There are many factors to consider when purchasing a track saw. Some of these factors are safety features, bevel capacity, Slip-clutch, and rive-knife. Safety features are also important because they keep a track saw free of splinters. So, are track saws safe?
Safety features
Track saws have a range of safety features to make your work safer. Some models include a stop on track, slip clutch, and continuous kickback protection. Others have a camming device to prevent kickback.
A track saw’s aluminum tracks grip the clamp and guide the saw above. This feature prevents the saw from slipping and marring the work surface.
The tracks are also lined with slip-resistant rubber padding to help reduce the risk of splinters and chipping. Most track saws also have variable speed motors that are equipped with electronic feedback circuitry to reduce resistance. Many track saws also have a dust port to remove any debris that might get into the blade.
Another important safety feature of a track saw is the safety of its users. Most track saws have a long cord that can potentially be tangled with a workpiece. Choosing a track saw with a cord extender ensures you have more flexibility and range when navigating long tracks.
Track saws come with a range of features, including a riving knife and an electronic riving knife. Track saws with electronic riving knives can also provide a higher level of safety due to the lack of resistance and smoothness. However, some track saws do not come with these features.
You can take a look at our best track saws guide.
Bevel capacity
Track saws have a variety of features, but there are two main factors that affect bevel capacity. First, you need to know whether you need to bevel the saw at all times. If you do, then you should check whether the saw has a bevel limiter.
A limiter prevents you from accidentally cutting into something and causing a splinter. Second, the bevel limiter should be adjustable.
Track saws are available with various guide lengths. Depending on the material that needs to be cut, you may need a longer track. For example, a 48″ track will not be adequate for cutting 4×8′ sheet goods. But if you need to cut a large sheet, a 62″ track might be perfect for your needs.
Another feature that is helpful is bevel locking. Some track saws are equipped with dual bevel locks. This allows you to adjust the angle of the saw from one side to the other. This feature helps you save time during the production process. Moreover, it also makes the cutting process more flexible.
Track saws with a bevel lock feature can prevent the saw from tipping, which is a common problem with other saws. Some saws have two knobs for locking and unlocking the bevel. Others use a single knob for locking the bevel.
Slip-clutch
When you’re not working on your car, a track saw is a great alternative. Most models are designed to handle a wide range of materials, and there are even special-purpose track saws. These are especially useful for cutting metals, wood, tile, and concrete. These tracks feature extra teeth for a smooth cut and can be easily replaced.
The safety of a track saw is an important consideration. Track saws are generally safer to use than circular saws, and they have a number of added features to protect you. Some models come with a dust extractor that removes most of the dust from the blade. Other features are a guide rail that ensures straight and smooth cuts. The track saw is also easy to transport, and it has an inbuilt dust port.
Unlike regular saws, slip-clutch track saws are safe. They have a locking mechanism that prevents the saw from slipping off the track while the saw is working. While this feature limits the saw’s ability to slide, it does not eliminate the possibility of accidents.
When you’re working with a track saw, you should wear protective clothing and hearing protection. Also, make sure the track saw blade doesn’t come into contact with anything. It’s also important to pay attention to the location of the cord. It should be well positioned so that it doesn’t come in contact with your workpiece or any loose clothing.
Riving knife
When cutting with track saws, it is very important to use a riving knife to prevent kickback. This prevents the blade from binding in the cut, which reduces your workload and protects sensitive surfaces. A riving knife is built into the blade guard of most track saws.
You can buy these replacement knives separately or in sets. You must be sure that you buy the right one to suit your needs. When changing the riving knife, you should be aware of the cutting process. You should be aware that the process is somewhat complicated.
Many customers have called in for service because they did not follow the instructions. For starters, you need to make sure that the riving knife fits correctly into the sustainer handle cutout on the track saw.
The blade size can vary. A smaller blade is ideal for smaller cutting tasks. It will perform the same cutting task as a larger one, but it will have less width. The riving knife on a table saw is a little wider than a smaller blade.
This means that you can make smaller cuts while maintaining kerf separation. Your riving knife will need to be wide enough to prevent kickback.
25-foot cord
The length of a cord can greatly affect the safety and usability of any saw. A track saw is no exception, and many framing and roofing carpenters replace the standard cord with a longer one. A longer cord reduces the risk of cord ends tangling or snagging.
Track saws are safe to use. The 25-foot cord is longer than most corded saws. This feature allows for longer reach and more precision when cutting. They also have a single-speed motor without a soft start.
A molded primary grip and spacious trigger are also nice features. One drawback is the plunge release, which is too far back and up to engage easily. Other user reviews have praised the smoothness of the plunge action, which can become a bit tiring after 50 or so repetitive cuts.
Another benefit of track saws is their ability to make precise cuts with ease. The blade can move very quickly, and the blade can be adjusted to fit any project. This makes it safe for use in tight spaces, such as under tables and in closets.
Unlike many other types of circular saws, track saws don’t require a guide. They have a long, rubber strip along the cut edge. The rubber strip is black, making it easy to see.
Another great feature of track saws is the extra-long cord. A longer cord is necessary if you plan on using the saw outdoors. A longer cord is also safe if you’re cutting large sheets.
Most track saws have a cord length of 25 feet. In addition to this, they have a guide track kit, making them ideal for cutting plywood or other sheets. Most customers agree that track saws are great for beginners.
Dust collection
Track saws provide excellent dust collection, but they are not completely without issue. Festool track saws, for example, can have poor dust collection at the edges of a cut.
However, this problem can be fixed by adding an optional dust collection attachment to the tool.
Sign up for our newsletter to get the best of The Sized delivered to your inbox daily.
