Don't Try This DANGEROUS CUTTING TECHNIQUE! (Here's How To PLUNGE CUT W/ Circular Saw Instead!)

[@paulcarey1708]

This is such a great channel... practical, no gimmicks, and I especially appreciate the fact safety is always there... sometimes front and center as with this video, or in the background of other videos... but never too far away.

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

Thank you, Paul! It’s always been one of my top priorities, and always will be 🙂

[@RickieBeubie]

totally agree, straight to the point, helping to save our fingers, super clear explantations and demonstrations → total gold

[@Bomtombadi1]

@@TheHonestCarpenter hey, just letting you know, there’s someone pretending to be you spamming your channel. They’ve sent several “you’ve won,” messages

[@mrgeorgejetson]

Totally agree. Also, he's got the best theme music on KZbin.

[@PrimeSuperboy]

I'm not exaggerating when I say this but yesterday I had to do several plunge cuts into plywood and I used the exact method you described. Measure the depth. Pivot on the plate. Go slow. Lift your cut material off the surface. Everything worked perfectly.

[@B-Blues]

Grateful for your channel-especially for the videos regarding safe techniques. Safety is often neglected in this line of work. We get confident using our shortcuts when accidents don't occur. Gives us a false sense of security, and we stop being careful. As soon as that happens, injury becomes a matter of 'when' rather than 'if'. Sure, shortcuts potentially save time, but they can also take things that time won't give us back. Looking forward to the next one.

[@slatsgrobneck7515]

And for someone like me that doesn't use a circ saw regularly, knowing the safe way to do things is critical. I don't want to 'learn the hard way'. lol

[@HungLikeScrat]

As a DIYer, I've done the loose plate method once. It worked, but something about it didn't seem right to me. I figured out the better method on my own. I'm glad you're putting this kinda info out there.

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

Yep, there’s something just insecure-feeling about it Bruce! One of those things you can’t pinpoint until a really bad kick happens when you’re right in the middle of a cut 😬

[@bigbob9702]

First and only time I’ve ever seen this technique is on another KZbin channel. I started as an apprentice in 1972. Id never seen this and it really made me think. The carpenter doing it was very comfortable with the technique and obviously had been doing it for years. I tried it but did not like it. I don’t frame so much now anyway I build cabinets and do finish work. Love your channel.

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

Thank you, Bob! That’s how I felt about it when I first tried it-just didn’t feel quite right. I appreciate you watching and writing in!

[@aluliasz8304]

Good video, I'm a 23 year pro and your advice is right on. Loose plate is not only dangerous, You can damage expensive material. Exactly how I teach my guys to plunge cut.

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

Good to hear, Al!

[@ichoose7548]

Thank you for your insight. I must say that I don’t perform a lot of this type of work but am a diy type of guy and always feel more confident after having watched your videos. Appreciate the safety

[@TiffMcGiff]

I just went out and got the Makita plunging track saw a couple of years ago. My favorite tool in the shop by far.

[@T_Jonesy]

Love your safety tips. Of course my heart is always in my throat when you demonstrate what not to do. Can't even imagine the number of DIYers who have been hurt with by improper use of cutting tools. I realize now that I was doing a bunch of unsafe things with my table saw. I'm so grateful I didn't irreparably harm myself before I found out how to execute a proper cut.

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

Thank you, Jonesy! I’m really glad the tips are helpful-and that you’ve remained safe this far. Keep it up in 2023!

[@peterbarlow8912]

If you run you cut lines out beyond the corners of your cutout it’s easier to see where to stop cutting. Sometimes after making a the initial cuts I lower the blade to get closer to the corners after making sure there is clearance. Haven’t tried the loose shoe trick but you definitely want the toe of the shoe registered on the material.

[@Bob-vb8lc]

I have never done loose plate cutting and it never occurred to me to even attempt it. I plunge cut the safe way that you mentioned. Thanks for the tips. I love this channel.

[@joepromedio]

In 1976 I joined the Carpenters Union and began framing tract homes in So Cal. Back then everyone used the Skillsaw 77 with guard held up with a 16d nail. No hard hats. In the summer we all wore shorts and tennis shoes. No handrails. We walked the tops of the walls for rolling joists and setting beams and rafters. I did this for 14 years. After that I was a Licensed Contractor until 2013. I am very glad to see that today all that has changed.

