Craftsman 10872 - Mini Circular Saw User manual

Operator's Manual
2.8 Amp Compact
Multi-Purpose/Plunge Action
3-in. Circular Saw
with Laser Trac TM
Model No.
112.10872
Z_ CAUTION: Read, understand and follow
all Safety Rules and Operating Instructions
in this Manual before using this product_
Sears, Roebuck and Co.,
Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.
Visit our Craftsman ®webslte: www.sears.com/craftsman
• WARRANTY
•SAFETY
• UNPACKING
• DESCRIPTION
•OPERATION
• MAINTENANCE

Warranty ................................................................................... Page 2
Safety Symbols .......................................................................... Page 3
Safety Instructions ...................................................................... Pages 4-11
Glossary of Terms ....................................................................... Pages 11-12
Unpacking ................................................................................. Page 13
Description ......................................................................................... Pages 14-15
Operation ........................................................................................... Pages 16-31
Maintenance ...................................................................................... Pages 31-32
Troubleshooting ................................................................................. Pages 33-34
Accessories ....................................................................................... Page 35
Repair Parts ....................................................................................... Pages 35-38
Sears Repair Parts Phone Numbers ................................................. Back Cover
ONEYEAR FULLWARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN ®PRODUCT
tf this Craftsman Tool fails due to a defect in material or workmanship
within one year from the date of purchase, RETURN ITTO ANY SEARS
STORE OR PARTS AND REPAIR CENTER OR OTHER CRAFTSMAN
OUTLET IN THE UNITED STATES FOR FREE REPAIR (OR
REPLACEMENT IF REPAIR PROVES IMPOSSIBLE),
This warranty does not include expendable parts such as lamps, batteries,
bits or blades
if this Craftsman product is used for commercial or rental purposes,
this warranty applies for only 90 days from the date of purchase.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may have other rights,
which vary from state to state.
Sears, Roebuck and Coo, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
SAVETHESE INSTRUCTIONSI
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONSI
,4k WARNING: Some dust created by using power tools contains
chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth
defects or other reproductive harm.

The purpose of safety symbols is to attract your attention to possible dangers.
The safely symbols, and the explanations with them, deserve your careful attention
and understanding, The symbol warnings DO NOT by themselves eliminate any
danger,The instructions and warnings they give are no substitutes for proper accident
prevention measures,
AWARNING: BE SURE to read and understand all safety instructions in this
manual, Including al! safety alert symbols such as "DANGER", "WARNING" and
"CAUTION", BEFORE using this saw. Failure to follow all instructions listed below
may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious personal injury.
SYMBOL MEANING
l/e_ sAFETY ALERT sYMBOL: IndIcates DANGER'WARNING'OR 1
CAUTION.Maybe usedIn conjunctionwith othersymbolsor plctographe.
[-_ DANGER: Failure to obey this safety warning WILL result in |
1
death or serious Injury to yourself or to others. Always follow l
the safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock
and personal Injury.
[ _WARNING ]Failure to obey this safety warning CAN result In death or I
]serious Injury to yourself or to others. Always follow the safety
precautions to reduce the risk of firs, electric shock and
persons! Injury.
|
,'_ CAUTION IFailure to obey this safety warning MAY result In personal I
injury to yourself or others or property damage, Always follow
lthe safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock t
and personal Injury,
DAMAGE PREVENTION AND INFORMATION MESSAGES
These Informuser of important Information and/or Instructions that could lead to
equipmentor other property damage _fnotfollowedoEach message ts preceded by the word
"NOTE:" as in the example below:
NOTE: Equipment and/or property damage may result If these Instructions are
not followed. J
WEAR YOUR _WARNING: The operation of any tool with s ¢lmular
btade can result in foreign objects being thrown into your
eyes, which can result In severe eye damage. Before
beginning power tool operation, ALWAYS wear safety
goggles or safety glasses with aide shield and s full-face
shield when needed. We recommend aWide V|slon Safety
Meek for use over eyeglasses or standard safety glasses
with side shield, available at Sears Stores or other
Craftsman Outlets.

