241-0762
Circular Saw
For questions / comments, technical assistance or repair parts –
Please Call Toll Free: 1-866-917-4374 (M-F 8:30am-5:00pm EST).
OPERATOR’S MANUAL
WARNING:
To Reduce The Risk Of Injury, User Must Read And
Understand Operator’s Manual. Save These Instructions For Future
Reference.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Safety Symbols ......................................................... Page 2
Safety Instructions ...................................................... Page 3
Overview/Specifications ................................................. Page 8
Assembly ............................................................. Page 9
Operation ............................................................ Page 10
Maintenance .......................................................... Page 18
Troubleshooting ....................................................... Page 19
Warranty ............................................................. Page 22
Page 2
SAFETY SYMBOLS
Some of these following symbols may be used on this tool. Please study them and learn their
meaning. Proper interpretation of these symbols will allow you to operate the tool better and
more safely.
WARNING:
To ensure safety and reliability, all repairs should be performed by a
qualified service technician.
Symbol
Name
Designation / Explanation
V Volts Voltage
A Amperes Current
Hz Hertz Frequency (cycles per second)
W Watts Power
lbs Pounds Weight
.../min
Per minute Revolutions per minute (rpm)
n
0
No-load speed
Rated no-load speed of the output
spindle
∿
Alternating current Type of current
Class II construction Double insulated construction
Read instruction
manual
To reduce the risk of injury, user must
read instruction manual.
Wear safety goggles
To reduce the risk of injury, always wear
eye protection.
Page 3
The purpose of safety symbols is to attract your attention to possible dangers. The
safety symbols, and the explanations with them, deserve your careful attention and
understanding. The symbol warnings do not, by themselves, eliminate any danger. The
instructions and warnings they give are no substitutes for proper accident prevention
measures.
WARNING:
Be sure to read and understand all safety instructions in this manual,
including all safety alert symbols such as “DANGER”, “WARNING”, and “CAUTION”
before using this tool. Failure to follow all instructions listed below may result in electric
shock, fire, and/or serious personal injury.
SYMBOL MEANING
SAFETY ALERT SYMBOL: Indicates DANGER, WARNING, OR CAUTION.
May be used in conjunction with other symbols or pictographs.
DANGER:
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation, which, if not avoided,
will result in death or serious injury.
WARNING:
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION:
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided,
could result in minor or moderate injury.
NOTICE:
(Without Safety Alert Symbol) Indicates a situation that may result in property
damage.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Page 4
GERNERAL POWER TOOL SAFETY
WARNINGS
WARNING:
Read all safety
warnings, instructions, illustrations and
specifications provided with this power
tool. Failure to follow all instructions listed
below may result in electric shock, fire and/or
serious injury.
SAVE ALL WARNINGS AND INSTRUCTIONS
FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.
The term “power tool” in the warnings refers
to your mains-operated (corded) power tool
or battery-operated (cordless) power tool.
WORK AREA SAFETY
1. Keep work area clean and well lit.
Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents.
2. Do not operate power tools in explosive
atmospheres, such as in the presence of
flammable liquids, gases or dust. Power
tools create sparks which may ignite the dust
or fumes.
3. Keep children and bystanders away
while operating a power tool. Distractions
can cause you to lose control.
ELECTRICAL SAFETY
1. Power tool plugs must match the
outlet. Never modify the plug in any way.
Do not use any adapter plugs with earthed
(grounded) power tools. Unmodified plugs
and matching outlets will reduce risk of
electric shock.
2. Avoid body contact with earthed
or grounded surfaces, such as pipes,
radiators, ranges and refrigerators. There
is an increased risk of electric shock if your
body is earthed or grounded.
3. Do not expose power tools to rain or
wet conditions. Water entering a power tool
will increase the risk of electric shock.
4. Do not abuse the cord. Never use the
cord for carrying, pulling or unplugging the
power tool. Keep cord away from heat, oil,
sharp edges or moving parts. Damaged or
entangled cords increase the risk of electric
shock.
5. When operating a power tool outdoors,
use an extension cord suitable for outdoor
use. Use of a cord suitable for outdoor use
reduces the risk of electric shock.
6. If operating a power tool in a damp
location is unavoidable, use a ground fault
circuit interrupter (GFCI) protected supply.
