From setup to smooth cuts, find out what a track saw is and how to use it like a pro.
Time 1 hour or less
ComplexityBeginner
Cost$200 - $600
Introduction
Explore the power and versatility of the track saw, and learn how to harness its capabilities for your next woodworking masterpiece.
These days, every tool manufacturer seems to offer a track saw. It is no wonder that they are so popular; they are affordable, foolproof, and produce excellent results. So, if you’re new to track saws, here is a crash course on what a track saw is and how to use one.
What is a track saw?
A track saw is a portable power saw that is versatile and designed for making straight cuts in sheet goods such as plywood or MDF. It looks very similar to a circular saw but with a baseplate that fits nicely into an aluminum track (sometimes called a guide rail) to slide along. Because of the track, these saws are extremely accurate when it comes to cutting straight lines.
Track saws have the same features as circular saws, including a depth stop and the ability to cut bevels up to 45 degrees. Additionally, because track saws are spring-loaded and can start or stop cuts anywhere along their track, they are great for making plunge cuts.
Track saws offer precise, table saw-esque cuts with the ease of use of a circular saw. They are particularly useful when working with large wood sheets that are too unwieldy for other saws or when a full-size table saw is unavailable. While track saws require more setup time and attention than a standard circular saw, their combination of portability and accuracy make them a valuable tool for professional woodworkers and DIYers alike.
Parts of a track saw
Tools Required
- Allen wrench
- Framing or drywall square
- Guide rail clamps
- Guide rail connectors (optional)
- Saw horses (optional)
- Track saw
- Track saw track
Materials Required
- Rigid foam board
- Workpiece to cut
Project step-by-step (7)
Step 1
Set up the cut
Put on safety glasses and hearing protection. If you are cutting inside, wear a dust mask.
Because track saws cut from the top and use downward pressure to stay true, a sacrificial underlayment is recommended, though not required. The best underlayment I have found to use in conjunction with a track saw is foam board insulation because it is lightweight, rigid enough to keep the workpiece stable, and doesn’t quickly dull the blade.
Place the foam board insulation on the center of the sawhorses to ensure stability, then place the workpiece you will be cutting on top.
Step 2
Adjust the depth
On the track saw, use the depth adjustment knob to adjust the plunge depth to 1/4-inch deeper than the workpiece you are cutting, plus the track thickness.
If you are making a beveled cut, adjust the bevel adjustment knob to your desired angle. Note that the depth will have to be adjusted deeper on angled cuts.
Step 3
Add additional track if necessary
Several tracks can be attached for longer cuts. Along with other physical track pieces, you will need guide rail connectors and an Allen wrench for the connection.
Step 4
Layout the cut
Using a tape measure and a framing or drywall square, visually mark the exact cut line where you want your cut to land.
Step 5
Attach the saw to the track
Track saw tracks have a rubber zero clearance strip that runs along the cutting edge. The first cut you make using the track will trim it down so you know exactly where the blade will line up with the track.
Align the edge of this zero clearance strip with your cut line and use guide rail clamps to secure it to the workpiece and/or underlayment foam. Track clamps are specially designed to secure the track to the workpiece using the slots on the bottom of it. Be conscious of what side of the cut line the blade lands on so you don’t accidentally cut your piece a blade kerf’s thickness short.
Line up the saw guide slots on the saw’s baseplate with the track. Try sliding the track saw to ensure it is riding smoothly. If it is not, check that no obstructions are trapped between the saw and the track. If the saw slides smoothly but has play from side to side on the track, adjust the rail adjustment knobs to remove the play.
Tip: If everything is clean and properly assembled, you can apply an all-purpose lubricant such as Boeshield T-9 to the track saw track and then wipe off the excess with a paper towel for smoother operation.
Step 6
Make the cut
Fully engage the plunge and on/off triggers, then plunge the saw down. When it stops at the depth stop, push the saw along the length of the track as it cuts. Move steadily, not too fast or too slow. You’ll be able to tell from the finished cut how your pace is. Too fast will cause tear out; too slow will cause excessive blade burning. Cut all the way through the end of the workpiece and release the on/off trigger to stop the saw.
Remove the saw and release the track clamps and your cut is finished.
Step 7
FAQ
Why use a track saw instead of a table saw?
There are some circumstances where a track saw is superior to a table saw. First of all they are lightweight and easy to transport, even easier than many jobsite table saws. Additionally, they are extremely useful for cutting heavy materials – it is much easier to push an eight-pound saw through a MDF sheet than a 70-pound sheet through a saw. And finally, it is much easier and safer to cut irregular shapes or tapers with a track saw since all it takes is moving a track to the desired line.
What are the disadvantages of a track saw?
The greatest disadvantage of a track saw is the amount of time and precision required to line up every cut. In addition, laying out and cutting sheet goods flat consumes a considerable amount of space. The cost of track saws is also higher than that of circular saws.
How thick can a track saw cut?
The majority of track saws are capable of cutting through materials that are up to 2-3/4-in. thick.
