16
Cutting Tips
WARNING
Before attaching the battery pack onto the tool, always check to
determine that the switch performs properly and returns to the “OFF”
position when released.
WARNING
Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields
during power tool operation or when blowing dust. If operation is
dusty, also wear a dust mask.
WARNING
To avoid loss of control and serious injury, make sure that the blade
reaches the full desired speed before touching it to the workpiece.
Face the good side of the material down and secure it in a bench vise, or clamp it down. Draw
cutting lines or designs on the side of the material facing towards you. Place the front edge
of the saw foot on the workpiece and align the blade with the line to be cut. Hold the jig saw
firmly, turn it on, and press down to keep the saw foot flat against the work as you slowly push
the saw into the workpiece in the direction of the cut.
Gradually increase the cutting speed, cutting close to the line (unless you want to leave stock
for finish sanding). You may have to adjust or relocate the vise or clamps as you cut to keep
the work stable. Do not force the saw, or the blade teeth may rub and wear without cutting and
the blade may break. Let the saw do most of the work. When following curves, cut slowly so
that the blade can cut across the grain. This will give you an accurate cut and will prevent the
blade from wandering.
Cutting with a Straightedge
Always use a rough-cut blade when possible.
Clamp a straightedge onto the workpiece
parallel to the line of cut and flush with the side
of the saw foot.
Either a.) first mark the line of cut and then
position the straightedge parallel and at the
same distance as between the blade and
the side edge of the foot or b.) first mark the
side edge of the foot and then clamp the
straightedge on the mark and parallel to the cut
line (Fig. 10).
As you cut, keep the saw-foot edge flush
against the straightedge and flat on the
workpiece.
Fig. 10