z_WARNING: BESURE to read and understand all Instructions In this manual t
beforeusing this circularsaw. Failureto follow all Instructionsmay result In t
hazardous radiation exposure,electric shock,fire and/or serious personalInjury,!
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS FOR LASERS
Thissaw hasa built-inlaser light.The laserisaClassIlia and emits outputpowerofa
maximum 2.5mWand 635-665nmwavelengths.These lasersdo notnormallypresent
an opticalhazard.However,DO NOT stareat thebeam asthiscancauseflash
blindness,
CAUTION:The following label Ison your saw.
It Indicates where the saw emits the laser light,
BEAWARE ofthe laser light location when using,
ALWAYSMAKE SUREthat any bystanders In the
vlclnlty of use are madeaware of the dangers of
looking directly Into the laser.
2t Cf'R _1040,10 _¢4 1_10,t_t
A_tD [KPOSU_1_
_WARNING: LASER LIGHT.LASER RADIATION.Avoid DlrectEye Exposure.
DO NOTstare Into beam. Only turn laser beam on when the sew Ison the
workplece. Class Ilia laser.
z_WARNING: Useof controls,adjustments or performanceof procedures ]
other than those speclfled in this manual may result In hazardousradiation f
exposure.
I WARNING: The use of opticalinstruments such as, but not limitedto, ]
telescopes or transits to view the laser beam will Increase eye hazard. !
t_DO NOTremove or defaceany product labels. Removing product labels
Increasesthe risk of exposure to laser radlatlon,
2.The laser beam can be harmful to the eyes,ALWAYSavoiddirect eye exposure.
DONOT look directly Intothelaser beam output aperture during operation_DO NOT
project the laserbeam directlyInto the eyes of others,Turnlaser on ONLYwhen
making cuts.
3.The laser on the saw is nota toy.ALWAYS keep outofthe reach of children,
Thelaser light emitted from this devlca SHOULD NEVER bedirected towardsany
personforany reason.
4. BESURE the laserbeam is aimed at a workptece (suchas wood or rough coated
surfaces) that does not havea reflective surface.
5. DO NOTuse on surfaces such assheet steel that havea shiny,reflective surface.
Theshiny surfacecould reflectthe beamback at the operator°Be awarethat laser
light reflected off of a mirror or any other reflective surfaces can also be dangerous.
6. ALWAYSturn the laser beam off when not in use. Leavingthe toolon Increasesthe
risk ofsomeone inadvertently staring Into the laser's beam°
_CAUTION' ALWAYSfollow only the Instructions contained In this manua-(_
when usingthis laser,Useof this feature In anymanner otherthan whatappears
In this manualmay result In a hazardous radiation exposure,
7. DO NOTattemptto modify the performance ofthis laserdevice inany way.Thlsmay
resultina dangerousexposureto laser radiation.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS FOR LASERS cont.
8. ALWAYSuseonly the accessories that are recommended by Sears for usewiththis
product°Use of accessories that havebeen designedfor use with other laser tools
could result in serious Injury.
9. For further Information regarding lasers, referto ANSI-Z136.1 The STANDARDFOR
THE SAFEUSEOF LASERS,avaUabiefromtheLaserInstituteofAmerica [phone].
WORK AREA SAFETY
1.Keep your work area clean and well lit.Clutteredworkbenchesanddarkareas
invite accldents.
2, DONOT operate powertools In explosive atmospheres, such as In the presence
of flammable liquids,gases, or dust, Powertools createsparks whichmayIgnite
thedust or fumes_
3,Keep bystanders,children and visitors awaywhile operating a powertool,
Distractions cancause youto losecontrol_
4. Make yourworkshop chlidproof withpadlocksand master switches. Lock
tools awaywhen not inuse.
5, MAKESURE the work area hasample fighting soyou can see the work and that
thereare no obstructionsthatwillinterferewithsafeoperationBEFORE usingyoursaw,
PERSONAL SAFETY
1_KNOWyourpower tool. Read theoperator'smanual carefully.Learnthesaw's
applicationsand limitations, aswellas the specific potential hazardsrelated to this tool,
2. STAYALERT, watch what you are doing and use common sensewhen operating
a powertool
3oDO NOT usetool white tired or under the influenceof drugs, alcohol or medlcatlono
A moment ofinattentionwhite operatingpowertools may result insertouspersonalInjury,
4. DRESSproperly, DO NOT wearlooseclothing or Jewelry.PuUback tong hair.Keep
yourhair, clothing, and gloves away from moving parts.Air vents often cover moving
parts and shouldalso be avoided. Looseclothing,jewelryor long hair can be caught
Inmovlng parts.
5.AVOIDaccidentalstarting. Be sure switch ls in"OFF" positionbeforeplugging lm
DONOTcarry tools with yourfinger on theswitch.Carrying tools with yourfinger on the
switchor plugging in tools that have the switch Inthe "ON" position Invltesaccidents.
6.REMOVE adjusting keys or wrenches beforeturning the tool "ON". A wrench
that Is leftattached to a rotatlng part of the tool may resultIn personalinjury,
7,Do not overreach.Keep proper footingand balance at all times. Properfooting
and balance snabresbetter control of thetoolinunexpected sJtcattons.
8oALWAYSSECUREYOURWORK. Usa clampsor a vise to hold work when practical.
It issafer than usingyour hand and freesboth hands to operate tool.
9oUSE SAFETY EQUIPMENT.Always weareye protection. Dustmask, non-skid safety
shoes,hard hat, or hearing protection must be usedfor appropriate conditions°
t0. DO NOT USE ON A LADDERor unstable support. Stable footing on a sol]d surface
enables better control of the tool in unexpectedsituations.
5

