Small Angles with a Circular Saw

[David Carter]

How do those of you who use a circular saw cut angles like 3 degrees, etc.? Do you try to be precise or do you just approximate and let PL do the rest? I'm asking for SONIDO TUMBAO who's trying to figure out the best way to cut the angles required for a T48 build but didn't feel he could explain himself clearly in English.

One method he's been wondering about is using the sketchup model to determine the length of the top and bottom faces of the panel, marking his boards according to those measurements, and then trying to eyeball the angle on his circular saw to match. Thoughts? Suggestions?

[Scott Brochu]

How do those of you who use a circular saw cut angles like 3 degrees, etc.? Do you try to be precise or do you just approximate and let PL do the rest? I'm asking for SONIDO TUMBAO who's trying to figure out the best way to cut the angles required for a T48 build but didn't feel he could explain himself clearly in English.

One method he's been wondering about is using the sketchup model to determine the length of the top and bottom faces of the panel, marking his boards according to those measurements, and then trying to eyeball the angle on his circular saw to match. Thoughts? Suggestions?

Personally I don't think it matters with a degree that small, and ya the PL would fill the gap.
I wouldn't glue that peice first though incase you glue at the wrong angle. I would glue the peice that conects to that 3 degree cut peice first so it has a proper place to rest.
Or...you said it was a T 48 just make sure you follow the lines drawn out on one of the sides when glueing.

Although with cabinetry it is precise, measure twice, cut once.

[LelandCrooks]

Tell him not to bother with the 3deg. Just sand it to the angle, rather than cut it. I don't think he has PL, but he could caulk the joint after gluing.

[Israel]

it is easier to round degrees with a circular saw i round in 5 degree increments each 5 degrees is little less than 1/16 in gap and i also agree that it is better off sanding it. To explain it neat if i need to cut a 12 degree angle I made a 10 degree cut with the circular saw and sand the rest. ofcourse i did it a few times before realze that i need a table saw

[Scott Brochu]

ofcourse i did it a few times before realze that i need a table saw

You don't need one but it sure makes life a lot easier when cutting.

If you can show pictures of your build and we can help you out, and point out things you might miss. It's a lot easier to get problems fixed now than later.

[Tom Smit]

I use this one... http://www.amazon.com/General-Tools-Pla ... B00004T7P5 and it is dirt cheap! I set it on the saw bed, and against the blade. Then I adjust the bed to the angle desired.
As mentioned, PL will fill for a square cut (if PL is available).

[David Carter]

I use this one... http://www.amazon.com/General-Tools-Pla ... B00004T7P5 and it is dirt cheap! I set it on the saw bed, and against the blade. Then I adjust the bed to the angle desired.

I have that gadget also, but I'm having trouble picturing what you are describing. Any chance you could post a pic?

[Gregory East]

He's talking about a circular saw. He adjusts the bottom plate angle using the gadget.

[David Carter]

Yes, I know we're talking about a circular saw. I just couldn't picture how you could set it against the blade. But now I think I get it. I would adjust the blade depth so that it protrudes as far as possible below the shoe, and then place the protractor against the shoe and the blade. Right?

[Gregory East]

I am confused by your confusion. You got it.

[Tom Smit]

In the picture in the link, the gauge is at approxiametly 60 degrees. Therefore, if the bottom of the gauge is on the bed, tilt the bed until the blade meets the side exactly. Then the blade will cut at a 60 degree angle.
For a different angle, set the gauge to the desired number of degrees, and tilt the bed so that the blade meets it again.

Hope that is clearer!

[DrDoug018]

I use this one... http://www.amazon.com/General-Tools-Pla ... B00004T7P5 and it is dirt cheap! I set it on the saw bed, and against the blade. Then I adjust the bed to the angle desired.
As mentioned, PL will fill for a square cut (if PL is available).

My approach is "Why use an inexpensive straight-forward tool when much more expensive and complicated options are available?"

I have both but it is just so much more rewarding to use a phone to build a speaker.

Doug