// Tools

Powered Hand Tools - Saws - Sabre, Jig and Reciprocating

What should you do before starting to cut with powered hand saws? Wear safety glasses or goggles, or a face shield (with safety glasses or goggles).

context Wear safety glasses or goggles, or a face shield (with safety glasses or goggles).
context Disconnect the power supply before changing or adjusting the blades.
context Use lubricants when cutting metals.
context Keep all cords clear of the cutting area.
context Position the saw beside the material before cutting and avoid entering the cut with a moving blade.
context Make sure guards, if present, are installed and are working properly.
context Inspect the powered hand saw before using it. Do not use a damaged saw (cracks, missing parts, frayed cords, loose fasteners) or a blade with missing teeth.
context Secure the workpiece using clamps or vise to prevent movement.
context Keep the work area clear.
context Make sure there is good lighting in the work area.
context Inspect the battery for any damage, cracks, or leaks before use.
context Follow the manufacturer's instructions for charging and storing the battery. Avoid overcharging or exposing it to extreme temperatures. See Battery Charging - Lithium-ion Batteries for more information.
context If using a battery-powered hand saw:

context Hold the reciprocating saw with both hands for better control.
context Remember, sabre saws cut on the up stroke.
context Secure and support stock as close as possible to the cutting line to reduce vibration.
context Keep the base or shoe of the saw in firm contact with the stock being cut.
context Select the correct blade for the material, and make sure it is clean and sharp. Let the blade do the work; do not force the cut.
context Set the blade to extend no further than 0.32 to 0.64 cm (1/8 to 1/4 inch) beyond the material being cut.
context Wait until the saw reaches its full power before beginning the cut.
context Do not force a saw along or around a curve. Allow the machine to turn with ease.
context Do not insert or withdraw the blade from a cut or lead hole while the blade is moving.
context Do not put down a saw until the motor has stopped.
context Do not reach under or around the stock being cut.
context Maintain control of the saw always.
context Avoid cutting above shoulder height.
context Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses or goggles, hearing protection, and respiratory protection, if required.
context Know what is behind or beneath the material before cutting, especially for drywall or flooring. Be aware of possible electrical wiring, water pipes, gas lines, or heating/ventilation/air conditioning (HVAC) components that could cause a hazard if struck.

context Place the front of the saw's shoe (base plate) firmly on the stock (material).
context Make sure that the blade is not in contact with the material before starting the saw to help prevent kickback or stalling.
context Hold the saw firmly with both hands, keeping it steady and aligned with the cut line.
context Switch the saw on and allow it to reach full speed.
context Slowly feed the blade into the stock, maintaining steady, even forward pressure.

Refer to Powered Hand Tools - Basic Safety for Electric Tools for general safety tips.

context Drill a lead hole slightly larger than the saw blade.
context With the saw switched off, insert the blade in the hole until the shoe rests firmly on the stock.
context Do not let the blade touch the stock until the saw has been switched on. Hold the saw firmly, switch it on, and allow it ot reach full speed before beginning the cut.
context Guide the saw smoothly along the cut line, using steady and controlled forward pressure.