What is a plunge saw used for?
Basically, a plunge saw is used for: 1 Quick, accurate, and repeated cuts in small or large pieces 2 Optimal control, even when you’re working with rigid laminates 3 Bevel and mitre cuts (e.g. vertical and horizontal cuts) 4 Examples: roofing, insulation, cutting laminates, cutting doors without removing them from their hinges, etc. More ...
What is a track saw (or plunge saw)?
Thankfully, you can shorten the process considerably by using a track saw (also often referred to as plunge saws). What is a track saw and what its uses? A track saw is a useful power tool that allows for ultra-accurate cuts along a straight line, to be made on all sizes of wooden boards.
What size guide rail do I need for a plunge saw?
Festool who is a leader in the plunge cut track saw market offers guide rails from 32-inches (800mm) to 197-inches (5000mm) in length. You could get a shorter track and use extensions to lengthen the track when needed. However, it is important that the extension tracks are connecting precisely.
How do you use a track on a circular saw?
When you want to cut, simply attach the metal track on to the workpiece, then plunge the circular saw into the work-piece and move it forward along the guide-ways (or the track). The track stabilizes the saw, so you don’t have to worry about the saw slipping or moving away from the marked line by accident.
How does a plunge saw guide work?
0:001:47Using a Guide Rail - Tips on Getting the Most From Your Plunge SawYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAction on this saw is unique to the wall they call it a parallel plunge which means that these twoMoreAction on this saw is unique to the wall they call it a parallel plunge which means that these two metal bars in here. As you push the sword down they collapse in a parallel motion.
Can you use a plunge saw without the track?
Yes, you can use a track saw without a track. The saw will function the same as a circular saw when used this way. The Festool track saw even has a separate depth setting for use without the track.
Why is a plunge saw better than a circular saw?
A plunge saw has a different design which removes the need for a conventional retractable blade guard, as the blade is enclosed within the machine. This ensures multiple benefits versus the traditional circular saw including: The blade can be plunged at any point into the material you are cutting.
What are plunge saws good for?
The plunge saw is the secret weapon in the tool kit of any DIY creator who needs to make long straight cuts. They're light, portable and make clean cuts a breeze. From making cabinets to trimming doors or cutting off overhanging decking boards, the plunge saw is the ideal tool to handle the job.
Can I turn my circular saw into a track saw?
2:103:25Turn Any Circular Saw Into A Track Saw! - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd you just turned every single circular saw into a track saw with just a little bit of know-how.MoreAnd you just turned every single circular saw into a track saw with just a little bit of know-how. And knowing exactly how far your blade needs to be from the fence.
What track saw cuts deepest?
Festool TS 75 EQ-F-PLUS ▲ Its 8 1⁄ 4 " blade provides the deepest cut capacity at just over 2 3⁄ 4 ".
How do you cut a chainsaw with a plunge?
2:533:41Chainsaw Boring Cut, otherwise called a Plunge cut - 03:41 - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd it can bind the chainsaw to the point where I can't get it out. But if I boar cut it and thenMoreAnd it can bind the chainsaw to the point where I can't get it out. But if I boar cut it and then cut down then it relieves the pressure and actually opens the cut on the bottom. Like.
Can you plunge cut with a circular saw?
1:074:27How to Make a Plunge Cut with Circular Saw Cut Shape in WoodYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo what we're going to do is we're going to do what's called a plunge cut. And what we do is we takeMoreSo what we're going to do is we're going to do what's called a plunge cut. And what we do is we take the shoe the shoes the bottom of the saw here alright and this is a reference.
Are track saws worth it?
When it comes to making long and accurate cuts, a track saw is well worth it. It is a great alternative to the table and circular saw, with as an added plus that the track saw is more compact and portable. Better yet, if you want to break down large sheets of plywood, it's a much safer alternative.
How deep can a plunge saw cut?
Bevel-cutting capacity can be set from -1° to 47° and can cut up to 1 ½ deep at 45°. The Plunge saw is also designed for safety and ergonomics. Handles keep your hands well away from the blade.
How does a track saw stay in place?
While it cuts, a plunge-cut track saw rides along a stable track, which stays in place thanks to non-slip, non-marring pads on its underside.
Can you joint with a track saw?