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

I’ve seen a LOT of that same stuff myself, Joe. I too am glad safety is getting a bit more of a look these days!

[@allenjay6065]

I make plunge cuts when needed. Not a problem if you set the saw on the material to be cut, adjust the bottom of the blade to be 1/4 " below the material, and anchor/set the plate. Carefully line up the blade with the cutting line, hold the front edge of the plate against the material firmly and press the blade into the material. I don't think anyone leaves the plate unanchored when cutting.

[@maddkatter7771]

Spot on advice! I'm a professional carpenter and remodeler, and I couldn't agree more with everything you said in regards to plunge cutting! Play it safe y'all, some things in life are worth the risk, playing games with circular saws isn't one of them!

[@BaddDukk]

I have used a circular saw, both casually and professionally, for over 30 years; often on sheet goods and occasionally requiring a plunge cut. I have never heard of the loose plate method and certainly would never attempt it. The way you show has always worked for me.

[@j_dubb534]

I've used the tilt and drop method for almost 30 yrs for cutting out windows, medicine cabinets, vents for a roof, etc. It's the only method I use, even when I started carpentry this method just seemed logical. It is a good practice to use and safer, I've seen other people try the other two ways where the saw does kick back or tweeks the blade. Great video.

[@logandavis6206]

I've been working in residential construction for over 10 years, I had never heard of this! Of course you set the plate depth, always! Any lower and you're wasting energy and material of whatever is below

[@MBMCincy63]

I agree with the comments about your channel being safety considerations foremost and appreciate learning from you. Great video Ethan.

[@siegfriedfsanders9439]

Another suggestion for alignment, Measure the distance from back of blade to front of sole plate. Draw a perpendicular line to each cut line at this distance from the back line. Line up the front of sole plate to this line when beginning the plunge cuts

[@markgallagher1376]

As a DIYer I have done quite a few plunge cuts over the years. I always used the correct method you showed because that is how I instinctively did it. Never even thought about other methods cause it worked well for me.

[@wtf1185]

I'm 71 and not a pro by any means. I've not done that many plunge cuts but the ones I've done have all been your way, I have never ever even thought about using a saw without everything being tightened down properly. A coworker used to chock the blade guard up on his saw and still did it even after setting the still spinning blade down on his thigh. Nasty gash, some people are just stubbornly ignorant.

[@AA-gw6wd]

I have used a skill saw more then most people and I completly agree with everything said in this video. Good advice.

[@darrelllynds1953]

I've learned that you can TRUST Ethan's channel for solid advice on carpentry and proper use of the tools.

[@scottwhitaker2813]

Great job! As a professional carpenter, I was always taught never to use the loose plate cutting method as an apprentice. The master that taught me told me to think of the circular saw as a portable table saw. You never would use a table saw with a loose table...

[@jodilea144]

Perfect analogy.

[@jokiejokes]

This saw kzbin.infoUgkx84IcU5pbZd1Qrz8u4-YRLmJax7kdRi7B comes in handy in many ways. When I had a small (dead) tree fall I started the process of disposal by using this saw and cutting off the small branches. Then slowly work on the small trunk with undercutting and letting it fall down. With many trees on acres of land paying for a tree service can be expensive. It also is nice in that it can be used in hard to get areas like along my creek. It's also safer and quieter than a chainsaw. It obviously can't cut down massive trees but it does work fine for small ones or brush. And of course since I already own a Black

[@boatdetective]

Practical, well thought out, and right to the point. Every...single...time. Love your channel.

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

Thank you, Jonathan!

[@eadgbefreak]

I've been a carpenter for 35+years and never even heard of anyone doing loose plate cutting. I plunge cut exactly as you showed in this video. Good job! PS: if money is no object...buy a Festool circular saw... it does plunge cutting with ease.

[@a___________r414]

absolutely correct!!!

[@sergeyn.syritsyn6748]

plunge cutting with ease into wallet! sorry, could not help myself

[@Raptor-700R]

​@@sergeyn.syritsyn6748😂😅🤣😭exactly

[@CreativeIdeasMaker]

You have provided us with very good explanations and guidance, and we thank you for such training.

