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60-degree angles are used in lots of different areas, for instance, when using multiple pieces of wood to form a basic structure. The most common use is seen in creating thicker table legs by attaching two 60 degree cuts together. It can also be used to cut the stock to size or carpentry applications, especially where appearance is essential. You can cat a 60-degree angle on a table saw.
How to cut a 60-degree angle on a table saw
Before you get started, it is essential to have the right tools and equipment for the job. For angles smaller than 60 degrees, a protractor can be used to mark the angle with a pencil. However, when cutting larger angles such as 60 degrees, you will need a table saw.
To cut the piece of wood at 60 degrees, you also need a sacrificial fence installed on your saw. Some people choose to place this directly behind the blade. However, it is much safer and more manageable if it is in front of the blade instead. The reason for this is that when the stock is pushed into the blade, it will apply a lot of force on the back of your saw, making it hard to control.
Wear all necessary safety equipment and make sure you have a good grip on your workpiece before commencing with the cut.
Tools and equipment:
- Table saw with a sacrificial fence. It is much better if the fence is in front of the blade, but it can be behind it in a pinch.
- A dedicated push stick to attach to your table saw for safety purposes. Alternatively, you could use an extra piece of wood as a push stick. But make sure that it is wide enough and long enough to do the job.
- A straight edge or ruler. It will come in handy to help guide your workpiece while cutting.
Step 1
Measure and mark the angle on your workpiece using a protractor. If you are working with a large piece of wood, mark the angle on one end of the workpiece.
If you are using a small piece of wood or don’t have a protractor to hand, use a scrap strip as a guide and place it against your workpiece. Make sure that the edge is level with the cut you need to make. Mark this line with either a pencil or a marker pen.
Place your marked piece of wood on top of the saw, with the blade in between the two lines that you have marked. Make sure that it is sitting against the fence, leaving approximately 1/8th” gap to the blade itself.
Secure your workpiece in place by using either clamps or gravity (depending on the design of your saw).
Step 2
With the saw turned off, adjust the blade height so that it is just shy of the thickness of your workpiece. For example, if you are cutting a piece of wood 3/4″ thick, set the blade height to approximately 7/8″.
Turn on the saw and wait for it to come up to speed.
Carefully push the workpiece into the blade, ensuring it doesn’t move in any other direction. Apply pressure towards the fence with your hands and use your body weight to push.
You should hear and feel the cut being made. Keep pushing until the workpiece has passed the blade.
Remove the workpiece from the saw and look at the cut that has been made. If it is not exactly 60 degrees, don’t worry, you can always adjust it slightly.
If you are happy with the angle, flip your workpiece over and do the same thing on the other side.
You can now cut your workpiece to the required length. Remember, if you are using multiple pieces of wood to build a frame or something similar, you will need two pieces with the same angle on each end.
While it is not necessary to use a push stick, it is highly recommended as it will help to protect you from the blade if your fingers should happen to slip.
Attach your push stick or other safety equipment to your table saw using clamps and tighten them until they are secure and cannot move. If you do not have a clamp, you can use any strong tape such as duct tape or even cable ties.
And that’s how you cut a 60-degree angle on a table saw! It may seem daunting at first, but it will become second nature with a bit of practice. Safety is vital when using any power tool, so make sure you take all necessary precautions and read the instruction manual before starting.
Tips and Instructions for cutting 60 degree angle
- Don’t forget your safety equipment!
- Before starting, ensure that the blade guard has been removed and that the workpiece is securely clamped down or pushed up against the fence.
- Make sure that your fingers are away from the blade, as well as any part of your body and anything flammable.
- If you have a large piece of wood, pay extra attention to the angle and make sure it is precisely 60 degrees before starting. After pushing down on the saws guide handle, use your free hand to steady the workpiece.
- If you are working with a small piece of wood, use a spacer or guide to ensure that your cut is exact.
- Do not try and remove all the saw dust as you go along. It will create a lot of heat and cause the blade to warp, which could potentially cause the cut to be less accurate. Let it all fall to the bottom of your table saw, and use a dustpan once you have finished.
FAQs
Q: Is a push stick a safety device?
A: Yes, a push stick is an essential safety feature that helps to keep the hands and fingers away from danger. When using this powerful tool, you must use proper safety equipment such as gloves, goggles, and earplugs. Always remember to read the instruction manual before starting.
Q: What is the difference between a low-angle and high-angle plane?
A: A plane with its blade at 0 degrees is what we call a low-angle plane, whereas one with its blade set to about 20 degrees is called a high-angle plane. The main difference is that the angle affects the direction of the cut. Planes with a low-angle are effective in planning across the grain, whereas high-angle planes are better used for end grain.
Q: How accurately does the cut need to be?
A: The most important thing is that both ends of your workpiece have the same angle. Make sure they’re exactly 60 degrees! If it’s not perfect, don’t worry, you can always adjust it slightly.
Q: What if I don’t have a clamp?
A: There are many different ways of securing your workpiece, but for this, you will need something strong and sturdy. If you have some clamps, attach them to your table saw using screws or double-sided tape. If you don’t have any clamps, try using some strong tape to keep the workpiece secure in place. You can also use something like a vice or even your foot if it comes down to it!
Q: What is the best way to cut a 60-degree angle?
A: The best way to cut a 60-degree angle on a table saw is to use a square and set the blade to precisely 60 degrees. It ensures that the workpiece will be as close to perfect as possible, and it also takes away any guesswork.
Q: How can I make sure that my cut is lined up properly?
A: The easiest way is to use your hand to draw an imaginary line along with your board. If you don’t have much experience with table saws, it might be a good idea to attach some wood pieces onto the board to make it easier.
Final Words
Now you know how to cut a 60-degree angle on a table saw! Remember to take your time, be patient and use proper safety equipment. With a bit of practice, you’ll be able to tackle any project with ease.