0:064:22Joint Large Lumber with a Track Saw for DIY Wooden CountertopYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd enjoy so I discovered this you can use your trap saw quickly and easily joint these pieces soMoreAnd enjoy so I discovered this you can use your trap saw quickly and easily joint these pieces so that they fit absolutely perfectly.
What's the difference between a plunge saw and a track saw?
A plunge saw, sometimes referred to as a track saw, is a type of hand held circular saw which slides on a rail during application. You can perform long and accurate cuts with a plunge saw. Unlike other saws, a plunge saw can be fed at the start of the material or be plunged directly into where you need to cut.
How do track saw tracks stay in place?
The saw blade sits right at the edge of the track, and your accurate measurement along the span of the wood you are cutting, coupled with the track edge, will maintain that line. The track lays flat on whatever you are cutting, and its sticky base holds it in place to guide it along the lines you've measured.
Do you need to clamp a track saw?
Track saws make long, precise cuts faster and better than table saws and circular saws. They are light and portable, don't need clamps and set up quickly and accurately.
Can you plunge cut with a circular saw?
1:074:27How to Make a Plunge Cut with Circular Saw Cut Shape in WoodYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo what we're going to do is we're going to do what's called a plunge cut. And what we do is we takeMoreSo what we're going to do is we're going to do what's called a plunge cut. And what we do is we take the shoe the shoes the bottom of the saw here alright and this is a reference.
What Is A Plunge Saw Used For?
We already delved into this topic a bit in the sections above, but now we’ll try to give you more examples.
Can you make a worktop with a circular saw?
So even though you can technically make a worktop for your sink with a circular saw, you’ll need more work, and you’ll make more splinters.
Is a plunge saw the same as a track saw?
Some sources mention plunge saws and track saws as the same thing.
Can you plunge a saw straight into a material?
And yes, you’ve guessed it. You can plunge the saw straight into the material you want to be cut. Other saws, by comparison, need to be placed at one end or the other.
Can you use a circular saw for plunge cuts?
After all, your circular saw doesn’t have riving knives, so you can definitely use it for plunge cuts.
What Is a Plunge Cut Circular Saw?
A plunge cut circular saw combines both a plunge cut and circular saw blade to make a basic tool that allows you to pass into materials at any point rather than the start or end.
What Are Plunge Saws Used For?
Well, circular saws are first off handheld and the blade is not fixed, this means you need more skill to make accurate cuts than a plunge saw user, the blade on these saws is also exposed and they often do not have a dust port.
What Does a Plunge Saw Do Exactly & How Does It Work?
Now we know a plunge saw is used for making long rip cuts and cutting wood with high accuracy, we can explore exactly how these tools work and the mechanisms behind the cutting process as well as the main features of one of these saws.
How To Use a Plunge Saw
Using a plunge saw is simple for beginners and does not require too much skill to be able to handle the blade thanks to its fixed design.
Final Words
Overall, a plunge saw or track saw is essentially a mounted circular saw with a track guide that keeps the blade fixed but allows you to move it up and down to cut material at any length according to the depth that you desire.
Can a plunge saw be used without a track?
A plunge saw is a type of circular saw that is designed to make plunge cuts (cuts that start in the middle of a workpiece, rather than at the edge). Plunge cuts are useful for making clean, precise cuts in materials like wood, metal, and plastic. While a plunge saw can be used without a track, it will not work as well as it would with a track.
How do you use a plunge saw and rail?
To use a plunge saw and rail, first clamp the rail to your work surface. Then, position the saw on the rail so that the blade is perpendicular to the work surface. To plunge the saw, press down on the trigger and push the saw forward until the blade is fully plunged.
How deep can a plunge saw cut?
Plunge saws can make cuts that are up to two inches deep. However, the depth of the cut will depend on the type of blade that is being used.
Can I use my circular saw as a track saw?
Use a guide rail system with your circular saw to achieve track saw accuracy. Most guide rail systems consist of two guide rails and clamps that attach the rails to your work surface. Guide rails ensure your saw moves in a straight line, making cuts that are more precise than freehand cuts.
Is a track saw worth it?
Yes, a track saw is worth it for many reasons. They are very versatile and can be used for a variety of tasks, including making straight cuts, miter cuts, bevel cuts, and even dado cuts. They are also much safer to use than a traditional table saw, since there is no exposed blade.
Can Makita use festool track?
