Tools

How to use a handsaw

People often think they need an electric saw to make cuts. All you really need is a simple but good quality hand saw in your toolkit. It has many advantages as you do not need to run an extension cord or charge its battery. The risk of serious injury is minimal compared to power tools. This step by step guide will tell you how to make a straight cut through a piece of wood. It will take some practice but once you get the "hang" on it, you might find yourself using a handsaw more often instead of using a circular saw.

This is what you need:

Sharp saw (if your saw is dull it will be difficult to cut)Carpenter's squarePencil, and last but not least, a board to cut :)

Step 1: Mark the wood

First, make a straight line on the wood with a square exactly where you want to make the cut.

Step 2: Make a starting notch

Next, pull the saw toward you on the line you marked. (Do NOT use pressure on the saw) This creates a notch, to start your cut if you want more of a notch its okay to do this a couple of times. Use your thumb as a guide to make sure the primary cut is parallel to the line you marked.

Step 3: Cut

Then push the saw down with light force on the wood. Let the saw do the job for you! Make sure the blade is always straight up and down and the blade is not tilted sideways. If you see the cut is starting to go crooked start to correct it by putting a twisting force on the blade and guide it back to straight. You have to keep sighting along the blade and your cut line to keep the cut straight. 

Step 4: Repeat

Repeat until the wood gets cut all the way through. When you have cut almost all the way through the wood put less pressure on the wood so you don't splinter the cut. Make sure you support the piece that is getting cut off so it does not break off causing a splintered cut. Once you have done one cut keep practicing because it can take a long time to get good at making straight cuts. Practice, Practice, Practice.

Soon you will find yourself grabbing the handsaw for quick cuts instead of setting up an electric saw. 

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