Use of a GFCI reduces the risk of electric
shock.
PERSONAL SAFETY
1. Stay alert, watch what you are doing
and use common sense when operating a
power tool. Do not use a power tool while
you are tired or under the influence of
drugs, alcohol or medication. A moment of
inattention while operating power tools may
result in serious personal injury.
2. Use personal protective equipment.
Always wear eye protection. Protective
equipment such as a dust mask, non-skid
safety shoes, hard hat or hearing protection
used for appropriate conditions will reduce
personal injuries.
3. Prevent unintentional starting. Ensure
the switch is in the off-position before
connecting to power source and/or battery
pack, picking up or carrying the tool.
Carrying power tools with your finger on the
switch or energizing power tools that have
the switch on invites accidents.
4. Remove any adjusting key or wrench
before turning the power tool on. A wrench
or a key left attached to a rotating part of the
power tool may result in personal injury.
5. Do not overreach. Keep proper footing
and balance at all times. This enables better
control of the power tool in unexpected
situations.
6. Dress properly. Do not wear loose
clothing or jewelry. Keep your hair and
clothing away from moving parts. Loose
clothes, jewelry or long hair can be caught
in moving parts.
7. If devices are provided for the
connection of dust extraction and
collection facilities, ensure these are
connected and properly used. Use of dust
collection can reduce dust-related hazards.
8. Do not let familiarity gained from
frequent use of tools allow you to become
complacent and ignore tool safety
principles. A careless action can cause
severe injury within a fraction of a second.
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Page 5
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
POWER TOOL USE AND CARE
1. Do not force the power tool. Use the
correct power tool for your application. The
correct power tool will do the job better and
safer at the rate for which it was designed.
2. Do not use the power tool if the switch
does not turn it on and off. Any power tool
that cannot be controlled with the switch is
dangerous and must be repaired.
3. Disconnect the plug from the power
source and/or remove the battery pack,
if detachable, from the power tool before
making any adjustments, changing
accessories, or storing power tools. Such
preventive safety measures reduce the risk of
starting the power tool accidentally.
4. Store idle power tools out of the reach of
children and do not allow persons unfamiliar
with the power tool or these instructions
to operate the power tool. Power tools are
dangerous in the hands of untrained users.
5. Maintain power tools and accessories.
Check for misalignment or binding of
moving parts, breakage of parts and
any other condition that may affect the
power tool’s operation. If damaged, have
the power tool repaired before use. Many
accidents are caused by poorly maintained
power tools.
6. Keep cutting tools sharp and clean.
Properly maintained cutting tools with sharp
cutting edges are less likely to bind and are
easier to control.
7. Use the power tool, accessories
and tool bits etc. in accordance with
these instructions, taking into account
the working conditions and the work to
be performed. Use of the power tool for
operations different from those intended
could result in a hazardous situation.
8. Keep handles and grasping surfaces
dry, clean and free from oil and grease.
Slippery handles and grasping surfaces do
not allow for safe handling and control of the
tool in unexpected situations.
SERVICE
1. Have your power tool serviced by a
qualified repair person using only identical
replacement parts. This will ensure that the
safety of the power tool is maintained.
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR
ALL SAWS
CUTTING PROCEDURES
DANGER:
Keep hands away from
cutting area and the blade. Keep your
second hand on auxiliary handle, or motor
housing. If both hands are holding the saw,
they cannot be cut by the blade.
1. Do not reach underneath the
workpiece. The guard cannot protect you
from the blade below the workpiece.
2. Adjust the cutting depth to the
thickness of the workpiece. Less than a full
tooth of the blade teeth should be visible
below the workpiece.
3. Never hold the workpiece in your hands
or across your leg while cutting. Secure
the workpiece to a stable platform. It is
important to support the work properly to
minimize body exposure, blade binding, or
loss of control.
4. Hold the power tool by insulated gripping
surfaces, when performing an operation
where the cutting tool may contact hidden
wiring or its own cord. Contact with a “live”
wire will also make exposed metal parts
of the power tool “live” and could give the
operator an electric shock.
5. When ripping, always use a rip fence
or straight edge guide. This improves the
accuracy of cut and reduces the chance of
blade binding.
