[bricknblock]

have installed a number of brickpaver patios and walkways over the years, but have never used a cut off saw, always a table or "tub" saw...becoming proficient with a cut off saw has its obvious advantages, but again, no experience with it...anybody have any tips to keep in mind when using one: procedure/ when to use or not use...or is it just trial and error? thanks in advance

[Stonehenge]

When to use: Whenever you need to cut something.

We're just about ready to put for sale signs on both of our tub saws, because they see so little use. You get good at cutoff saws and there is almost* nothing you can't do with them.



*Accurate cutting of pavers for veneers is something tub saws are far better at than cutoff saws.

[bricknblock]

when PERFECTLY straight cuts are needed for something such as a cap for retaining walls, is a cut off saw still sufficient? Since it's hand held, I would think this would be very difficult, if not nearly impossible

[Stonehenge]

Actually, there is a very simple trick to make them come out flawless.

After making the initial cut on a cap block, place it on the wall where you intend it to go, next to the previous block. (I'll assume there was a little undercutting or overcutting because of the type of saw.)

Slide both cap block back toward the retained soil just a bit, so that the front face is behind the face of the SRW units below it (but those two cap block are still touching eachother). This is done to protect the front edge and face of the block below the caps.

Now drop the saw into the seam between those two caps and saw completely through them, top to bottom, front to back. Make sure they are supported on each side, so that they can't move while being cut.

In doing this you are allowing the blade of the saw to grind away any small imperfections in the seam, and repairing any overcut or undercut.

If a gap in the seam isn't repaired with a first pass (the flaw is larger than the width of the saw blade), snug the two caps together again and re-cut.

Piece-o-cake.

[Raj Venugopal]

Nice tip Jeff. Never thought of that.

Bricknblock- rent different handhelds and experiment.

Get one with a good shock dampener. Tub saws are, in my opinion, are a pain unless you're working with something very thin or fine. Last time I used a tubsaw was 4 years ago...never again....

If you're doing a lot of stonework, buy a saw and keep using it. You'll get better with time, like any tool for that matter.

[4seasons]

Ive cut w/ hand held now, but still prefer the tub. Its just so darn heavy! I hired a new guy who only knows how to cut with hand held so its working out great.

[Fine Edge]

We only use a stand up wet saw now since I was stuck in the hunched over position for 2 weeks after using the hand held all day ( but then again, maybe it's not meant for someone who's 6' 3").
Try the hand held and see what you think.
Judging from the posts here, it looks like everyone has a sweet spot and a trick for both.