If you have tried using a circular saw to make straight cuts, you know it can be a struggle. This tool is difficult to move in a straight line due to its rounded blade. Fortunately, several methods can make the task easier.
To cut a straight line with a circular saw, you will need a guide. You can create your DIY circular saw guide or invest in tools like the Kreg Rip-Cut or Accu-Cut. You can also cut in a line using a simple straight edge.
There are other ways to cut a straight line with a circular saw, which we’ll explore below. This article will also share some tips on using different circular saw guides. But first, let’s look into the properties of a circular saw.
What Is a Circular Saw?
A circular saw is a power tool that uses a round metal blade. It connects to a motorized spindle, which rapidly spins the abrasive disc to cut different materials.
The term “circular saw” usually refers to a handheld tool for cutting various materials. However, this power tool also comes in a table- or stand-mounted version.
Circular saws are popular tools in woodworking and construction projects. They are also suitable for cutting metal and plastic.
Circular saw blades allow you to cut in three different ways.
- Rip cut – This type of cut follows the wood grain or along the length of the board.
- Crosscut – It cuts against the natural wood grain or across the width of the board.
- Miter cut – It moves in a diagonal pattern against the grain of the wood.
Overall, circular saws are powerful and versatile tools for cutting a wide range of materials.
What Are the Different Ways To Cut a Straight Line With a Circular Saw?
A circular saw is a common cutting tool. However, it can be difficult to cut straightly with this power saw due to its rounded blade.
Fortunately, there are various ways to help you cut straight with a circular saw. Follow any of the methods below to achieve straight cuts.
Cut Straight Without a Guide
You can cut straight using a circular saw without a guide. Yes, it is difficult, but it is possible.
Use a ruler to mark a straight line. Next, position the saw blade at the start of the line and begin cutting.
If you feel the saw moving away from the pencil line, stop it. Then, go back at least six inches behind where you first strayed in the mark. Start cutting again.
Repeat these steps until you have cut across the wood.
However, note that this method only works if the wood is less than eight inches wide. Cutting wood any thicker than that can be trickier and requires a circular saw guide.
Draw a Line with a Straight Edge
A straight edge is a tool that can help you cut across the wood easily. It is suitable for making long, straight cuts on wood, regardless of its edge shape.
To use the straight edge as a circular saw guide, ensure it is aligned on the wood edges.
Then, secure the straight edge to the wood. You can do this in two ways—use clamps or screws to fasten the pieces of wood together.
Once everything is secure, you can saw along the mark while using the straight edge as a guide.
Use a Rip Fence
A rip fence is another tool that guides the circular saw to cut a straight line. As its name suggests, it can help you achieve a rip cut.
To use a rip fence properly, you must first draw a straight line on the wood surface. Use a pencil to create these markings.
Next, align the rip fence with the edge of the wood.
Then, position the circular saw blade parallel to the cut line. Turn on the saw and begin cutting. With the rip fence in place, you can ensure the blade won’t move away from the straight line.
Mark Straight Lines with a Speed Square
You can use a speed square if you don’t need to cut across the entire plywood. This tool allows you to make short, straight cuts quickly. It is also ideal for cutting along the width of the board (crosscut).
Start by marking the cut using the speed square.
Next, place the circular saw blade on the mark. Put the speed square against the base of the saw.
Then, push the circular saw against the square and begin the cut.
Note that a speed square can limit the length of the cut due to its own measurement.
Create a DIY Circular Saw-Cutting Guide
Do you want to achieve precise crosscuts and miter cuts with your circular saw? It might be best to create your cutting guide from scratch.
Use two scrap pieces of plywood to craft a DIY circular saw-cutting guide. The larger chunk acts as the jig base and the guide at the same time. Meanwhile, the narrow piece of plywood is the fence of the saw base plate.
Position the large wood in the area where you want to cut. Next, use wood glue to fasten both pieces of plywood.
Place the circular saw on the edge of the DIY cutting guide. Then, begin to cut.
Invest in a Kreg Rip-Cut
The Kreg Rip-Cut is a cutting guide that attaches to most circular saw brands. It comes with a measuring scale built on it to improve accuracy. This tool eliminates the need to measure each cut individually.
To use a Kreg Rip-Cut with a circular saw, you must first identify the locations for the cut. Mark these using a pencil.
Next, position the saw sled at your desired cut area.
Then, mount your circular saw to the Kreg Rip-Cut sled (it’s universal).
Once secure, glide the sled onto the aluminum rail. Lock the cutting area using the precision cursor and measuring scale.
You can now make straight cuts with the circular saw.
Consider the Kreg Accu-Cut
The Kreg Accu-Cut is another popular cutting guide.
It features a track system that transforms your circular saw into a track saw. It is easy to set up—all you need to do is align the track with your desired cut line.
The Kreg Accu-Cut also has an anti-slip coating. It prevents your tool from moving off-course in the middle of the cut.
Overall, the Accu-Cut enables you to make crosscuts, rip, and angled cuts up to 50 inches long. It is more advanced and versatile than the Rip-Cut, making it ideal for larger and more complicated woodworking projects.
What Are Other Tips for Cutting a Straight Line With a Circular Saw?
Knowing the different ways to cut a straight line with a circular saw isn’t enough. You must also learn how to use them properly for a successful cutting project.
Below are some tips when cutting a straight line with a circular saw.
Wear Safety Equipment
Sawdust can get into your eyes when cutting wood with a circular saw. It is best to wear safety goggles or glasses to protect your eyes from debris.
You must also wear a pair of work gloves. Doing so can keep your hands safe from the sharp saw blade and splinters from the wood.
You may also want to consider using earplugs to prevent damaging your hearing.
Secure the Wood Properly
After marking, you must secure the wood you intend to cut. Doing so makes it easier to make straight cuts and prevent the sheet from moving.
You can use a clamp to fix the wood in place.
Or, if you use another piece of wood as a straight edge, you can screw it to the larger wooden sheet.
Mark the Cut Line
Depending on the saw-cutting guide you use, you may need to mark the cut line.
Use a pencil and a ruler or straight edge to draw the markings.
Next, place the saw base on the wooden material. Ensure the blade is not touching the surface to prevent accidental cuts.
Then, mark the edge of the saw base plate. It can help the circular saw cut a straight line.
Hold the Saw Securely
Holding the circular saw properly is essential to prevent injuries and ensure cutting accuracy.
With your dominant hand, firmly grip the handle. Wrap your fingers around the trigger.
Then, hold the auxiliary handle (if your saw has one) with your free hand to maintain control over the power saw.
Cut With the Good Side Down
A circular saw rotates the sharp blade upward to cut wood. It can lead to splinters on your wood if you’re cutting across the grain.
It is best to cut with the good side of the board facing down. So even if you have splintered wood, you can hide its bad side after the assembly.
Conclusion
A circular saw cannot make perfectly straight cuts on its own. It needs a cutting guide to create unbent lines on wood.
There are seven ways to cut a straight line with a circular saw. You can use a rip fence or invest in Kreg tools like the Rip-Cut or the Accu-Cut.
Do you need more help cutting with a circular saw? Leave a message on our contact page, and we’ll get back to you shortly.
