Place the foot of the saw firmly on the stock before starting to cut.

Don't cut curves shaper than the blade can handle.

When cutting through a wall, make sure you don't cut electrical wires.

Router

The router is a versatile portable power tool that can be used free hand or with jigs and attachments. Figure 3-21 shows a router typical of most models. It consists of a motor containing a chuck into which the router bits are attached. The motor slides into the base in a vertical position. By means of the depth adjustment ring, easy regulation of the depth of a cut is possible. Routers vary in size from 1/4 to 2 1/2 horsepower, and the motor speed varies from 18,000 to 27,000 rpm.

One of the most practical accessories for the router is the edge guide. It is used to guide the router in a straight line along the edge of the board. The edge guide is particularly useful for cutting grooves on long pieces of lumber. The two rods on the edge guide slip into the two holes provided on the router base. The edge guide can be adjusted to move in or out along the two rods to obtain the desired lateral depth cut.

There are two classifications of router bits. Built-in, shank-type bits fit into the chuck of the router. Screw-type bits have a threaded hole through the center of the cutting head, which allows the cutting head to be screwed to the shank. Figure 3-22 shows a few of the most common router bits.

Observe the following safety precautions when operating a router:

Before operating a router, be sure the work piece is well secured and free of obstruction.

Make sure the router is disconnected from the power source before making any adjustment or changing bits.

Don't overload the router when cutting the material.

Use both hands to hold the router when cutting material.

Figure 3-22.-Router bits.