Guiding circular saws
Although a trained carpenter may do very precise work
by eye with a steady hand, there are some simple tricks
that may make even an experienced carpenter’s work more
accurate and efficient. A high level of accuracy may not
seem necessary in rustic work, but you still want your
tables to rest firmly on the ground without rocking, and
square cuts will help.
For square end cuts, a Speed Square held tightly to the
stock with one hand, or clamped in position with a small
clamp, makes a great guide for a circular saw. Simply hold the
square tightly to the edge of the stock, put the saw in place
to start a cut, and slide the square along until the sawblade
aligns with the mark for cutting length.
An aftermarket ripping guide can help make long cuts
without wandering. Adjust the space between the guide and
the blade to control the width of the stock. You might need to
change the position of the wood on the sawhorses as you cut,
to avoid cutting your sawhorses.Lay out the angle on the shelf supports.
Mark the 15° angle using a sliding T-bevel.
Measure from the first layout line to determine
the support’s final length.Cut the shelf supports to length. A handsaw
will be more accurate and safer to use on small
stock than a handheld power saw.A clamp-on saw guide is also useful in making long ripping
cuts, particularly when tapering cuts are required. Measure
and allow for the width of the plate of the saw, from the edge
to the blade, as you lay out your cuts.http://www.finewoodworking.com OUTDOOR PROJECTS 95
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