What is a Track Saw? How to Use a Track Saw?

If you're constantly working with wood whether it's professional or just for home works, you've probably heard of the track saw. For those new to the wood industry, you may have heard about them or may not. So, what is a track saw? A track saw, called also a plunge saw, is a type of circular saw but more efficient and developed.

While a circular saw has blades exposed revolves around the arbor, a track saw with its blade hidden in the tool, thus being able to make much more accurate and cleaner cuts. Track saws are also much safer than conventional circular saws.

Most track saws offer features such as speed control systems, dust ports, protective rails that all improve their efficiency. The track saw is generally flexible, accurate and portable. It used to perform various tasks and can be used as a board, panel, miter and circular saw thus very handy.

The track saws work effectively on hardwoods and other materials. Although it may be a bit more expensive than a circular saw, it is well worth the money and you will get better results with a track saw than a circular saw. It saves your time and makes your work easier and leaves behind a dust-free work area.

For first-time users, the track saw might be a little difficult to operate one, but it's really not that hard. You just need to follow the instructions provided in most user guides. There are some tips you need to have at the back of your head every time you operate the saw. Always remember:

• Using the track saw properly: use it for pieces of wood, avoid using it on other materials like metal. Using it on non-wood materials will destroy the blades and can also be dangerous to you and other people around. Remember to be safe first.
• Make sure your saw blade is sharp enough before going to work. If you have the right saw blade and sharp blade, your job will be easier and less effort-consuming. It will also save your time to complete a certain task. You also have assured of getting optimal results with a sharp blade.
• The riving knife is a safety measure. Therefore, prevent kick-back, ensure user safety, should be well placed before operating. Make sure it fits with the blade.
• For a quality cut, the appropriate cutting depth must be set. Different track saws have different depth limits, so depending on your saw, set the correct depth for greater results.
• Hold the saw firmly when cutting through the material to prevent kick-back. A track saw usually has to be treated for a better grip.
• You can use the rails that will guide you to improve accuracy. It will make sure you get splinter-free cuts.
• Once you've activated the power, give it time to increase its power and reach its maximum speed. You can always adjust the speed depending on the material you are working on.

A track saw includes the basic parts:

• Handle: it is the part used to hold the tool when cutting.
• Power switch: it is the button used to turn on and off the tool. Always make sure everything is well installed before turning on the tool. Otherwise, it could be dangerous to you or could cause the saw to be damaged.
• Bevel adjustment: it is used to choose different cutting angles.
• Blade: it is part that actually cuts. It has a tooth-like structure and is secured by clamps or bolts.
• Other parts: cord, blade guard, plate, motor, and other accessories.

Setting a track saw varies from one to another. Below is a general description that you can follow to set up any track saw. First, attach the saw tightly to the guide rail, if you are using that. Fasten the cams to the base plate so you can glide the saw on the track. When the saw is well placed on the rails, slide the saw into the groove to eliminate an excessive break. You’re now set to work on your material.

If you are looking for a track saw, then you may need to understand all the details about them before buying. We will show you how to choose the best track saw and compare it with other power tools. Read on to better understand these tools. This is what you should look for in a track saw:

Motor power: the first thing you need to pay attention to. A good saw should have at least 9 amps or more.

Cutting capacity: it is the cutting ability and quality obtained from the saw. It occupies various aspects from; cutting depth and also the type of material it can cut. You don't want to buy a saw that can't cut through hardwood.

Blade quality: the actual cutting is performed by the blade. Therefore, this is a very important feature to think about when buying a track saw. If you have a saw with a good quality blade, then you may not need to change the blade often and this will save you a decent amount of money.

Corded vs. cordless saw: corded saws use electricity for its power, while cordless saws use batteries as the main power source. Corded saws only need power to operate as long as you may need them, with cordless saws you must regularly check to make sure the battery is fully charged before starting work.

If you try to compare track saws with circular or table saws, the track saw is easier to carry, flexible, accurate and safer than other cutting tools. This is why track saws are more popular.