Your first cut

Your first cut, step by step.

Seven habits, straight from the saw makers' own manuals, with simple pictures. Read once, practice on scrap, and you've got this.

1. Eyes and ears first.

   Wear safety glasses every cut — saw manuals require eye protection. Cordless saws are loud too (DeWalt declares 91 dB(A) for its compact saw), so add ear protection. source ↗

2. Guard on, blade sharp.

   Only run the saw with its blade guard working, and use a clean, sharp blade — a dull blade cuts slowly and makes kickback more likely. source ↗

3. Set the depth just right.

   Set the blade so about half a tooth pokes out below the board. Less exposed blade means less friction and less chance of kickback. source ↗

4. Support both sides of the cut.

   Big panels sag and pinch the blade. Put supports under the panel on both sides, near the cut line and near the edge. source ↗

5. Full speed before you touch wood.

   Squeeze the trigger, let the blade reach full speed, then guide it into the board. Touching the wood first can cause kickback. source ↗

6. Wait for the stop.

   After the cut, let go of the trigger and let the blade stop completely before lifting the saw. An electric brake helps — but it isn't a substitute for the guard. source ↗

7. Battery out to adjust.

   Remove the battery before changing the blade or adjusting depth or bevel. source ↗

Making the cut

1. Mark your line with a square and pencil. Clamp the board (and a straight-edge guide, if you have one).
2. Rest the front of the saw's base on the board, blade not touching the wood.
3. Squeeze the trigger, wait for full speed, then push forward smoothly — let the saw do the work.
4. Release the trigger at the end and wait for the blade to stop before lifting.

This guide summarizes general manufacturer guidance. Always read and follow your own saw's manual — it's the final word for your tool.