6. Always use blades with correct size
and shape (diamond versus round) of
arbor holes. Blades that do not match the
mounting hardware of the saw will run off-
center, causing loss of control.
7. Never use damaged or incorrect blade
washers or bolt. The blade washers and
bolt were specially designed for your saw,
for optimum performance and safety of
operation.
FURTHER SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS FOR ALL SAWS
Page 6
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
KICKBACK CAUSES AND
RELATED WARNINGS
Kickback is a sudden reaction to a pinched,
jammed or misaligned saw blade, causing
an uncontrolled saw to lift up and out of the
workpiece toward the operator;
When the blade is pinched or jammed
tightly by the kerf closing down, the blade
stalls and the motor reaction drives the unit
rapidly back toward the operator;
If the blade becomes twisted or misaligned
in the cut, the teeth at the back edge of the
blade can dig into the top surface of the
wood causing the blade to climb out of the
kerf and jump back toward the operator.
Kickback is the result of saw misuse and/
or incorrect operating procedures or
conditions and can be avoided by taking
proper precautions as given below.
1. Maintain a firm grip with both hands on
the saw and position your arms to resist
kickback forces. Position your body to
either side of the blade, but not in line with
the blade. Kickback could cause the saw
to jump backwards, but kickback forces
can be controlled by the operator, if proper
precautions are taken.
2. 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.
3. When restarting a saw in the workpiece,
center the saw blade in the kerf so that
the saw teeth are not engaged into the
material. If a saw blade binds, it may walk
up or kickback from the workpiece as the
saw is restarted.
4. 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.
5. Do not use dull or damaged blades.
Unsharpened or improperly set blades
produce narrow kerf causing excessive
friction, blade binding and kickback.
6. Blade depth and bevel adjusting
locking levers must be tight and secure
before making the cut. If blade adjustment
shifts while cutting, it may cause binding
and kickback.
7. Use extra caution when sawing into
existing walls or other blind areas. The
protruding blade may cut objects that can
cause kickback.
LOWER GUARD FUNCTION
1. Check the lower guard for proper
closing before each use. Do not operate
the saw if the lower guard does not move
freely and close instantly. Never clamp or
tie the lower guard into the open position.
If the saw is accidentally dropped, the 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.
2. 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 build-up of debris.
3. The lower guard may be retracted
manually only for special cuts such as
“plunge cuts” and “compound cuts”.
Raise the lower guard by the retracting
handle and as soon as the blade enters the
material, the lower guard must be released.
For all other sawing, the lower guard should
operate automatically.
4. Always observe that the lower guard is
covering the blade before placing the 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.
DANGER:
People with electronic
devices, such as pacemakers, should
consult their physician(s) before using this
product. Operation of electrical equipment
in close proximity to a heart pacemaker
could cause interference or failure of the
pacemaker.
Page 7
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING:
• Some dust created by power sanding,
sawing, grinding, drilling, and other
construction activities contains
chemicals known to the state of
California to cause cancer, birth
defects, or other reproductive harm.
Some examples of these chemicals
are:
1. Lead from lead-based paints
2. Crystalline silica from bricks, cement,
and other masonry products
3. Arsenic and chromium from
chemically-treated lumber
• Your risk from these exposures varies,
depending upon how often you do this
type of work. To reduce your exposure
to these chemicals:
1. Work in a well-ventilated area.
2. Work with approved safety equipment,
such as dust masks that are specially
designed to filter out microscopic
particles.
3. Avoid prolonged contact with dust
from power sanding, sawing, grinding,
drilling, and other construction
activities. Wear protective clothing
and wash exposed areas with soap
and water. Allowing dust to get into
your mouth or eyes or to lie on the skin
may promote absorption of harmful
chemicals.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
Page 8
Hook
Bevel-Angle Scale
LED Work Light
Blade
Depth Scale
Depth-
Adjustment Lever
Trigger Switch
Main Handle
Upper Blade Guard
Lower-Blade-
Guard Lever
Blade Wrench
SPECIFICATIONS
Rated Power Input 15.0A
Rated Voltage 120V~, 60Hz
No-load Speed 6200 /min
Blade Diameter 7-1/4" (184mm)
Blade Arbor Diameter 5/8" (16 mm)
Cutting Depth at 90° 2-3/8" (60.3 mm)
Cutting Depth at 45° 1-13/16" (46 mm)
Bevel Angle Adjustable 0–56°
Tool Weight 10 lbs. 12 oz.
