4
kickback forces can be controlled by the
operator, if proper precautions are taken.
b) When blade is binding, or when
interrupting a cut for any reason, release
the trigger and hold the saw motionless
in the material until the blade comes to a
complete stop. Never attempt to remove
the saw from the work or pull the saw
backward while the blade is in motion or
kickback may occur. Investigate and take
corrective actions to eliminate the cause of
blade binding.
c) When restarting a saw in the
workpiece, center the saw blade in the
kerf and check that saw teeth are not
engaged into the material. If saw blade
is binding, it may walk up or kickback from
the workpiece as the saw is restarted.
d) Support large panels to minimize the
risk of blade pinching and kickback.
Large panels tend to sag under their own
weight. Supports must be placed under
the panel on both sides, near the line of
cut and near the edge of the panel.
e) Do not use dull or damaged blades.
Unsharpened or improperly set blades
produce narrow kerf causing excessive
friction, blade binding and kickback.
f) Blade depth and bevel adjusting
locking levers must be tight and
secure before making cut. If blade
adjustment shifts while cutting, it may
cause binding and kickback.
g) Use extra caution when sawing into
existing walls or other blind areas.
The protruding blade may cut objects
that can cause kickback.
Lower Guard Safety
Instructions
a) Check lower guard for proper closing
before each use. Do not operate the saw
if lower guard does not move freely and
close instantly. Never clamp or tie the
lower guard into the open position. If
saw is accidentally dropped, lower guard
may be bent. Raise the lower guard with the
retracting handle and make sure it moves
freely and does not touch the blade or any
other part, in all angles and depths of cut.
b) Check the operation of the lower guard
spring. If the guard and the spring are
not operating properly, they must be
serviced before use. Lower guard may
operate sluggishly due to damaged parts,
gummy deposits, or a buildup of debris.
c) Lower guard should be retracted
manually only for special cuts such
as “plunge cuts” and “compound
cuts.” Raise lower guard by retracting
handle and as soon as blade enters
the material, the lower guard must be
released. For all other sawing, the lower
guard should operate automatically.
d) Always observe that the lower guard is
covering the blade before placing saw
down on bench or floor. An unprotected,
coasting blade will cause the saw to walk
backwards, cutting whatever is in its path.
Be aware of the time it takes for the blade
to stop after switch is released.
Additional Safety
Instructions
• Use clamps or another practical way
to secure and support the workpiece
to a stable platform. Holding the work
by hand or against your body leaves it
unstable and may lead to loss of control.
• Keep your body positioned to either
side of the blade, but not in line with
the saw blade. KICKBACK could cause
the saw to jump backwards (see Causes
and Operator Prevention of Kickback
and KICKBACK).
• Avoid cutting nails. Inspect for and remove
all nails from lumber before cutting.
• Always make sure nothing interferes
with the movement of the lower blade
guard.
• Accessories must be rated for at
least the speed recommended on the
tool warning label. Wheels and other
accessories running over rated speed
can fly apart and cause injury. Accessory
ratings must always be above tool speed
as shown on tool nameplate.
• Always make sure the saw is clean
before using.
• Stop using this saw and have it properly
serviced if any unusual noise or
abnormal operation occurs.
• Always be sure all components are
mounted properly and securely before
using tool.
• Always handle the saw blade with care
when mounting or removing it or when
removing the diamond knockout.
• Always wait until the motor has reached
full speed before starting a cut.
• Always keep handles dry, clean and free
of oil and grease. Hold the tool firmly with
both hands when in use.
• Always be alert at all times, especially
during repetitive, monotonous operations.
Always be sure of position of your hands
relative to the blade.
• Stay clear of end pieces that may fall
after cutting off. They may be hot, sharp
and/or heavy. Serious personal injury
may result.
• Replace or repair damaged cords. Make
sure your extension cord is in good condition.
Use only 3-wire extension cords that have