Here are some steps to do this job safely and easily.
Step 1: Prepare The Saw
Assemble the saw according to the manufacturers instructions, taking care, not to over tighten any screws. Attaching an offset branch should only be done when you know the collar is secure.
If you feel resistance or can see that its loose while making a cut, stop immediately to check the collar and retighten the screws.
Step 2 – Prepare The Offset Branch
You will need to disassemble the offset branch. Take out all the pieces and leave only one length of pipe. Measure both ends carefully with a tape measure including fractions when determining how long your cut needs to be.
Mark an X on both sides using a marker or pencil, then use wire snips to cut through each end precisely down the centerline marked by your Xs.
Now you should have four pieces left of pipe, two each short and long. However, they should not have jagged edges. Use a file or some sandpaper if they have jagged edges before you proceed.
Step 3 Attach The Offset Branch At The Saw
Use pliers to remove both sets of teeth from each end of your saw blade. This is possible with most models by attaching the pliers directly on the flat metal surface of one tooth, twisting counterclockwise until the tooth falls into your hand and then twisting again.
Once all 12 teeth are removed, insert one end of a short piece of pipe over each side of the blade so that it fits snugly inside without being able to turn freely. Use a marker or pencil to mark where you need to cut, then centerpunch below each mark and use a drill to make a hole where you marked.
It should fit snugly but not too tightly. If this fails the first time, you can adjust the length of the pipe and try again. Once the holes are drilled, attach each length of pipe with a screwdriver by fitting one side into each side of the saw blade and tightening screws through each hole until theyre secure.
Repeat these steps for all four pieces of pipe to ensure that both sides have an offset branch securely attached before attempting any cuts. You may need to adjust several times as you find the right fit.
Step 4 – Make Your First Cut
Turn on the reciprocating saw, and then slowly lower it onto your piece. Move it slowly, keeping it parallel to the board, from one end to the other of the cut.
If youre cutting something thicker than wood, for example, a two-by-four or a piece of metal use an oil lubricant on the saw blade so that it doesnt get stuck or slow down too much while attempting to make a cut.
How To Find The Right Offset Branch For Your Reciprocating-saw?
Off-set branches are usually sold separately and come in a variety of lengths, so youll need to purchase the correct size. You can find the right product for your model at your local hardware store, or online.
You should ensure that it is the right type for both blades; some models only accept universal offset branches made from galvanized steel, while others need them to be made of high-strength alloy steel.
There should be no reason why an offset branch wont fit on your saw, but if so, readjust and try again until you find the perfect length and fit.
Tips To Use A Reciprocating Saw Safely
- To protect your eyes from splashes and debris, always wear safety goggles.
- To avoid any injury, make sure you have the correct protective gear such as steel-toe boots and work gloves.
- Be aware of where your other hand is at all times so that you dont accidentally cut it off by accident!
- Use an oil lubricant if you are cutting very difficult materials. This will prevent the blade from becoming stuck halfway through.
Other Uses Of A Reciprocating Saw
- You can easily cut any plumbing pipes using a reciprocating saw, such as copper or PVC.
- You can cut through the nails and screws on carpets and floors without having to use a screwdriver.
- Attach a wood-cutting blade to your saw and convert it into a jigsaw.
Conclusion
FAQs
How Do You Measure And Cut The Branch So It Fits?
Use a tape measure and wire snips to cut the branch to your desired length and then smooth out any rough or jagged edges with a file or sandpaper.
Take care to measure both ends of your offset branch and mark them with a pencil or marker. Make sure your saw blade fits snugly inside the pipe by drilling two holes at each end.
For thicker materials, such as metal, you may need an oil lubricant to ensure that the saw does not get stuck during a cut.
How To Attach The Branch To The Saw?
Use pliers to remove both sets of teeth from each end of your saw blade.
Attach the pipe to the blade by securing one end of it over the other. Once the pipe is secured, use a screwdriver to attach the pipe to the blade. Insert one end into the blade and tighten the screws until the bolt is locked in place.
This process should be repeated for each of the four pieces of pipe.
How Do You Find Out If An Offset Branch Is Required?
It is essential for safety reasons when cutting something thicker than wood, such as metal or fiberglass, because if you cut using your normal reciprocating saw without the offset branch it will likely get stuck in whatever material you are cutting.
You can keep the saw horizontally with your material while cutting, so it doesn’t catch or become stuck.
How To Make Sure Everything Is Secure?
Use pliers to remove both sets of teeth from each end of your saw blade. Attach the pipe to either end of the blade by securing it with one end. Once the pipe is secured, turn the inside of the blade clockwise.
Repeat this step for all four pieces of pipe to ensure that both sides have an offset branch securely attached before attempting any cuts.Your offsets should be perfectly safe as theyre securely attached using screws and theres no way for them to come loose or fall off.
If you are still concerned about safety, you can purchase extra pipe pieces to fit over your blade. These will be placed next to the offset branches on either side. This should make your life even safer.