There isn’t a definitive answer, as it depends on the specific model of Makita that you have. Some Makita models are compatible with Festool track, while others are not. Ultimately, it’s best to consult your Makita’s owner’s manual to see if compatibility with Festool track is recommended or advised against.
Does Makita track saw have a riving knife?
Most Makita track saws do not come with a riving knife. However, there are a few models that do offer this feature. The models that come with a riving knife are typically higher-end models and are more expensive.
How do plunge saws work?
Upon first use of the saw, a rubber strip on the outside edge of the rail is trimmed to the exact path of the blade , whereafter it will act as an anti-splinter device. This, combined with the absolute precision afforded by the guide rail, and especially in conjunction with a good quality blade, enables extremely clean and accurate cuts, of comparable quality to a table saw.
What is a plunge saw?
A plunge saw is a type of circular saw which typically houses its blade on a spring mounted system inside a solid metal blade guard to the right of the trigger. The blade must be plunged down to the required depth before it can engage the workpiece, hence the name. The machine can be fed into the edge of the material once it has reached plunge ...
How many watts does a plunge saw use?
Plunge saws are power hungry beasts, and with motors rated at 1200 watts and upwards, have historically been corded machines. However, with recent developments in battery technology, notably the DeWalt Flexvolt system, battery powered variants such as the DeWalt DCS520 54v Cordless XR Flexvolt Plunge Saw are now a viable alternative.
What can a Bosch GKT 55 GCE plunge saw cut?
Thanks to its variable speed and Constant Electronic system, the Bosch GKT 55 GCE Plunge Saw can be used to cut a variety of materials, including wood, aluminium and acrylic glass.
What is the best saw for cutting large boards?
1. Cut Capacity: a plunge saw is usually the best option for safely and accurately trimming large boards and sheet goods to size. 2. Quality of cut: plunge saws are capable of producing exceptionally clean, splinter free and accurate cuts. 3.
What are the advantages of plunge saws?
Another key advantage of plunge saws compared to other options on the market is that they usually offer excellent dust extraction, a primary concern when cutting large amounts of sheet goods and especially materials like MDF.
When did plunge saws come out?
Buyers Guide to Plunge Saws. Although they have been commercially available since at least the 1980s, when Festool – then Festo – released their AXF and AT series machines, there have never been as many options of plunge saw available on the market as there are today. Whereas they may have once been regarded by many as a specialist ...
How does a circular saw work?
How does it work? The circular saw moves in the metal track along a straight line. When you want to cut, simply attach the metal track on to the workpiece, then plunge the circular saw into the work-piece and move it forward along the guide-ways (or the track).
Why use a straight edge on a circular saw?
However, the track system eliminates any chance of errors that can arise from the sideways movement. Another advantage of track saw is the dust collection system that helps you to keep your work area clean.
What is a track saw?
A track saw is a useful power tool that allows for ultra-accurate cuts along a straight line, to be made on all sizes of wooden boards. In simple terms, it is a circular saw that is attached on to a precision metal track. It is also known as plunge saw or plunge-cut saw. The above shows a Festool track saw cutting a wooden board.
How to cut large pieces of wood?
Firstly, you cut the larger wood with your circular saw. Then, you cut the smaller pieces of wood with your table saw, which is a lot more accurate than your average circular saw. This process is cumbersome and unnecessarily long. Thankfully, you can shorten the process considerably by using a track saw (also often referred to as plunge saws).
Why do track saws have metal tracks?
The track stabilizes the saw, so you don’t have to worry about the saw slipping or moving away from the marked line by accident. Because it has the metal track, track saws have a wide variety of uses.
What are the advantages of a track saw?
Advantages of Track Saw. The primary benefit of a track saw is that you do not need a large machine like a table saw to make accurate straight cuts. Moreover, compared to other portable saws like circular saw or jigsaw, the track saws have a couple of distinct advantages.
How to make precise cuts?
To make precise cuts, you should be able to keep the metal track properly attached to the wooden board. The workpiece should be stiff enough to support the track saw. If you are cutting very thin sheets additional support may be needed. When working in tight space the length of the track may cause hindrance.
