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Have you ever had to fix some wooden stuff in your house by yourself? Have you ever wanted to cut something but don’t know which tools to use and how to use them properly?
In this article, I am showing you one of my favorite type of saw – a reciprocating saw. Why am I in love with this device? It is comfortable, portable, easy-to-use, and efficient in performing DIY projects.
Below are the simple steps to use the reciprocating saw. Let’s check it out now!
Table of Contents
1. Preparation
When it comes to the preparing process, we are talking about the kinds of blades and how we put them into the machine.
Kinds of blades
The reciprocating is not a fixed machine. It’s handy and portable so that you can easily bring it to a job site or anywhere you want. It also serves different purposes as there is a wide range of blades to use.
For example, you can cut a small piece of log or a water pipe with a sharp-teeth blade. Meanwhile, you have to use another kind of blade to cut a thick piece of steel.
First, check your material carefully and then, choose the suitable blade to cut it. It sounds simple, but this is one of the essential preparations when using reciprocating saws. So can you use a reciprocating saw to cut tree limbs?
Yes, you definitely can. Just by choosing the right blade, you can use this saw to cut any material with the appropriate sizes. Remember the “appropriate sizes” of the material. So yes, you can cut a small limb from a tree, but no, you can’t deal with a big one.
As you are a beginner and learning how to use a reciprocating saw, it would be better to carry out a proper preparation.
Insert a blade to the machine
Always make sure the blade is in the right position. This means the blade should stay fixed, steady in the slot and work stably.
First, release the current blade from the saw by removing the shoe of the saw and then, twisting the lock. After that, rotate the lock again to put your desired blade into the slot. Assemble the shoe of the saw firmly before connecting the saw to the power source. Also carefully pull the blade to check if it’s secure in the slot or not.
Above is just the first part of how to use a reciprocating saw for beginners. Now you will see the next crucial steps below.
2. How to use a reciprocating saw for beginners? Start as slowly as you can
Control the speed
Are reciprocating saws dangerous? Yes and No. I would say “yes” to careless, clumsy, and poorly understanding people. But “No” to those who have a thorough knowledge and always follow the safety rules.
As you are a beginner, you’d better start with reading the user manual carefully and seeking help from those who have experience with this device. Be well-prepared with protective gears such as eye-glasses, gloves, shoes, etc. Start approaching the material as slowly as you can. Control the speed of both your hand and the reciprocating saw to make a firm and clear cut.
Most reciprocating saws now have at least two-speed levels: high speed and average speed. You use high speed to cut soft material and average speed for the hard one. Always begin with the average speed when you are learning how to use a reciprocating saw.
Practice as many times as you can to improve your skills, accuracy, and your confidence.
Hold the reciprocating saw correctly
How do you hold a reciprocating saw in the right way?
Never touch the blade with your bare hands or feet even when it’s not in use. Hold the trigger by one hand; grasp the rubber part right next to the shoe of the saw firmly by the other one.
For safety usage, remember to have a comfortable and convenient posture before starting to cut. Do not overreach or lift the saw higher than your shoulders at any circumstance.
Safety is one of the most important things when using a reciprocating saw for beginners.
Check the shoe of the saw carefully
Yes, the shoe is another important part of a reciprocating saw. It helps stabilize both the saw and the material. It reduces or even eliminates the vibration thoroughly when you push it directly on the material’s surface. As a result, your cut will be clear and steady.
It will be dangerous if the shoe is loose or about to fall out. So, check the shoe and make sure it is firmly assembled.
In brief
Do you think it’s easy or difficult for beginners to use a reciprocating saw? I used to need help with this kind of saw until I could do the housework using the reciprocating saw by myself. If you follow the rules carefully, using this machine is only a piece of cake.
But wait, do you think this saw has some similar features with a jigsaw? Can you use a reciprocating saw like a jigsaw? Let’s find out the answer in my next article. Comment below if you need some help and I’ll reach you as soon as possible.