TOOL USE AND CARE SAFETY
/_WARNING: BE SURE to read and understand all instructions before
operating this saw. Failureto follow all instructionslisted below may result in Jelectricshock,fire and/or serious personal injury.
1_ALWAYSuse clamps or other practical ways to secure and support the
workplece to a stable platform. Holdtngtheworkby handor againstyourbodyis
unstableand maylead tolossofcontrol
2oDO NOTforce the tool. Usethe correct tool and blade for your application.
The correcttool and blade willdothejobbetter and saferat therateforwhichIt is
deslgnedo
3. DO NOT usethe tool If switchdoes not turn It "On" or "Off", Any toolthat cannot
be controlled with the switch tsdangerous and must be repaired°
4, DISCONNECTthe plug from the powersource before making anyadjustments,
changing accessories or storingthe tool, Such preventivesafetymeasures reduce
theriskofstartingthetoolaccidentally.
5. NEVER leave thetool running,ALWAYSturn tt off, DONOT leavethetooluntilIt
comesto acompletestop.
6. STOREIdle tools out of thereach of children and other untrained persons.
Toolsare dangerous inthe handsof untrainedusers°
7. MAINTAINtoolswith care. Keepcutting toolssharp end clean,Properlymaintained
toolswithsharp cuttingedgesare less likelyto bind andare easiertocontrol
8.CHECK for mlsailgnment or bindingof moving pads, breakage of pads, andany
otherconditionthatmay affectthe tool's operation.Ifdamaged, havethetoolserviced
beforeusing.Manyaccidentsare causedby poorlymaintainedtools.
g°USE ONLYaccessories that are recommended for this tool, Accessoriesthatmay
be suitable forone toolmaybecome hazardous when usedon another tool.
10.KEEPblade guards In place and in good working order,
ELECTRICAL SAFETY
_WARNING: Do not permitfingers totouch theterminals ofplug when
Installingor removingthe plugfrom the outlet,
1.DoubleInsulated tools areequipped with a
polarizedplug (one blade Iswiderthan the other),
Thls plugwill fit In a polarizedoutletonlyone way,
Iftheplugdoes not fit fully intheoutlet,reversethe
plug.If It still doesnot fit,contact a qualifiedelectrician
to Installa polarizedoutlet.Donotchangethe plug in
anyway.
2.Doubleinsulation[]eliminates theneed forthe
three-wiregroundedpower cord end grounded power
supplysystem.Applicableonlyto ClassIi
(double-insulated)tools.This saw Isa double
Insulated tool,
Cover of
Grounded
Outlet Box _ (_