What is a plunge saw?from protrade.co.uk
This is where a plunge saw, or track saw as it’s also known, comes into its own. A plunge saw has a different design which removes the need for a conventional retractable blade guard, as the blade is enclosed within the machine. This ensures multiple benefits versus the traditional circular saw including: 1 The blade can be plunged at any point into the material you are cutting. 2 An enclosed blade is safer and significantly improves dust extraction efficiency. 3 The saw has a smooth and flat side that can be used as a guide against a wall or the floor. 4 Depth of cut can also be adjusted with a simple sliding mechanism at the front of the saw.
What is the difference between a plunge saw and a guide saw?from protrade.co.uk
The biggest and most important difference with the plunge saw however, is the ability to run it along a rail or track. Guide rails can be purchased in many lengths and can even be joined seamlessly together with simple connecting pieces. The underside of the rails have a non-slip material strip to stop the guide from moving or sliding around when in use, ensuring maximum accuracy. Furthermore, there is an option to use ‘rail clamps’ for extra stability and added peace of mind. It doesn’t end there; the rails also have a plastic splinter-guard on the cutting edge to assist when cutting materials that are likely to splinter, such as laminated boards and worktops. If used with the correct and sharp blade, you’ll be left with a finished edge, meaning no need to sand down to a smooth finish. When using a plunge saw with a guide rail, it’s a very simple process… line the rail up with your mark, set your depth, place the saw on the rail, plunge and cut!
Where can I get a traditional circular saw and a plunge saw?from protrade.co.uk
Protrade stock two different brands of plunge saws, aimed at the professional and industrial trades. Although similar in design, they have differing innovative features, which I will go through in a future blog. See below for more information on the plunge saw range available at Protrade:
Why use an enclosed blade on a saw?from protrade.co.uk
An enclosed blade is safer and significantly improves dust extraction efficiency. The saw has a smooth and flat side that can be used as a guide against a wall or the floor. Depth of cut can also be adjusted with a simple sliding mechanism at the front of the saw.
How to use a plunge saw with a guide rail?from protrade.co.uk
When using a plunge saw with a guide rail, it’s a very simple process… line the rail up with your mark, set your depth, place the saw on the rail, plunge and cut! I would always recommend using a plunge saw with dust extraction.
What is a circular saw?from protrade.co.uk
A conventional circular saw is actually a very basic design consisting of a motor, blade, blade guard and base – to adjust the depth of cut you loosen off a thumb turn nut and set the base to the depth you require to make your cut. As you then cut, the blade guard retracts out of the way, allowing the saw to do its job.
How long can you use a TS55 table saw?from festoolownersgroup.com
You can always by the TS55 or TS75 and try it out for 30 days to see if it works as expected or fits your workflow and/or return it or buy a table saw later to supplement it... There are lots of users here that have gone that route and it seems to work fine for most things.
6 Tricky Steps To Cut Plunge With A Chainsaw: Do It Carefully
Here are some important and simple steps to cut plunges using a chainsaw. Hopefully, this will be helpful enough in cutting your plunge.
Step-1: Gather The Necessary Equipment
Before you begin the process of plunge cutting with a chainsaw, gather a few useful tools that will make your job easier. You will need the following tools:
Step-2: Mark The Cutting Area
Before starting the plunge cut, measure the cutting area on the workpiece and mark it with a pencil. It needs to be measured accurately, otherwise, the cut can be difficult or the product is almost impossible to adjust.
Step-3: Set The Depth Of The Saw Blade
Woods can be thin or thick. The depth of the blade needs to be set accordingly to make the plunge cut accurate. Needless to say, there is no special feature to set the depth of the chainsaw’s blade. In that case, it can damage the part of the table under the wood while cutting.
Step-4: Wear Safety Gloves And Helmet
Generally, you should take some precautions when using chainsaws, especially when plunging. Wearing a helmet and gloves will give you adequate protection before the final cut begins. These are mandatory to avoid any unwanted injury while doing plunge cuts.
Step-5: Place The Chainsaw
If you do the plunge cut for the first time, the cutting may not be straight, it is likely to bend. A vertical line can take it to cut straight and perfectly. Decide which side of this line you want to start cutting and set the saw there.
Step-6: Start Plunge Cutting
Now it’s time to start cutting. The chainsaw should be started at one end of the perpendicular line of the piece of wood at the exact tip. Before that, hold it tightly with both hands so that it does not tilt to the right or left. Turn on the trigger after making sure the saw is in the correct position.