OVERVIEW
Lower Blade Guard
45
°
Quick-Adjustment Block
Bevel-Adjustment
Lever
Spindle-Lock Button
Auxiliary Handle
Page 9
ASSEMBLY
WARNING:
If any part is broken
or missing, DO NOT connect to power
source or operate the tool until the broken
or missing part is replaced. Failure to do
so could result in possible serious injury.
WARNING:
Do not attempt to
modify this tool or create accessories not
recommended for use with this tool. Any
such alteration or modification is misuse
and could result in a hazardous condition
leading to possible serious injury.
WARNING:
Your tool should
never be connected to power source
when you are assembling parts, making
adjustments, cleaning, or when it is not in
use. Disconnecting the tool will prevent
accidental starting, which could cause
serious personal injury.
CONTENTS
Corded circular saw, 24-teeth carbide-
tipped saw blade, blade wrench, screw,
vacuum adaptor, edge guide, and instruction
manual.
UNPACKING
1. Carefully remove the tool and any
accessories from the carton. Make sure
that all items listed in the packing list are
included.
2. Inspect the tool carefully to make sure
that no breakage or damage occurred
during shipping.
3. Do not discard the packing material
until you have carefully inspected and
satisfactorily operated the tool.
Page 10
TO INSTALL OR CHANGE THE
BLADE (FIG. 1)
FIG. 1
1. Unplug the circular saw from the power
supply.
2. Depress the spindle-lock button, place
the blade wrench on the blade bolt and
move it back and forth until you feel the
spindle-lock button depress deeper.
This action locks the blade in position
so the blade bolt can be removed.
3. With the spindle-lock button firmly
depressed, turn the blade bolt
counterclockwise to loosen it.
4. Use the lower-blade-guard lever to raise
the lower blade guard and hold it in the
raised position with the lever.
5. Remove the blade bolt, the outer
washer, and the blade.
6. The remaining, inner washer, that fits
around the spindle shaft, does not need
to be removed.
7. Clean the spindle, washers, upper
guard, and lower guard to remove any
dirt and sawdust.
8. Make sure that the blade teeth and the
arrow on the blade point in the same
direction as the arrow on the upper
guard. Slide the new saw blade inside
the upper blade guard, onto the spindle
shaft and against the inner washer.
9. Replace the outer washer.
10. Depress and hold the spindle-lock
button as you replace the blade and
hand-tighten the bolt in a clockwise
direction. Use the blade wrench to
tighten the blade bolt securely.
11. Return the blade wrench into the
storage area. Make sure that the side of
the wrench with the hexagon is pointing
up.
NOTICE: Do not use a blade wrench with
a longer handle, since it may lead to over
tightening of the blade bolt.
WARNING:
Be sure to wear
protective work gloves while handling
a saw blade. The sharp teeth can injure
unprotected hands.
LED WORK LIGHT (FIG. 2)
The LED work light turns on automatically
when the tool is plugged into a power
source. This provides additional light on the
surface of the workpiece for operation in
lower-light conditions.
FIG. 2
LED
Work
Light
OPERATION
Blade
Outer
Washer
Blade
Bolt
Blade
Wrench
Page 11
OPERATION
WRENCH STORAGE (FIG. 5)
Wrench storage is provided on the tool.
Wrench is fully seated when the second lock
detent is engaged.
NOTICE: Wrench needs to be inserted with
the correct orientation. Damage to work
piece could occur if inserted incorrectly.
FIG. 5
Blade Wrench
Base
ELECTRIC BRAKE
The saw has an electric brake to quickly
stop the blade rotation. The electric brake
engages when the trigger switch is released.
When the brake is functioning properly,
sparks may be visible through the vent slots
in the motor housing. This is normal and is
the action of the brake.
BLADE GUARD SYSTEM (FIG. 6)
FIG. 6
Lower blade
guard is in the
up position
when making a
cut.
HOOK (FIG. 3)
Your tool is equipped with a convenient
hook. Use the hook to hang the saw from
a rafter or beam or other similar secure
structure for temporary storage during work.
Recommended lumber size to support the
saw with the hook is 2x4. To use, simply lift
up hook until it snaps into the open position.
