Can this produce smooth clean chip-free cuts in plywood &amp; other sheetgoods, &amp; can it be used with a straight edge to keep the cut perfectly straight?
332522
Pierce, yes it can, with some care! Makita makes a small plastic insert (comes with the tool) that clips in around the blade within the foot plate. This largely eliminates chipping. I also made a four-foot guide out of angle aluminum (created a channel for both sides of the tool) that enabled me to make reasonably accurate cuts across a sheet of plywood. Am very happy with my Makita!
1589365
Yes, if you're careful and patient. I used this saw to put together a model train table for my kids and did quite a few flush cuts in the process. I have sliced things as thin as 1/8" using this saw.
1257509
I used this blade to cut plywood with my Skil circular saw and the results were great. I got almost mirror smooth cuts. Very important to set the blade depth according to the thickness of the plywood to ensure that the edges dont splinter. I even cut 84 inch long 30 degree bevel cuts in plywood with this blade in order to make some cabinet edges and had no problems. Just make sure to follow all the rules of cutting with circular saws like proper clamping and setting cutting guides, etc.
1472951
I've only used it on foam-core board but it does slice cleanly through all the layers and slice into the mat board I use to prevent the wood support from being marred. It is easy to use with a straight rail that is anchored somehow. The foam-core I use for model building. I would expect you to go through blades fairly fast but that happens any time you want super-crisp cuts with thin blades.
18820
I would think that it would depend on the blade that was being used, as far as chip-free cuts. I have not used it in that fashion. I think it would be very important to keep it fully charged as well so that the blade doesn't stall. As far as strait cuts with a straight edge it would follow the straight edge fine.
174892
I am probably not the person to ask. I used it on plexiglass. I don't know a reason why it would.not work on smooth wood....
18822
Yes, you can make clean cuts depending on the blade you're using and it's condition as well as cut straight lines using a guide (straight edge). The problem with this tool is it overheats the battery quickly draining it. So you've only got about 3-6 minutes of cutting. Love this tool but HATE that it doesn't run longer.
861300
My only experience with this dado blade is with pine and it worked flawlessly over a long period of time while I was making shiplap siding, I would imagine it would work very well with hardwoods too, plywood...not really sure. It's a very high quality blade.
1179978
I've had my cutter since late January and I use it for making cards so far its done vey well! I have also used it to cut chip board and it's still a very clean cut! I hope this helps you in your decision !
1274331
yes, i have used it to cut hardwood flooring when installing a floor level threshold to an exising floor. You do have to use a guide for a perfectly straight cut
18815
You can use a straight edge to guide the saw but it must be quite thin since when the blade is at full cutting depth there is little clearance below the motor housing. The blade that comes with the saw is quite thin and has little set to the teeth, so cuts tend to be pretty clean. However if you plan to rip an 8 ft. sheet of 3/4 inch plywood, you will be disappointed: Not enough power or battery life to work well for an app like that.
82872
While I have not attempted to cut mine, I have no confidence you would be able to get a smooth edge on the cut. My students have dropped the boards enough that several have their corners chipped. They are made of some sort of composite board. The backs are very absorbent and the fronts are of course, sealed. I know that they are not intended to be cut. Unless you desire a large quantity, you might do better at a dollar store so there is little loss if it does not cut well.
832665
I use mine every day and haven't had any problems with it at all. I build rustic furniture and the cuts are always clean and precise. I do clean it everyday with a blower and wipe it down. Great tool..
258111
I haven't done it personally, but it's definitely a great machine and should have no problem with the right blade. Cuts through thick, hard wood with no problem - probably more taxing than thin metal done slowly?
1080733
In my use this saw (using the included blade) makes relatively chip-free cuts. As you would expect from the price it is not a high precision machine. Preventing chips is largely a matter the operator's care in use. The saw is only designed to make straight, plumb cuts. If the work is kept flat and fed slow and straight the cut has minimal chipping. It is not a precision lapidary saw, however.
221184
I concur with everything that Bonnie has said, especially the length of time it holds a charge. I would add that I've cut heavy fiberglass fabric and mat, with no problems. If you need a precision cut, I would still use a straight edge for a guide.
1643737
Not to my knowledge. I do not think the saw maxi was designed for fine cut you would need for flush corners. A miter saw or a miter box with a good saw should do it. Stanley and Buck would be a good choice