Segments and staves are used in woodworking to form circles, arches, cylinders and polygons. Once you decide on how many sides or segments your polygon will have, simply divide 360 degrees by the number of segments. Each segment and its radial lines form a triangle whose included angles total 180 degrees.
Divide 360 degrees by the number of segments desired, to find the included angle of the radial lines. Subtract this number from 180 degrees. Divide the result by two to find the miter angle to be cut on each end of a segment, or each side of a stave. This holds true for any number of segments.
Angle Saw
Let us assume a pentagon, which, of course, has 5 sides. Divide 360 by 5, and you get 72 degrees. This is the included angle of the radial lines, and since a triangle has 180 degrees, the angles at each end of the segment are half of the difference between 180 degrees and 72 degrees. (360/5=72. 180-72=108. 108/2= 54) The angle at each end of the segment is 54 degrees, which is the miter angle at which you will cut each segment.
Table saw and miter saw angle scales are relative to the blade being perpendicular to the table or to the fence, so it is necessary to deduct the miter angle from 90 degrees in the above formula to arrive at the proper angle setting on the saw.
Notice that in a 3 piece project, the miter angle is 30 degrees, where a table saw or a miter saw generally will not tilt past 45 degrees. It is necessary to set the blade at 30 degrees and place the board vertically against the fence. There are some inherent dangers in doing this, as the board must be supported by some supplemental means. First, a tall fence is required to keep the board vertical. Second, a rail should be placed on top of the rip fence, and clamped to the work piece so the work piece is supported beyond the cut to prevent the work piece from dropping onto the trailing edge of the blade at the end of the cut. Alternatively, clamp two pieces together and readjust the rip fence accordingly.
A power miter saw can be used to make cuts less than 45 degrees by securing an auxiliary fence 90 degrees to the saw fence, but I don't advocate doing so unless the work piece is of sufficient length to provide adequate finger room for the operator. This is particularly useful when cutting complimentary angles such as for forming odd shapes in decking. Use an adjustable work stand to support the board when turned 90 degrees from the fence.
Set the blade angle for the required angle, and cut one end with the board against the auxiliary fence and the other end with the board against the saw fence over the top of the auxiliary fence. Doing so in this order allows the length to be controlled against the saw fence. Make your auxiliary fence from scrap 3/4" plywoo. ans place a second piece of 3/4" scrap on the other side of the blade to support the drop off.
Special Price!!! Black & Decker JS680V 6 Amp Jig Saw with Smart Select
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Black & Decker JS680V 6 Amp Jig Saw with Smart Select Feature
- LineFinder system allows for increased visibility
- Smart select technology
- Cast shoe for improved accuracy and durability
- Tool free blade change provides fast, easy blade changing
- Accepts T and U shank blades
Black & Decker JS680V 6 Amp Jig Saw with Smart Select Overview
Includes 6.0 Amp LineFinder Orbital Jigsaw - JS680V, Wood Cutting Blade, Pen, Pen Holder, (3) AAA BatteriesBlack & Decker JS680V 6 Amp Jig Saw with Smart Select Specifications
Ideal for making curved and straight cuts in wood, metal, and plastic, the Black & Decker JS680V Jigsaw with Smart-Select Dial will give you accurate results on your first pass. Complete with a blade and an innovative feature set that includes LineFinder, a Smart Select dial, easy angle adjustments, and more, this fast, powerful, and precise jigsaw is perfect for novice cutters and serious do-it-yourselfers alike.
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![]() Jigsaw automatically sets the optimal orbit and speed for your cut. View larger. |
![]() The cast shoe provides increased durability and accuracy. View larger. |
Line Finder and Smart-Select Provide Accurate, Precise Results
Ideal for a range of around-the-house cutting projects, from deck construction to baseboard, trim, and furniture work, the JS680V improves productivity and saves you time.
First, the LineFinder illuminates your cut line for optimum visibility and accuracy. This feature also makes it easy to cut wherever you are, so you don't need to move your project to a better-lit location every time you need to make a cut.
Additionally, the Smart-Select dial allows you to get precise results with the first pass by automatically setting the optimal orbit and speed for your type of cut.
Chock-Full of User-Friendly Features
Powered by a robust, six-amp motor, the JS680V also includes a cast shoe that provides durability and accuracy.
Other features include an accu-bevel angle adjustment that provides accurate bevel adjustments with a quick-action lever and an indicator window. Additionally, this jigsaw allows for fast, easy, tool-free blade changes--onboard blade storage holds up to three blades and has a convenient see-through door.
This easy-to-use jigsaw has a 3/4-inch stroke length, accepts T- and U-shank blades, and is backed by a two-year limited warranty.
What's in the Box
JS680V Jigsaw, blade, and LineFinder pen.
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