When not in use for hanging, always lower
hook until it snaps into the closed position.
VACUUM ADAPTOR (FIG. 4)
Your tool is equipped with a vacuum adaptor
(Ø1-1/4") for connecting a vacuum cleaner.
1. To attach the vacuum adaptor to the
saw, insert it into the slot of the upper
blade guard and then use the screw
(included) to secure it.
2. To remove the vacuum adaptor from
the saw, just loosen the screw on the
vacuum adaptor.
FIG. 4
Vacuum Adaptor
Screw Holes
FIG. 3
Hook
CORRECT
INCORRECT
Page 12
The lower blade guard attached to your
circular saw is there for your protection and
safety. It should never be altered for any
reason. If it becomes damaged or begins to
return slowly or sluggishly, do not operate
the saw until the blade guard has been
repaired or replaced. Always leave the guard
in its correct operating position when using
the saw.
WARNING:
• Do not allow familiarity with the circular
saw to cause a lack of alertness. A
fraction of a second of carelessness is
enough to cause severe injury.
• Disconnect the circular saw from the
power source when you are assembling
parts, making adjustments, installing or
removing cutting blade, cleaning, or when
it is not in use. Disconnecting the circular
saw will prevent accidental starting, which
could cause serious personal injury.
• When using the saw, always stay alert
and exercise control. Do not remove the
saw from the workpiece while the blade is
moving.
DANGER:
• When sawing through a workpiece, the
lower blade guard does not cover the
blade on the underside of the workpiece.
Since the blade is exposed on the
underside of the workpiece, keep hands
and fingers away from the cutting area.
Any part of your body coming in contact
with a moving blade will result in serious
injury.
NOTICE: Never use the saw when the
guard is not operating properly. The guard
should be checked for correct operation
before each use. If you drop your saw,
check the lower blade guard and bumper
for damage at all depth settings before
using.
SAW BLADES
All saw blades need to be kept clean, sharp
and properly set in order to cut efficiently.
Using a dull blade places a heavy load
on the saw and increases the danger of
kickback. Keep extra blades on hand, so
sharp blades are always available. Gum and
wood pitch hardened on the blade slows the
saw down. Use gum and pitch remover, hot
water or kerosene to remove them. Do not
use gasoline.
NOTICE: The circular saw is mainly
intended for cutting wood. It’s
recommended to use the blade that is
applicable for the wood.
WARNING:
Do not use abrasive
blades with the circular saw. Abrasive
dust may cause lower guard to not
operate properly.
KICKBACK (FIG. 7)
FIG. 7
DIRECTION OF CUT
Kickback occurs when the blade stalls
rapidly and the saw is driven back towards
the operator. Blade stalling is caused by any
action that pinches the blade in the wood.
Loss of control can lead to serious injury.
WARNING:
Use only 7-1/4" saw
blades rated 6200/min (RPM) or greater.
NEVER use a blade that is so thick that
it prevents the outer blade washer from
engaging with the flat side of the spindle.
Using a blade not designed for the saw
may result in serious personal injury and
property damage.
OPERATION
KICKBACK
Blade is
set too
deep
Correct
blade
depth
Page 13
OPERATION
• If the blade comes in contact with the
workpiece before it reaches full speed,
it could cause the saw to “kickback”
towards you, which could result in serious
injury.
TO GUARD AGAINST KICKBACK,
FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS
(FIG. 8, FIG. 9)
FIG. 8
No more than 1/4"
FIG. 9
Correct Support
1. Keep the blade at the correct depth
setting. The depth setting should not
exceed 1/4
"
below the material being
cut (FIG. 8).
2. Inspect the workpiece for knots or nails
before cutting. Never saw into a knot or
nail.
3. Make straight cuts. Always use a
straight edge guide when rip cutting.
This helps prevent twisting of the blade.
4. Use clean, sharp and properly set
blades. Never make cuts with dull
blades.
5. Support the workpiece properly before
beginning a cut (FIG. 9).
6. Use steady, even pressure when making
a cut. Never force a cut.
7. Do not cut warped or wet lumber.
8. Hold the saw firmly with both hands and
keep your body in a balanced position
so as to resist the forces if kickback
should occur.
