Yes, you absolutely can cross cut with a track saw, and it is a task at which this tool excels.
Understanding a Cross Cut
According to woodworking terminology, a cross cut is a cut made perpendicular to the face grain of the workpiece. This type of cut is fundamental in lumber preparation, often used for cutting boards to length.
Why Track Saws Excel at Cross Cutting
The design of a track saw makes it particularly well-suited for making precise cross cuts:
- Guided Accuracy: The saw runs on a dedicated track, which is clamped or held firmly in place across the width of your material. This track ensures a perfectly straight cut line, which is essential for an accurate cross cut.
- Splinter-Free Cutting: Track saws, especially when used with the right blade and splinter guard on the track, are designed to minimize tear-out and splintering on both the top and bottom edges of the material, providing a clean, finished edge perpendicular to the grain.
- Stability: The saw's base registers against the track, providing stability throughout the cut, unlike a standard circular saw that relies solely on the user guiding it freehand or against a makeshift fence.
- Repeatability: Once the track is set for a specific length, it's easy to make multiple identical cross cuts quickly and accurately.
As the reference states, "A cross cut is a cut made perpendicular to the face grain of the workpiece. This is another cut where the track saw excels." This confirms that cross-cutting is not just possible but is considered a strong capability of a track saw.
How to Make a Cross Cut with a Track Saw
Making a cross cut is straightforward:
- Measure and Mark: Mark your desired cut line across the width of the material.
- Position the Track: Align the edge of the track with your mark. Most tracks have a built-in guide strip indicating the exact cutting line.
- Secure the Track: Clamp the track firmly to the workpiece to prevent any movement during the cut.
- Set Saw Depth: Adjust the saw's cutting depth to slightly more than the material thickness.
- Make the Cut: Place the track saw on the track and guide it smoothly through the material, maintaining consistent pressure and speed.
Using a track saw for cross cuts provides a level of precision and finish often surpassing that achievable with a standard circular saw or even some miter saws for wider panels.
