Cutting with a Straightedge
Always use a rough-cut blade when possible.
Clamp a straightedge to the workpiece parallel
to the line of cut and flush with the side of the
saw foot.
Either a.) first mark the line of cut and then
position the straightedge parallel and at the
same distance as between the blade and
the side edge of the foot or b.) first mark the
side edge of the foot and then clamp the
straightedge on the mark and parallel to the cut
line (Fig. 9).
As you cut, keep the saw-foot edge flush
against the straightedge and flat on the
workpiece.
Plunge Cutting
Plunge cutting is useful and time-saving in
making rough openings in softer materials. It
is not necessary to drill a hole for an inside or
pocket cut.
a. Draw lines for the opening.
b. Hold the saw firmly and tilt it forward so that
the toe of the saw foot rests on the work, but
with the blade remaining well clear of the
work.
c. Start the motor, and then very gradually
lower the blade while keeping the toe on
the workpiece. When the blade touches the
work, continue pressing down on the toe of
the saw foot and slowly pivot the saw like a
hinge until the blade cuts through and the foot rests flat on the work.
d. Saw ahead along the line of cut.
NOTICE
We do not recommend plunge cutting with a scroll blade.
To make sharp corners, cut up to the corner, then stop the saw and back up slightly before
restarting and rounding the corner. After the opening is complete, go back to each corner and
cut it from the opposite direction to square it off.
WARNING
Do not plunge cut into metal surfaces.
Fig. 9
Fig. 10
Toe of Foot
17