WARNING:
To avoid kickback,
release the trigger switch immediately
if blade binds or saw stalls. Kickback
could cause you to lose control of
the saw. Loss of control can lead to
serious injury.
DEPTH OF CUT ADJUSTMENTS
Always keep the correct blade-depth
setting. The correct blade-depth setting for
all cuts should not exceed 1/4
"
. below the
material to be cut. Excess blade depth will
increase the chance of kickback and cause
the cut to be rough. One blade tooth below
the material to be cut works best for efficient
cutting action and minimum splintering.
TO ADJUST THE CUTTING
DEPTH (FIG. 10)
FIG. 10
1. Unplug the circular saw from the power
supply.
2. Raise the depth-adjustment lever to
release it.
Depth
Scale
Depth-Adjustment
Lever
Page 14
OPERATION
45–56° bevel setting
1. Unplug the circular saw from the power
supply.
2. Loosen the bevel-adjustment lever by
turning the lever counterclockwise.
3. First pull out the 45° quick-adjustment
block, then you can tilt the base to
the desired setting on the bevel scale
(45–56°).
4. Tighten the bevel-adjustment lever by
turning the lever clockwise.
0° bevel stop
The saw has a 0° bevel stop that has been
adjusted before shipment to assure that the
blade is perpendicular to the base at the 0°
bevel setting.
NOTICE: The saw is equipped with a 45°
quick-adjustment block for 45° bevel
cutting. Tilt the base as far as it will go,
the indicator is now at the 45° setting.
WARNING:
Attempting a bevel
cut without fully tightening the bevel-
adjustment lever can result in serious
injury.
TO CHECK 0° BEVEL STOP
(FIG. 12)
FIG. 12
1. Unplug the circular saw from the power
supply.
2. Using a carpenter’s square (available
separately), make sure that the saw
blade is perpendicular to the base of the
saw.
3. Hold the base shoe against the
workpiece and raise or lower the saw
until the indicator mark on the saw
aligns with the desired depth on the
depth scale.
4. Lower the depth-adjustment lever to
lock it into position.
BEVEL ADJUSTMENTS
The angle of cut can be adjusted to any
desired setting between 0°and 56°.
Because blade thicknesses vary and
different angles require different settings,
always make a trial cut in scrap material
along a guideline to determine how much
you should offset the guideline on the
workpiece to be cut.
TO ADJUST BEVEL SETTING
(FIG. 11)
FIG. 11
Bevel-
Adjustment
Lever
Bevel Angle Scale
0–45° bevel setting
1. Unplug the circular saw from the power
supply.
2. Loosen the bevel-adjustment lever by
turning the lever counterclockwise.
3. Tilt the base until the bevel indicator
reaches the desired setting on the bevel
scale.
4. Tighten the bevel-adjustment lever by
turning the lever clockwise.
45° Quick-
Adjustment Block
Carpenter’s
Square
Blade
Base
Page 15
OPERATION
TO ADJUST 0° BEVEL STOP
(FIG. 13)
Adjusting
Screw
FIG. 13
1. Unplug the circular saw from the power
supply.
2. Loosen the bevel-adjustment lever.
3. Use a 2.5mm hex wrench (available
separately) to turn the adjusting screw
until the base is perpendicular to the
saw blade.
WARNING:
Attempting to make
cuts without the bevel-adjustment lever
securely tightened can result in serious
injury.
TURNING THE SAW ON AND OFF
(FIG. 14)
FIG. 14
Trigger
Switch
1. Connect the power cord of your circular
saw to a standard power outlet.
2. To turn the saw ON, depress the trigger
switch.
3. To turn the tool OFF, release the trigger
switch.
OPERATING THE SAW
It is important to understand the correct
method for operating the saw.
Refer to the figures and instructions in this
section to learn the correct and incorrect
ways for handling the saw.
DANGER:
• When lifting the saw from the workpiece,
the blade is exposed on the underside
of the saw until the lower blade guard
closes. Make sure the lower blade guard
is closed before setting the saw down.
WARNING:
• Allow the blade to come to a complete
stop before setting the circular saw down.
• To make sawing easier and safer, always
maintain proper control of the saw.
Loss of control could cause an accident
resulting in possible serious injury.