[@Michelle-bw1xg]

Beginner here. Helpful video. I have a plywood floor down in my minivan and want to cut access holes to underfloor storage but keep the "lids" intact. Was trying to figure out how to get started. Plunge cut was recommended to me but I couldn't visualize it. Now I can.

[@HyperactiveNeuron]

Excellent advice as always. I've seen loose plate plunge cuts done but would never try it myself. Thankfully I have a track saw which is perfect for plunge cuts because it's made for it. Love your channel 👏👏

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

Thank you, JJ!

[@richnfamous59]

I agree 100% - loose plate cutting is only for people who don't want their fingers any more btw: I find a line perpendicular to the intended kerf, about where the toe of the sole plate would be, helps line up the cut. you don't have to line up with it perfectly but it helps oh, and watch out where the rear of the blade is. it's easy to start too far back and make a mess of the corner I hardly ever start a cut in the classic style when I'm cutting sheet material because it's so easy to have the edge tear out, making an ugly corner

[@paulcarey1708]

Soooo.... the guy with 11 fingers tired of getting teased by the other woodworkers? ;^)

[@maxedmiston1564]

I attempted plunge cut without knowing the proper technique 😱 and got a lot of kick back and wood damage. After watching this video and applying what I learned, plunge cut on point. Thanks honest carpenter!

[@keithstadler8694]

Great channel and goood advice. Is there any reason you couldn't attach the saw to a guide rail that is clamped to the stock and then do a loose plate cut? Obviously making sure there is nothing beneath the stock? Thanks!

[@David.M.]

Yes! There are some folks out there who are going to keep their fingers because of this video. Thanks Ethan.

[@Rhampi]

As a beginner woodworker I'm glad I did it like this from the start intuitively. It's kinda reassuring that there's some common sense in me. Thanks for this video, I'll have to check out your channel!

[@brewswillis9783]

This is the only way I learned, never considered doing it any other way. Well done!

[@davidcampbell2845]

Great video - thanks. It made me think about a few times I've had to do this and yes, some of them ended in kickback and a messed up piece. I went out and tried something - clamping a wood baton at right angles to a cut line on a board, and bracing the sole plate against the corner between the baton and the board. It worked a treat to make the first cut and it lines the blade up exactly. Here's exactly what I did - 1 set the cut depth to be 1" below the board, 2 clamp the baton at right angles to the intended cut, 3 place the front of the saw sole plate into the corner between baton and board, 4 turn on the saw on and gently lower to make the plunge cut, 5 turn saw off and remove baton, 6 reduce the cut depth to 1/2" below the board, 7 with saw still off, drop the blade into the cut with the reduced depth giving enough blade clearance front and back to avoid kickback on startup, 8 complete the cut. This all takes a minute or two longer, but I got three perfect cuts out of three. I hope that helps somebody!

[@ericgee9745]

Great solution imho

[@1ghosthorse]

I've never seen or will use the loose plate plunge. I do mine like you do, line up my front plate notch & my blade (adjusting my kerf with my line) then start the blade. I find plunge cuts are easier with my Skil worm drive than my M18 sidewinder. Another great video.

[@KJ110813]

I found plunges easier with the skil worm too until I started clamping the blade guard open. Something I would strongly advise against any diyer doing and any pro making a habit of it. I will never clamp a worm drive open and probably not even a corded sidewinder. My M18 fuel though... That thing is so fucking smooth and has never kicked on me.

[@martinpattison2653]

I have always done it the way you recommend here. Of course, that might be because I had not thought of the loose plate method.

[@mjdiiii]

Good advice! I use your method exactly. I've never felt unsafe making a plunge cut.

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

It’s very stable with the right technique 😄

[@pendiesel1825]

I learned carpentry from trial and error so it’s always refreshing to hear the technical terminology. I often make plunge cuts but never without the bottom plate secure.

[@wllm500]

I have never heard or even considered this loose plate technique, I guess that is a good thing but always good to learn something new (even if it is something NOT to do). Keep up the good work on the channel and its content.

[@johncarlson7955]

Totally agree, never heard of this either

[@suedenim9208]

It sounds to me like a solution to a non-existent problem. You can pivot on the front of a locked plate just fine, so why would you even bother to loosen it?

