your time and do it right since in this process, every fraction of an inch can matter.
You also want to ensure that everything around your workspace is ready. You don’t want a piece of wood to fall and break something that you like. So, clear the space before you begin working to make sure there are no accidents.
Mistakes to Avoid, Tips and Tricks
When working with a track saw for the first time, many people tend to make small mistakes. These are usually preventable, but if you don’t know what to look out for, you can’t stop them. So, I have a few that you should avoid by using these tips.
First, you want to use light pressure on the saw when you are cutting. Pressing down with your weight might feel like it would help, but this can actually cause problems with the blade. Allow the pressure you put on the saw to propel it forward and continue cutting instead. This makes it easier on your body, and you will have a longer-lasting blade.
Next, you should always make sure that the saw is all the way on the tracks before starting to cut the wood. If it is not connected correctly, the cut might be at an angle, or it could end up cutting the track by accident.
And finally, if you have trouble getting the machine to start up, practice engaging the plunge release and hitting the trigger before you use it for cutting. This will get you used to the motions and make it easier to do when you have a project.
Summary
Using a track saw doesn’t have to be intimidating, since using it safely is not a difficult task.
Just follow these steps and tips to make your woodcutting project easier, and remember to abide by all precautions to protect yourself, and you will be all set.