• Always clamp and support the
workpiece securely. Always maintain
proper control of the saw. Failure to clamp
and support the workpiece and loss of
control of the saw could result in serious
injury.
TO MAKE THE BEST POSSIBLE
CUT:
1. Always use your saw with your hands,
with one hand on the main handle and
operating the trigger switch and the
other hand on the auxiliary handle. Avoid
placing your hand on the workpiece
while making a cut.
2. Position your body to either side of the
blade, but not in line with the blade.
3. Support the workpiece near the cut.
Page 16
OPERATION
4. Clamp the workpiece securely so that
the workpiece will not move during the
cut.
5. Always place the saw weight on the
workpiece that is supported, not on the
“cut off” piece.
6. Place the workpiece with the “good”
side down.
7. Draw a guideline along the desired line
of cut before beginning your cut.
NOTICE: The good side of the workpiece
is the side where appearance is important.
INSTALLING AND USING THE
EDGE GUIDE (FIG. 15)
FIG. 15
Always use an edge guide when making
long or wide rip cuts with your saw. You
can use either a straight edge or use an
edge guide.
1. Unplug the circular saw from the power
supply.
2. Position the edge guide so that the arm
with the ruler side is facing up. Slide
the arm of the edge guide through the
mounting slots at the front of the saw
base.
3. Adjust the edge guide to the desired
width of cut.
4. Tighten the edge-guide locking knob.
5. When using an edge guide, position the
face of the edge guide firmly against the
edge of the workpiece. This will help
make a true cut without binding the
blade. The edge of the workpiece must
be straight for the cut to be straight.
Use caution to prevent the blade from
binding in the cut.
NOTICE:
• The edge guide can be used on the left
or right side of the blade (FIG. 15).
• Do not bind the blade in the cut. It
could cause the saw to “kickback”
towards you, which could result in
serious injury.
MAKING CROSS CUTS AND RIP
CUTS (FIG. 16)
FIG. 16
0° Indicator
When making a cross cut or rip cut, align
your line of cut with the center of the
notch by the 0° indicator. Because blade
thicknesses vary, always make a trial cut
in scrap material along a guideline to
determine how much, if any, the guideline
must be offset to produce an accurate cut.
Edge-Guide
Locking Knob
Edge Guide
Line of Cut
Page 17
MAKING RIP CUTS (FIG. 17)
FIG. 17
Straight
Edge
C-Clamp
The combination blade provided with your
saw is for both cross cuts and rip cuts.
Ripping is cutting lengthwise along the grain
of the wood.
When rip cutting a large sheet, use a straight
edge (available separately).
1. Secure the workpiece.
2. Use C-clamps (available separately) to
clamp a straight edge to the workpiece.
3. Carefully guide the saw along the
straight edge to achieve a straight rip
cut.
MAKING A BEVEL CUT (FIG. 18)
FIG. 18
45° Indicator
1. Secure workpiece with clamps.
2. Draw a line of cut on the workpiece.
3. Unplug the saw.
OPERATION
4. Adjust and secure the saw at desired
bevel angle.
5. Connect the power cord of your circular
saw to a standard power outlet.
6. When making a bevel cut, hold the saw
firmly with both hands.
7. Rest the front edge of the base on the
workpiece. Depress the trigger switch
to start the saw. Allow the saw to reach
full speed before attempting to make a
cut.
8. After completing the cut, release the
trigger switch and allow the blade to
come to a complete stop. After the
blade has stopped, remove the saw
from the workpiece.
NOTICE: There is a notch in the saw base
to help you line up the blade with the line of
cut when making 45° bevel cuts. Align your
line of cut with the center of the notch by
the 45° indicator.
Guideline
Workpiece
Line of Cut
Page 18
1. Inspect the corded circular saw, the
trigger switch and the accessories for
damage.
2. Check for damaged, missing, or worn
parts.
3. Check for loose screws, misalignment
or binding of moving parts, or any other
condition that may affect the operation.
4. If abnormal vibration or noise occurs,
turn the tool off immediately and have
the problem corrected before further
use.
5. Unplug the tool from power source
before cleaning or performing any
maintenance. Using compressed air
may be the most effective cleaning
method. Always wear safety goggles
when cleaning tools using compressed
air.