[@tianyi05]

One way to help get the cut lined up is to put a reference line on the piece. Figure out about where you are going to start the cut, make a mark on the piece at the front of the sole plate, then mark a line 90 degrees to the cut line at that point. Then you have a reference line to put the sole plate on when you start the cut.

[@steveramsdell4812]

Learned plunge cut decades ago. Never loosened base plates. Never had a problem. Always set the blade depth before cutting.

[@jaredtrachtenberg3443]

Thanks for this! Was able to safely (and quickly) notch the back face of a vanity drawer to make clearance for a drain line using your technique.

[@TEX-704]

I have never "loose plate" plunge cut before in all my years of cutting. I was taught to adjust the plate to the depth of your material. Pretty much common sense if you ask me.

[@jamesfriend481]

I’m a DIY’er and have done plunge cuts, I have never thought to loosen the plate or just float the blade down. I love my hands and fingers.

[@budgetaudiophilelife-long5461]

THANKS ETHAN,GREAT ADVICE FOR THE SAFETY OF ALL…ESPECIALLY NEW ONES 👍💚💚💚

[@commandoconstruction2720]

I haven’t done loose plate plunging, but have had the plate loosen. Not great, but I usually have stuff clamped down when doing that. This gets way more important when doing a bevel plunge. Cutting short hip rafters, same thing. Clamp it. It’s cheaper than hiring a guy to hold the other end.

[@mikeforster8798]

Excellent video! Anyone who works with wood or who want to work with wood should see this and then get trained on how to use a saw. Loose plate cutting is dangerous so I would avoid it

[@Bomtombadi1]

As a noob, I like my fingers and hands. Valuable tips. Thank you!

[@andrewbieger5004]

Great stuff. Easily overlooked in your video is the bit where the work piece is clamped down. I have seen WAY to many sketchy things on job sites where guys have plywood on top of rickety horses or a small piece sitting on a drywall bucket and everything is skating around. Doing plunge cuts are a recipe for disaster if you don't have a stable work piece AND total control of the saw.

[@pradeeprasam]

Great content. No nonsense and no fancy tools or trying to sell stuff thx a ton

[@loumonte658]

Very good advice. I rate the dangers of a circular saw right up there with a table saw. But with a few precautions (such as what you just explained) Both saws can be relatively safe. Great video btw.

[@suedenim9208]

Table saws can be very good at launching missiles, but they'll never kick back and slam a spinning blade into you.

[@grantreid8583]

We cut alluminium with a circular saw at my workplace up to 150mm and have plunge cut 50mm we clamp a straight edge on the material and use that for a fence. Up to 100mm we use a makita saw and the thicker stuff we use a festool saw that is massive but slow as it has some sort of thermal cutout and it stops and you have to wait. The makita saws are very good

[@craigsmith3645]

All really good advice! Retired carpenter here.

[@bruce-le-smith]

Thank you sir, of all the power saws I find the circular saw the most difficult to learn to use safely and effectively. I greatly appreciate all the tips and tricks you provide! And yes, as a noob I have not yet spent enough hours to develop the fine motor skills required to use this saw professionally, so my attempts at long straight cuts do get "squirrelly" haha

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

You’re welcome, Bruce! It’s the most dangerous saw, so it’s the one I cover most thoroughly 👍

[@jodilea144]

@Bruce Le Smith find a good straight edge and, with it clamped down securely, run the plate of your saw along it to make long, straight cuts. I was nervous of it myself at first, but once I learned the dos and don’ts and had some practice, I became more confident. That’s not to say that you should ever get so confident that you stop following safety rules! I’m sure you’ll be running nice, straight cuts in no time. 🙂

[@jstasiak2262]

1. High end circular saws (e.g. Festool, Mafell, etc.) have a spring loaded base plate that can be pre-set to a precise depth to allow for a controlled, precise plunge cut. This feature is extremely useful and is one reason why these saws are expensive. You get what you pay for. 2. When using a circular saw on a track (i.e. a track saw) to cut high quality sheet goods (e.g. finish plywood), it is sometimes extremely helpful to initially set the depth to a shallow cut (~1/8” to 3/16”) and move the saw backwards along the track to make a clean score cut, then re-adjust the depth for a full thickness cut and cut forwards along the track. This produces a clean cut on both sides of the plywood.

