Many people think they need a bench to use a circular saw safely. But is this really the case? Stick around as I dive deep into this touchy topic.
You don’t need a workbench to use a circular saw, but it is recommended to have one if you want to get the most out of your unit. A workbench provides a sturdy, level surface for your saw to rest on while cutting. It also gives you a place to store your saw when it’s not in use.
This article will help you decide whether or not you need a workbench for your circular saw. It will also give tips on how to use your saw safely and effectively.
Why Would You Need a Bench for a Circular Saw?
While you don’t need a bench for a circular saw, there are some advantages to using one.
You can cut angles more easily when you mount your saw on a bench. This is because you can swivel the blade to make bevel cuts. You can also attach a fence to your bench, giving you more control over your cuts.
A workbench will also provide a stable surface for your saw. This is important because a circular saw can vibrate quite a bit. A bench will help minimize this vibration.
Another advantage of using a workbench is that you can store your saw on it when it’s not in use. This extra working space can be used for other smaller tasks, especially if you can retract the saw on demand.
So, should you use a bench for your circular saw?
It’s up to you. A workbench is good if you want the most control over your cuts. But if you don’t have the space for a bench or don’t need the extra features it offers, you can use your saw without the bench.
How Can You Use Your Circular Saw Safely Without a Workbench?
I understand that not everyone has the space for a workbench in their workshop. However, there are ways you can use your saw safely.
First, make sure the area you’re working in is well-lit. This will help you see your cuts more clearly. I recommend using a shop light or a LED headlamp. These are usually bright enough to give you a good view of your work area.
Next, be sure to use a push stick when making rip cuts. A push stick is a long, narrow piece of wood you use to push the material you’re cutting. This helps to keep your fingers away from the blade. And you can find push sticks at most hardware stores.
Also, be extra careful when making cuts near the edge of a piece of wood. It’s easy to lose your saw when the blade is close to the edge. To avoid this, use a clamp to secure the wood to your work surface if possible. This will help prevent the wood from moving around while cutting it.
When Is It Absolutely Necessary To Use a Workbench With Your Circular Saw?
There are some instances when you don’t really need to use a workbench with your saw, but you’ll appreciate the bench more when making cross-cuts.
Cross cuts are made by cutting across the grain of wood. This can be very dangerous because the blade can easily bind in the wood. If this happens, the blade can kick back and injure you.
For this reason, it’s always best to make cross-cuts on a workbench. The bench will provide a stable surface for your saw and help prevent the blade from binding to the wood.
Another time you might need a workbench is when making cuts that are longer than the length of your blade. For example, if you’re cutting a 2×4 (0.6×1.2 m) lumber that is 8 feet (2.44 m) long, you’ll need to use a workbench. This is because the length of the cut will be too much for the saw to handle. This is especially true if you don’t have a stable surface to rest the wood while cutting.
You’ll also need to use a workbench when cutting deep because the depth of the cut can create a dangerous situation. For example, the blade can kick back and injure you.
Can You DIY a Bench?
Here’s the thing: you don’t need to buy a workbench with your circular saw. You can easily make one yourself using basic tools.
All you need is a large piece of plywood, a drill, and lumber for the legs. I recommend using 3/4-inch (1.9-cm) plywood because it’s thick and sturdy enough to hold your saw.
First, cut the plywood to the size you want using your saw. Then, drill four holes in the plywood, two on each side. These will be used to screw the plywood to your legs. You are welcome to use whatever type of legs you want. I recommend using 2×4 (0.6×1.2 m) lumber because it’s cheap and easy to find.
To make it stable, attach the legs using brackets. You can find these at most hardware stores. Just be sure to get the right size for your lumber. You can also reinforce the table with cross-braces if you want.
I also like to add a vise to my workbench. This is optional, but it’s an excellent addition if you do a lot of woodworking. A vise helps hold your workpiece in place when cutting.
Final Thoughts
A workbench is an excellent addition to any workshop, but it’s not absolutely necessary. You can use your circular saw without one if you are careful and take the proper precautions. I think the bench will make your life a lot easier if you’re doing a lot of cutting.
The best part is that you can make a foldable workbench using a sheet of plywood and some lumber. So there’s no excuse not to have one! Just be sure to take the necessary safety precautions when using your saw. And always use a push stick when making rip cuts.