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How To Operate a Circular Saw

By Jeff Beneke, About.com

Circular saw blades don't know the difference between 2x4s and fingers. Making that distinction is your job. I've never had anything approaching a serious injury with a circular saw, and if you practice safe cutting, you shouldn't either. Here's some advice:
  • Always wear eye protection.
  • Use hearing protection if you will be operating the saw for any length of time.
  • Clamp the item being cut securely so that the cut end will fall away.
  • Visualize the path of the blade before you start cutting. Is there, for example, a table top underneath that is likely to cross that path? Or a knee?
  • Always use sharp blades.
  • Let the blade get to full speed before you begin your cut.
  • Let the blade come to a complete stop before setting the saw down.
  • Unplug the cord before changing blades.
  • Enjoy your cold beer after you've put the tool away. Operating power tools requires at least the same degree of concentration as driving a car in heavy traffic.
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