[@Changtent]

Good video thanks. Need to discuss holding open the blade guard. Holding the guard-lever while you cut removes one hand from controlling the saw, not good. I understand wanting the blade guard to return as soon as you remove the saw from the wood. If we had an electro-magnet to hold the blade-guard open while cutting, it could drop automatically when the trigger is released.

[@yevrahhipstar3902]

Spinning-disc tools are sooooo exciting to use....tears and lacerations always a heartbeat away!

[@Atelierul29]

I guess I did this "the safe way" all the time and I didn't even knew it but I must admit that I still get some kickback from time to time even with the fixed plate method.

[@JamesBiggar]

I've never cut with a loose plate. Blade depth needs to be adjusted at some point for the best chances of getting a clean cut without binding and hacking my guts open, and it just makes more sense to make that adjustment when my eyes aren't focused on a spinning blade, as I was taught in trade school. Messing around with blade depth or any other adjustment while the blade's spinning just increases the risk. I take risks on site, sure, when it's absolutely necessary. Plunge cutting isn't a situation that requires sacrificing intelligence for convenience.

[@cmick09ish]

As a semi pro haha I think you've done a great job explaining the how's and why's for both how not and how to perform this potentially catastrophic technique. Maybe an add on for a future video might include why you DO NOT want to skip the circular saw all together and just start the plunge with the jig saw haha. If you only want to use the jig, drill a hole in the field big enough for the jig saw's blade so you can start cutting with the jig saw table flat on surface as per normal operation. I think it's great to show the DIY'ers how to do a more dangerous technique the safest way possible with the plunge cut using a circ saw but the "drill a hole to get the blade started" method can make it so don't even have to use the "Plunge cut technique", depending on the situation it could be a better way to go and decrease the odds of an amputation even further haha

[@burythedead2]

I've done a cut like this one. But I didn't have any problems. Thanks for the tips on cutting it like this. It's very helpful. 😎👍

[@contessa.adella]

Years ago I tried to plunge a cheap corded saw into floor boards with no knowing how…it scooted off on its own. 😂 So when I recently bought my Dewalt 570 ‘serious saw’ I looked up how to plunge properly (as in this vid) and never had an issue. I make a point of setting my saw depth to no more than half a gullet depth deeper than the material and that works perfectly.

[@glupglup69]

Great and useful recommendations ! (Made some mistakes explained in the video...😮‍💨) Thank you Sir ! Regards from Belgium.

[@jhoodfysh]

Thanks for a great video Ethan. Plunge cutting is something as a noob DIYer, I avoid. At my skill level too much can go wrong.

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

It’s never a bad idea to err on the side of safety, John!

[@tenflat2009]

I mostly agree with you on all points, save for the 1/4" protrusion. With less blade length in the material, the operator is far more likely to twist and wander causing an increased risk of binding and kickback. The only real solution to this potential problem is to use a saw equipped with some sort of anti kickback sensor. Most cordless and some corded saws have this feature where if the motor draws too much current it will shut down and apply the brake. Safest system all around in my opinion. I've been making plunge cuts in sheeting for more than 20 years as a carpenter, believe me, I would NEVER intentionally run with a loose plate on my saw, be it depth or angle adjustments.

[@donmcleod8307]

I've used loose plate plunging for years, it was certainly VERY uncomfortable (read, scary!) for a long time. Your tutorial is thorough and accurate. I still use the 'learner' way, as it is so much more stable. I could see that when you knew there would be kickback it was still horribly quick and unexpected Keep well, and thanks for your video

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

Yep, I hate making the saw kick for these videos, don! But I see it as important to get it in camera so people can see how fast and nerve-wracking it is 😓

[@ThePainkiller3666]

For plunge cuts I shim the guard open using the lever against the blade housing and when I'm finished I let the blade come to a complete stop before I remove the saw then I set it down but not on the blade. That way I have both hands on the saw during the plunge cut.

[@johnnyrottenwood4935]

I use a pencil to hold the guard open.

[@jodilea144]

I’ve only done a handful of plunge cuts with my circular saw, but I used the pivot method. I’d never have thought to loosen the plate - seems a bit risky! Reading the comments though, I guess I can see an occasional need for that method…but I’ll leave that to the pros! Thanks for another great video. 🙂

[@jodilea144]

By the way, it seems (again, from other comments) that you have a collection of “JJ’s” on your channel. Just thought I’d mention that I’m close - our granddaughter calls me JoJo. 😊

[@ifell3]

Thank you, great video and well done for showing the controlled kick backs!!

