Dusty Bannister
Well-Known Member
Agree with the sawzall, use a coarse long blade, wax for lube to reduce binding during the cutting.
Years ago, I acquired a round farm tractor wheel weight...likely homemade...likely a mystery Lead alloy. It was round, but about 4" thick, like glassparman's block. I used a power 7.25" circle saw like Mitty recommended. I used a cheapo chinese carbide tipped blade made for wood. I made a cut about 1/2" deep, then went over it again, going a bit deeper each time. Then I flipped the weight over, and made a cut that lined up with the first cut. Then I used a maul and cold chisel...She busted right open.Ok so I picked it up last night. It is 9x6.5x4 and definitely weighs 103 lbs.
I did the Staedtler pencil test and 2b was the first to scratch it so I would put it at around 11 bhn.
I still think it was a half way good deal at $50.
Luckily I didn't have a binding problem.The thought of using a circle saw and having the blade bind up and jump back into my lap just bothers the heck out of me. It would take an assistant to lube the cut as you go and no stop and start again when cutting deep into the item. I realize folks have to use what is available at the time.
I use the Ridgid PVC pipe cutter to cut up pipes and telephone lines. It is a ratcheting blade cutter.
I've been using skil saws for decades now, both commercially and at home. I've yet to see a standard saw with enough torque to bind and "jump back into your lap". They bind all the time, especially in green lumber and they tend to just stall. Still, if you aren't comfortable with it, that's understandable.The thought of using a circle saw and having the blade bind up and jump back into my lap just bothers the heck out of me. It would take an assistant to lube the cut as you go and no stop and start again when cutting deep into the item. I realize folks have to use what is available at the time.
My Porter Cable 345 will jump back at you unless you are conscience of it and prepared to resist. It's a 15A saw though.I've been using skil saws for decades now, both commercially and at home. I've yet to see a standard saw with enough torque to bind and "jump back into your lap". They bind all the time, especially in green lumber and they tend to just stall. Still, if you aren't comfortable with it, that's understandable.
I absolutely agree. I use tools for a living, and when you are not paying attention is when something happens. I've never been bit by a saw, but I have sanded the tips of a couple of fingers off using stationary sanders when I got comfortable with them.I'm not trying to come down on anyone, but if you're using a skillsaw you should have both hands on it and your concentration should be on the saw. But, this is like the people that have issues with chainsaws and buzzsaws and every other cutting device I can thing of. If your head isn't in the game, or if you are one of those people who just isn't a tool using animal, you're going to have problems. You're probably better off being scared to death of a saw than being over comfortable. I carry lots of saw scars and I can't fins a single one that didn't involve me having my head shoved firmly up my backside when I got hurt.