Saws and What to Look For
When you think of power tools, chances are that one of the first things you think of are mechanically powered saws. And really, is there anything more fitting to the mental image the phrase "power tools" conjures? Saws are sheer power. Naturally, when you are dealing with something as powerful and potentially dangerous as a power saw, you want to be sure you have a quality product. There are many manufacturers out there, but there are a few that really stand out from the crowd. Let's take a look at a few of them.
Well start with Tanaka Power Equipment. One of Tanaka's main strengths is their commitment to producing two-stroke powered products, which ensures outstanding throttle response. Your power will not get cut, your tools will be lightweight and well-balanced, and you will never have to worry about whether the engine will hold up. Additionally, you will not have to keep adjusting valves or filling the oil reservoir, so a Tanaka tool means you will have a more efficient use of your time, thus being more productive and profitable. Tanaka was also the first two-stroke manufacturer that certified to the strict emissions standards for California. Their unique PureFire engine is a definite standout in the world of power tools.
Another company to take note of is North American Tile Tool Company, or Nattco. It is formed nearly twenty years ago and is privately owned. Nattco is the largest ceramic tile manufacturer in the United States, and they provide for over forty percent of the do-it-yourself market. They stay on top because of their progressive innovation, service and quality. Their tools are specially crafted for work with wood, tile, vinyl and marble.
Saws are large tools that can potentially be very dangerous. Obviously, when working with saws, there are a number of rules to follow for your safety and the safety of those around you. We will mostly cover rules you should follow when operating a table saw. First, do not wear gloves when using a table saw. Have you ever tried to zip a zipper, tie a knot, or do anything requiring dexterity or the sense of touch? Then you know how difficult it is to do even these simple tasks. It is for the same reason that you should work barehanded with a saw. It may seem counter-intuitive, but you will have much more control over your tactile sense, thus it will help you avoid losing your grip or slipping. Loose gloves are also a prime target for a rotating blade.
The second rule to remember is to keep the floor in front of the saw clear- yes, this means even of cut-offs and sawdust. You do not want to slip on something and fall into a saw, running or not. The effect of a running saw is obviously tragic, but a dormant one can cause grave injuries as well.
Third, you should always wear appropriate protective gear for your eyes and ears. Saws always carry the chance of projectiles, and the last place you want them "projecting" is into your eyes. Make sure you always wear safety goggles. The one time you do not may be the one time you needed to, so don't take the risk. Less frequently remembered, but just as important, is the protection of your ears. Hearing loss is a gradual process, so you probably will not notice damage until it is too late. Prevent this by wearing proper ear protection every time.
The rest of your clothing deserves a mention as well. Avoid long-sleeved shirts, as these can get caught in the blade. Do not wear anything that presents an opportunity for the blade to catch it. This includes things like ties, jewelry, loose fitting clothing. Not only would the saw destroy whatever it was that got caught, but it could also pull you into the blade before you realize what has happened. Keep good balance by standing with your feet far enough apart, and make sure your shoes have non-slip soles so you do not have to worry about slipping around and can keep your focus where it belongs- on the saw.
As for operation, always make sure that the blade is no longer moving before you make any adjustments to it. When you are adjusting things, your hands are going to be very close to the blade, and if it is moving even a bit, your hands should be nowhere near it. After making any adjustments or changes, slowly spin the wheel with your hands and without power to make sure nothing is blocking its range of motion.
With these manufacturers and safety guidelines, your experience with saws is sure to be a good one.
Well start with Tanaka Power Equipment. One of Tanaka's main strengths is their commitment to producing two-stroke powered products, which ensures outstanding throttle response. Your power will not get cut, your tools will be lightweight and well-balanced, and you will never have to worry about whether the engine will hold up. Additionally, you will not have to keep adjusting valves or filling the oil reservoir, so a Tanaka tool means you will have a more efficient use of your time, thus being more productive and profitable. Tanaka was also the first two-stroke manufacturer that certified to the strict emissions standards for California. Their unique PureFire engine is a definite standout in the world of power tools.
Another company to take note of is North American Tile Tool Company, or Nattco. It is formed nearly twenty years ago and is privately owned. Nattco is the largest ceramic tile manufacturer in the United States, and they provide for over forty percent of the do-it-yourself market. They stay on top because of their progressive innovation, service and quality. Their tools are specially crafted for work with wood, tile, vinyl and marble.
Saws are large tools that can potentially be very dangerous. Obviously, when working with saws, there are a number of rules to follow for your safety and the safety of those around you. We will mostly cover rules you should follow when operating a table saw. First, do not wear gloves when using a table saw. Have you ever tried to zip a zipper, tie a knot, or do anything requiring dexterity or the sense of touch? Then you know how difficult it is to do even these simple tasks. It is for the same reason that you should work barehanded with a saw. It may seem counter-intuitive, but you will have much more control over your tactile sense, thus it will help you avoid losing your grip or slipping. Loose gloves are also a prime target for a rotating blade.
The second rule to remember is to keep the floor in front of the saw clear- yes, this means even of cut-offs and sawdust. You do not want to slip on something and fall into a saw, running or not. The effect of a running saw is obviously tragic, but a dormant one can cause grave injuries as well.
Third, you should always wear appropriate protective gear for your eyes and ears. Saws always carry the chance of projectiles, and the last place you want them "projecting" is into your eyes. Make sure you always wear safety goggles. The one time you do not may be the one time you needed to, so don't take the risk. Less frequently remembered, but just as important, is the protection of your ears. Hearing loss is a gradual process, so you probably will not notice damage until it is too late. Prevent this by wearing proper ear protection every time.
The rest of your clothing deserves a mention as well. Avoid long-sleeved shirts, as these can get caught in the blade. Do not wear anything that presents an opportunity for the blade to catch it. This includes things like ties, jewelry, loose fitting clothing. Not only would the saw destroy whatever it was that got caught, but it could also pull you into the blade before you realize what has happened. Keep good balance by standing with your feet far enough apart, and make sure your shoes have non-slip soles so you do not have to worry about slipping around and can keep your focus where it belongs- on the saw.
As for operation, always make sure that the blade is no longer moving before you make any adjustments to it. When you are adjusting things, your hands are going to be very close to the blade, and if it is moving even a bit, your hands should be nowhere near it. After making any adjustments or changes, slowly spin the wheel with your hands and without power to make sure nothing is blocking its range of motion.
With these manufacturers and safety guidelines, your experience with saws is sure to be a good one.