[@geraldsouthard7092]

Thanks for the video. I learn more every time I watch a new one.

[@DeutschHomeInspection]

Never really saw the need to cut with the plate loose before and can't see what the advantage would be now. Tipping in works great; way more controlled and definitely more deliberate. Great video, as always, Ethan

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

Thank you, Deutsch! It’s never made a ton of sense to me either, but some framers especially just seem to prefer it. It might be sliiiightly faster than setting up for a tip-in…🤔

[@nickel0eye]

if your plunging overhead, loose plate is seemingly more "safe"...

[@wiseoldfool]

Good tips if you have to use a circular saw, but plunge (track) saws are not expensive these days (if you don't need a Festool!). I have both, as I like to choose the best tool for a task.

[@Just_A_Tim]

I'm by no means a pro, but I've been using circular saws for diy stuff for like 15 years. It never even occurred to me that anyone needed to be taught this, I've just needed to cut something this way on occasion and did it just like was shown here.

[@corey6393]

One thing that you may have included was the reason why you don't ever run the saw BACK into the stock after the plunge. For anyone wondering, the blade will have a tendency to climb on top of the stock and kick back. 30 years running circular saws of all types, and I rarely if ever do a loose plate plunge cut. It really isn't necessary. I also use worm drive/hypoid saws almost exclusively over sidewinders, but that seems to be more of a personal preference.

[@KJ110813]

As far as circular saws go I generally use either my M18 Fuel or an old Skil worm drive. The M18 I have has some computer chip and programming I guess and I've never had it kick back on me. With that saw, I will ignore the traditional and common sense safety rules for circular saws occasionally and am comfortable in doing so (I still make sure to think it through and acknowledge shit still could happen. Worm drives on the other hand... I don't go as far as clamping down what I'm cutting and holding the saw with two hands, but I don't get crazy by any means.

[@greensfarmland]

I've done plunge cuts for thirty years, yes rarely even the floating one when I needed to. I agree that these cuts should not be used by rookies. One of the safest ways to work is to know all your tools, and how they handle. If your afraid to use them, then keep it simple. Allow yourself to grow in experience. Plunge cuts look scary, and can be,but when your comfortable, and confident with your saw, then it becomes second nature. I usually use my carpenters pencil and slide it between the saw, and the handle for the guard. It acts as a wedge to keep the guard open. So that I can have both hands firmly on the saw where they belong. Finish my cut, pull the pencil, and lift the saw blade out of the kurf. My hands and fingers are not what they use be, and that way feels safer for me. The way that was shown is very well done, and nothing wrong with it at all. It kinda sucks to say this, but until one experiences a kickback, and learns to handle it. Plunge cuts are scary, and if someone don't know how to handle a saw, I would stay away from it until you get some experience. Heck I probably pounded nails for at least a year before I made my first plunge cuts. Good job explaining all the details.

[@nicolabellomo6049]

We can't thank you enough. So helpful. You are a master

[@markpercy4277]

Great video, when l plunge cut l clamp a piece of wood across the timber i'm cutting through so the plate has something to pivot against

[@roberturrutia4387]

Nothing is more precarious than taking off 3/8" of a custom cabinet that has been waiting f or a Sub Zero since the pandemic started. Then sometimes you need to take some off the height! Great video and you're a great teacher

[@suedenim9208]

If you're talking about widening the opening or removing part of the scribe on the face to fit it between other cabinets you're talking about something that works far better with a router than a circular saw. That's especially true if you're removing something so it will be flush to the side of the cabinet. You definitely need to be mindful of the grain, and make sure you don't let it split out more than you want to remove. A saw works fine for taking down the sides to adjust height, but anything will show needs to be scored with a utility knife and then taped to prevent splintering.

[@andrewj5998]

If you're gonna need a jigsaw to finish the corners of a circular saw plunge cut, you might as well make the entire cut using the jig saw. I think it's safer and easier to drill two holes in opposite corners and use a jig saw to make cuts away from the holes before cleaning up the two corners that have the drill holes with the jig saw. I used to hate my jig saw, but learned that using a short blade and cutting slow yields nice straight, square cuts.

