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How to Use a Track Saw (Step-by-step Guide)

By: David S. Miles | Last Updated: January 15, 2024

Makita XPS01PTJ : How to Use a Track Saw In this building era, various building tools have seen a boom in their technology and efficiency. So, no wonder, more and more professionals and DIY workers are opting for these power tools. A track saw certainly leads the woodworking industry in this regard.

Due to its user-friendly functions, efficiency and high-performance, track saw is steadily getting famous among all. However, there’s a dark side to it.

Many beginners don’t know how to use a track saw that results in poor finishing in the projects. So, to take you out of such a dilemma we bring you the easiest and straightforward ways to use a track saw accurately.

What is a Track Saw?

How to Use a Track Saw

As the name suggests, a track saw is a specially designed circular saw, and it runs on a track or rail. It’s compact, and so, the handheld operation is possible. People also call the track saw as a plunge saw as well as plunge-cut saws sometimes.

Unlike other circular saws, a track saw comes with defined cutting depth.

How to Use a Track Saw Efficiently & With Safety

How to Use a Track Saw

Before we dig deep into the ways of using a track saw with 100% efficiency, let me tell you that the process is straightforward. So, don’t get panicked if someone tells you that using a track saw is a meticulous job.

Don’t believe me? Read on the following user guideline.

Material handling capacity

The first rule to successfully use your track saw is to know which material you can cut with it. Remember that track saws are made to cut and shape different wood-based materials. So, a track saw is functional for cutting, shaping, or resizing wood stocks, lumbers, plywood and trim.

So, for the safety and durability of the plunge saw, don’t try to expose it to ceramic or concrete materials.

Blade selection

Track saw blade : How to Use a Track Saw

The performance of the track saw will largely depend on its blade quality and type. So, depending on your work and cut type, you should select the right blade for the track saw.

For instance, with the more toothed blade, you will get an excellent finish, and for general cuts, you should go with a less toothy blade. We recommend you use the module with 14-16 teeth for standard cuts and a higher level of accuracy and finishing use blades with 48 teeth. The 48 toothed blade is suitable for working with plywood.

Cutting depth adjustment

The cutting depth enables the track saw blade’s thick cutting. As you will need to set the cutting depth according to project requirements, bear two things in mind.

    1- Experts recommend not to use a track saw for cutting wood with less than 1/8” thickness.

    2- The cutting depth should also be such that the track saw can perform it without any probable hindrance. If the cutting depth is too thick, the blade may not reach the bottom. Whereas, for skinny extent, the blade may get damaged.

Adjusting the riving knife

It is a safety feature that people often undermine while using a track saw. It prevents kickbacks and saves you from potential falls.

Before you start the track saw carefully, check the alignment of the riving knife, and adjust it appropriately. Also, check the distance for a risk-free and smooth cutting session.

Hold and start the saw

How to Use a Track Saw

You should hold the plunge saw firmly so that it doesn’t slip as you perform different cuts. Also, the starting of a track saw is different from other saws. You will need to turn on two parts separately. These are-

  • Power trigger
  • Plunge release

Once you switch on the plunge release, the blade will come out from the saw housing. As the module opens up from the tool’s housing, press the trigger of the saw. But don’t start your cuts immediately. Give the saw some moments to come into full speed, lest it should damage the wood with abrupt cuts.

So, with the press of power and plunge switch, you can turn on the track saw.

Waiting for the desired speed

I already told you that you have to wait for the blade to come to its full speed. Don’t take this for granted. Wait until you see the blade working with its total power. It will make your work fast and also safe.

Never ignore the safety requirements

Since using a track saw is extremely easy, even for beginners, most people forget about their safety. We strongly discourage you from such things. Instead, use protective goggles and wear gloves so that you remain safe under all circumstances.

Using track rails

The best part of a plunge saw is its ability to work on a rail or track. The guided fence is hugely beneficial for accurate straight cuts within a limited timeframe.

Conclusion

We end this track saw using the tutorial here with high hopes that you find it helpful. We also know that you will love the step by step on how to use a track saw with a detailed guideline. Yet, if you see something hard to understand, reach us immediately.

We will be glad to solve your every woodcutting issue.

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