What timber cutting tools to get straight cuts in cabinetry?

Revi

Hai team,

I have small wood work like shelf and small kitchen cabinets. I have circular saw Ozito. Last time I noticed after cutting plywood not straight. So is it need table cutting saw ? Any ideas ? I need cut some frame also like 2 inch wide?
please advise me.

Thank you

Revi

JacobZ

Hi @Revi,

Straight cuts are definitely achievable with a circular saw but doing it freehand can be very difficult unless you are very experienced. In almost all cases, running your circular saw's base plate up against a guide rail, clamped straight edge, spirit level or even a factory edge of plywood can be used in lieu of larger more expensive tools. For smaller cuts, a speed square can also be used.

Check out https://www.bunnings.com.au/diy-advice/home-improvement/splashbacks-benchtops/how-to-cut-laminate-benchtop for an example of how to use a spirit level, some clamps and a circular saw to get a perfectly straight cut.

You'll also want to make sure you have a sharp blade, you set your blade depth so that the blade only just passes through the material you are cutting and that you take it nice and slow. These steps will help reduce blade deflection, which is where the blade bends ever so slightly in the material. It is a common mistake which can make your cut go off line.

For your shelves, kitchen cabinets, and framing pieces, I'd start by using a guide with your circular saw. If you find yourself doing more cabinetry or cutting a lot of sheet products then a table saw is worth considering. If your work is mostly framing and cutting timber to length, a mitre saw would be the more useful next purchase.

Let me know what you think and if you have further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

Jacob