[@gfotinakes316]

I agree, that is exactly what I would do.

[@ralphyo6285]

And a lot safer too.

[@canebro1]

Depending on the depth, you might just need a hand saw for the corners. Also, maybe use a circular saw for the initial cut, and then a jigsaw for the rest.

[@mr.g937]

Over any sizeable run the jig saw always gonna have some waviness even with the steadiest of hands.

[@ALJessica]

You Can never cut as straight with a jigsaw as with a circular Saw - unless you use some kind of guiding rig

[@Confindencedrugee]

I sometimes cut backwards to prevent tear out. On laminate I also plunge cut all the time to cut out sinks or other square holes.

[@lifeisinserthere]

Damn this is one of the best DIY videos I think I've ever seen. Very well explained. You probably just saved me a bunch of time, effort, material, and perhaps even a few fingers or a chunk of thigh 😅

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

🙏😁

[@anneoreilly4900]

I couldn’t help but hold my breath as you demonstrated those poor techniques. Thanks but your words are enough description! Happy 2023 for The Honest Carpenter.

[@dankelley9361]

Great advice, I’ve never needed to make a plunge cut with a loose shoe plate.

[@Bmagj2]

You've probably saved my fingers my guy. Wish you were around during high school wood shop!

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

Thank you, stay safe! 😁

[@semilife]

Concise and common sense advice s always, thanks The Honest Carpenter.

[@oliverqueen8305]

شكرااا يا مبدع .. انت حقا تنفع الناس بارك الله فيك 🥰🥰

[@oNeGiAnTLiE]

Old and out of the game now, but remember seeing guys do those loose table plunge cuts. (With their "circular" saws) Made no sense to me from the start. They had "skill" saws!😉 Never even bothered to attempt that cut. Good tips from a youngster here!

[@jafquist27]

Although I do, occasionally, lift the guard to make a cut, I keep it to an absolute minimum. I have not done very much plunge cutting, but I use my saw a lot. I cut up pallets to burn in my wood stove. That's how I've heated my house for 15 years. After having the saw buck and sink fully into my leg, from which I almost died, I have adopted the "Use the saw exactly as the manufacturer instructs" approach. It is a bonafide miracle the blade missed my femoral artery and also did not contact any bone or tendons. My grown children were with me, taking the wood I was cutting to the shed for stacking, and they almost watched me bleed out. Lift the guard, if you must, but under no circumstance tie the guard back. Sounds like common sense to most, but I had convinced myself the guard was slowing down my production. Well, the injury happened on February 15, and I was not able to cut wood again until may; that was a real kink in my production. Just throwing out this out there, in case it could save somebody's life.

[@sovannahong6472]

I made all those mistakes before I came across this lol. Liked, and subscribed.

[@luckyjim51]

Dewalt built a saw with the blade adjustment in the front. The most dangerous saw on the planet...!! Yep cutting out a sink. I backed it up right across a yellow counter top... !! Damn it I said... skillsaw is a great tool. I'm a retired carpenter with ten fingers. I've been tested....lol!

[@josephadamkovich1887]

Ethan, I subbed to you quite a while back and enjoy your videos, it's also refreshing not to see everything with green accents on them. Keep the knowledge coming.

[@tdok6487]

Great cannel with loads of good information.

[@ericl.winter3622]

Thanks for this info. Makes total sense. I’ve always done this the risky way.

[@mustangtonto5862]

You do an especially good job on your presentation videos. Additionally, for a rather young man you seem especially well versed and level headed in all things carpentry. Congratulations and keep on keeping on.

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

Thank you, Mustang! I’ve gotten a lot of good guidance from many older tradespeople over the years, starting with my dad when I was a kid on job sites in the 90s 🙂

[@donza588]

Plunge cutting works really well with battery skillsaw smaller diameter cutting depths up to 25mm

[@jcsrst]

I always plunge cut but I never do it with a loose plate and have the blade only as deep as necessary. Also no plunge cuts for finish work unless I am using a track saw.

[@raindropsrising7662]

Thank you for the video. Good warning and guidance as always. Appreciate it.

[@Habibulla.M]

Valuable information. I never try that plunge cut ...