WARNING:
• Always wear safety goggles or safety
glasses with side shields during power
tool operations, or when blowing dust. If
operation is dusty, also wear a dust mask.
• Do not at any time let brake fluids,
gasoline, petroleum-based products,
penetrating oils, etc. come in contact
with plastic parts. Chemicals can damage,
weaken or destroy plastic, which may result
in serious personal injury.
• When servicing, use only identical
replacement parts. The use of any other
parts may create a hazard or cause damage
to the product.
• Use only accessories that are
recommended for this circular saw by
the manufacturer. Accessories that may
be suitable for one tool may become
hazardous when used with another tool.
• Maintain tools with care. Keep cutting
tools sharp and clean. Properly maintained
tools with sharp cutting edges are less
likely to bind and are easier to control.
MAINTENANCE
• To ensure safety and reliability, all
repairs should be performed by a qualified
service technician.
Page 19
TROUBLESHOOTING
PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSE SOLUTION
The motor does not start. The tool is not
connected to a power
source.
Connect the tool to a power
source.
The blade does not follow a
straight line.
1. Teeth are dull. This
is caused by hitting a
hard object such as a
nail, dulling teeth on
one side. The blade
tends to cut to the side
with the sharpest teeth.
1. Replace with a new blade.
2. Edge guide or
straight edge is not
being used.
2. Use an edge guide or
straight edge.
The blade binds or smokes from
friction.
1. Blade is dull. 1. Replace with a new blade.
2. Blade is on
backwards.
2. Install the blade correctly.
3. Blade is bent. 3. Replace with a new blade.
4. Workpiece is not
properly supported.
4. Clamp the workpiece
correctly and tightly.
5. Incorrect blade is
being used.
5. Use the correct blade.
Page 20
NOTES
Page 21
NOTES
Page 22
SAVE YOUR RECEIPTS
THIS WARRANTY IS VOID WITHOUT THEM
Circular Saw
WARRANTY
90-DAY MONEY BACK GUARANTEE:
This MASTERFORCE
®
brand power tool carries our 90-DAY Money Back
Guarantee. If you are not completely satisfied with your MASTERFORCE
®
brand
power tool for any reason within ninety (90) days from the date of purchase, return
the tool with your original receipt to any MENARDS
®
retail store, and we will provide
you a refund – no questions asked.
3-YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY:
This MASTERFORCE
®
brand power tool carries our famous No Hassle 3-Year
Limited Warranty to the original purchaser. If, during normal use, this
MASTERFORCE
®
power tool breaks or fails due to a defect in material or
workmanship within three (3) years from the date of original purchase, simply bring
this tool with the original sales receipt back to your nearest MENARDS
®
retail store.
At its discretion, MASTERFORCE
®
agrees to have the tool or any defective part(s)
repaired or replaced with the same or similar MASTERFORCE
®
product or part
free of charge, within the stated warranty period, when returned by the original
purchaser with original sales receipt. Not withstanding the foregoing, this limited
warranty does not cover any damage that has resulted from abuse or misuse of
the Merchandise. This warranty: (1) excludes expendable parts including but not
limited to blades, brushes, belts, bits, light bulbs, and/or batteries; (2) shall be void
if this tool is used for commercial and/or rental purposes; and (3) does not cover any
losses, injuries to persons/property or costs. This warranty does give you specific
legal rights and you may have other rights, which vary from state to state. Be
careful, tools are dangerous if improperly used or maintained. Seller’s employees
are not qualified to advise you on the use of this Merchandise. Any oral
representation(s) made will not be binding on seller or its employees. The rights
under this limited warranty are to the original purchaser of the Merchandise and
may not be transferred to any subsequent owner. This limited warranty is in lieu of all
warranties, expressed or implied including warranties or merchantability and fitness
for a particular purpose. Seller shall not be liable for any special, incidental, or
consequential damages. The sole exclusive remedy against the seller will be for the
replacement of any defects as provided herein, as long as the seller is willing or able
to replace this product or is willing to refund the purchase price as provided above.
For insurance purposes, seller is not allowed to demonstrate any of these power
tools for you.
For questions / comments, technical assistance or repair parts –
Please Call Toll Free: 1-866-917-4374 (M-F 8:30am-5:00pm EST).
10/2020
© 2020 Menard, Inc., Eau Claire, WI 54703
