Reciprocating Saw Introduction

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This page is INCOMPLETE and still missing some important information before it can be used as a resource. Please use the "Discussion" feature above or talk to one of the tutors if you would like to help improve it. Thanks!



This is the content required for an introduction to our reciprocating saw - reading this does NOT replace the mandatory session with a tutor! It will make it a lot quicker though ;-)

Let's begin! First off, make sure you have read the tool's manual (Bosch PFZ 700 PE: here).

Safety

Dangers

  • sharp oscillating blade - possible kickback
  • generates dust and small chips
  • generates noise

Precautions

  • make sure the blade path is free and you won't cut into the table or similar
  • make sure the blade is long enough so that it can reach through the material when fully retracted. (too short a blade relative to the material being cut will cause dangerous kickback)
  • before cutting into the workpiece, make sure there are no obstacles such as nails in it
  • secure the workpiece with clamps so nothing shifts and nothing large falls down once the cut is made
  • wear goggles
    • perhaps also wear a dust mask (depending on the material you're cutting)
  • wear ear defenders
  • make sure the locking lever isn't "on" before plugging the saw in (the trigger should move freely)
  • make sure the blade is not moving before putting the saw back on the table
  • in order to avoid kickback: never turn on the saw when the blade is touching something (e.g. the workpiece)
  • always let the baseplate touch the workpiece before starting to cut
  • leave the sawblade in the cut until it has stopped

Demonstration

During the introduction, the tutor will show you the following:

  • inserting/removing saw blades
  • choosing and changing the orbital action settings (Bosch PFZ 700 PE: chapter 7 in the manual)

Besides these safety notes, you should know which type of blade is suitable for the material you want to cut!