In the world of woodworking, furniture building and light construction there are many different saws available. Which saw is chosen for a particular job depends on what type of wood is used, what kind of cuts are being made and, of course, what kind of woodworking project is at hand. As most people know, just about every saw will make a clean straight cut if it is sharp and if it is used in the correct manner. But using the proper saw in a certain situation can make all the difference.
Table saws of the larger size, such as those used by an experienced amateur and the professional, can be used to cut sheets of plywood and framing lumber for new construction. But this saw certainly is not the best for trying to follow a scroll pattern. Both of these saws are available in bench models, but the similarity ends there.
Anatomy of A Table Saw
A table saw is separated, by definition, because of the table on which it is used. This platform is a cutting surface that comes in various heights and sizes. In the workshop of a professional the floor model table saw is used for larger projects, usually to cut longer, straight lines and to produce cut lumber in larger amounts. This type of saw is also made in smaller sizes and may be found in home workshops and in the shops of professionals who concentrate on smaller projects. One of the key features of these small saws is portability.
When researching or buying table saws it is best to understand a few of the key features, such as the handle or arm on some saws that can be adjusted and moved to make cuts. Other saws are designed to tilt or change angles for mitre cuts and other special needs on trim, moulding or decorative work. There are even sliding table saws used by some for particular cuts and special projects.
Interchangeable blades are a key benefit of most table saws as well, allowing for use on different woods and on different projects. The course blade is used for particular types of wood and types of cut, while the finer blades may be used for smaller projects and finish work. The variety of blades available from saw manufacturers has increased dramatically over the past couple of decades. Table saw blades are available for special projects such as cutting tile or small stone, with water often introduced to reduce heat and help the cutting. Some saws and blades are even used to cut metal.
Table saws have a guide or “fence” that is the primary way of keeping the wood and the cut in line. Most experienced saw users will look closely at the fence or guide system when shopping for a table saw, because this will determine the quality of cut made. In addition, a good guide system can reduce the amount of labor and stress on the operator.
Professionals and experienced amateurs also take a long look at the motor size and construction since this is the heart of any good power saw. The best reviews of are unsolicited. The Web is a good place to look for blogs and forums that can help someone choose a good table saw. Following the advice of those with experience, plus choosing a reputable manufacturer, will generally lead to the purchase of a quality table saw.
About the Author:
Leroy Calstard published first and foremost for http://www.insidewoodworking.com , an online publication on the topic of portable table saws . You can find his work on
portable table saw over at http://www.insidewoodworking.com .
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August 07 2008 | Table Saws | No Comments »
Reciprocating saws are not designed to be used by the feint of heart. They are a powerful and rugged tool meant to be used in construction tasks that require heavy duty cutting. For the weekend do-it-yourself enthusiast, the more robust construction models are not necessary in most cases. However, there are a number of lighter models on the market which can satisfy most requirements that may arise around the house. They are more affordable and easier to use.
In the following article, you’ll gain an understanding of the reciprocating saw, it’s used and the types available, along with some tips that can help you in deciding what tool will be most appropriate for your situation.
Before getting to the substance of the article, please note that if you’re in the market for a reciprocating saw, there is a large selection of reciprocating saws offered for sale at very advantageous prices through the eBay auction listings which you’ll find by clicking on the foregoing link.
Reciprocating Saws - The Jig Saws Mean Big Brother
The reciprocating saw is an adaptation of the saber saw, or jig saw, for heavy duty work such as construction. In this article I’ll cover the types available as well as blade types and their uses.
Reciprocating saws range widely in power, speed, and features, from less powerful portable, to high-power, high-speed, corded models. Modern reciprocating saws almost all have variable speed, using a trigger or preset using a dial. Another feature that has become important to the way these saws are used is the inclusion of an orbital action. The action consists of oscillating the traversed reciprocation in up and down fashion causing the tip of the blade to move in an oval pattern, up and down as well as back and forth. This feature is primarily for wood, allowing quick cuts.
The blades for these saws are range in length from 2 ½ to 12 inches, and are generally heavier than saber and jig saw blades. They range in purpose from cutting metal and wood as well as manner of materials in between.
Blade Types
Course Tooth - Typically used for cutting green wood.
Hack Saw - Used to cut metal, typically up to 1/8 inch in thickness.
Knife - This blade has the greatest range of uses. It cuts leather, rubber, cloth, linoleum, and many more similar materials.
Fine-tooth - When a smooth cut is need for wood, plastic, or hardboard this is the one for the job.
In many models, blades may be mounted to cut up, down, or horizontally, and flush with an adjoining surface. In structural work and remodeling, long blades are sometimes used to cut right through a wall, after of course making sure wire or plumbing won’t be damaged. Blades for such use can cut right through any nails they encounter. Blades manufactured specifically for cutting heavier metal, such as pipe or bar stock, need to be lubricated regularly with light oil.
These saws today almost always come with variable speed control. Speeds range from around 2300 strokes per minute down to a few hundred (for cutting steel and some plastics).
Picking the right saw for your own use really depends on the type of job(s) you intend to accomplish. A larger, more robust model is probably overkill for most around the home projects and not to mention the price for these puts them out of reach of most budgets. The smaller, lightweight, more affordable versions on the market today offer the typical handyman more then enough versatility to handle any “honey-do” list.
There you have it. Reciprocating saws are not for everyday use in most cases, but having one in your tool box is a smart decision for the avid do-it-yourselfer. Just remember to choose the right for your needs, and above use it and any power tool in a safe and controlled manner.
Chuck Lunsford is the Internet Manager for Mytoolplace.com. He offers advice on how to select and use the right reciprocating saw for the job. Visit our website and learn more about saving money on brand name cordless tools.
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May 09 2008 | Reciprocating Saws | 1 Comment »