ELECTRICAL SAFETY cont.
_WARNING: DoubleInsulationDOESNOTtake the place of normalsafety
precautionswhen operating thistool.
3.BEFORE plugging in thetool,BE SURE that the outlet voltage supplied ts wlthin the
voltage marked on the tool's data plate. DO NOT use"AConly"rated tools with a DC
powersupply°
4.AVOIDbody contact with groundedsurfaces, suchas plpes,radiators,rangesand
refrigerators.There isan increasedrtskof electricshockifyourbody ts grounded_
5,DO NOT expose powertools to rain or wet conditionsor use powertools In wet
or damp locetlons. WaterenteringapowertoolwfilIncreasethe riskofslectdcshock.
6. INSPECT tool cordsfor damage.Have damaged toolcords repalredat a Sears
ServiceCenter°BE SUREto stayconstantlyaware ofthecordlocation and keep itwell
away from themoving blade.
7.DONOT abuse the cord.NEVER usethe cord to carry the tool by or pull the plug
from the outlet. Keepcordawayfrom heat,otl,sharpedgesormoving parts°Replace
damagedcordsimmediately.Damagedcordsincreasethe riskofelectricshock_
EXTENSION CORDS
Usea proper extension cord. ONLYuse cordslisted by UnderwritersLaboratories(UL)_
Otherextensioncordscancausea drop in line voltage,resulting ina loss ofpowerand
overheatingoftool.
Forthis tool an AWG (AmericanWire Gauge)size ofat least 14-gauge is recommended
for anextension cord of 25-ft.or less inlength. Use 12-gauge foran extensioncord of
50-ft,Extension cords 100..ft,or longerare not recommended,Remember, a smaller
wire gauge size hasgreater capacity than alarger number (14-gaugewirehas more
capacitythan 16-gauge wire;12-gauge wirehas more capacitythan14-gauge)oWhen In
doubt usa the smaller number.
Whenoperatinga powertooloutdoors, useanoutdoorextensioncordmarked"W-A" or
"W".These cords are ratedfor outdoor use andreduce the risk ofelectrlc shock.
Z_ CAUTION= Keep theextensioncord clearof theworkingarea. Positionthe /
cordso that Itwill not getcaughton the workplece,tools orother obstructions J
whileyou areworklngwith a powertool,
Z_WARNING: Checkextensioncordsbeforeeach use.if damagedreplace ]
Immediately.Never usetool with a damagedcordsince touchingthe damaged J
areacould causeelectrical shock,resulting In seriousInjury.

SAFETYSYMBOLSFORYOURTOOL
Thelabelonyourtoolmay Include the following symbols.
V...............................................................................Volts
A..............................................................................Amps
Hz.............................................................................Hertz
W.............................................................................Watts
mln..........................................................................Minutes
.............................................................................Alternatingcurrant
............................................................................Directcurrent
no............................................................................No-loadspeed
[] .............................................................................ClassII construction,DoubleInsulated
.../mln.........................................................................Revolutionsor StroPsper minute
L_o............................................................................Indicatesdanger,warningorcaution.
It means attentlonl YoursafetyisInvolvedo
SERVICE SAFETY
1.If any part of this saw Is missing or should break, bend,or fall In anyway;
or shouldany electrical component fall to perform properly;SHUT OFF thepower
switch and removethesaw plugfrom thepowersource and havethemissing.
damaged or failedpartsreplacedBEFORE resumingoperation.
2. Tool service must be performedonlyat a Sears Partsand Repair Center,Service
or maintenanceperformedbyunqualifiedpersonnelcouldresult In a riskof injury.
3. When servicing a tool, use only Identicalreplacement parts. Follow Instructions
Inthe maintenance section ofthis manual. Use of unauthorizedpartsorfailureto
follow maintenanceInstructions may createa risk ofelectricshockor injury.
SAFETY RULES FOR THE MULTI-PURPOSE/PLUNGE ACTION
3-IN. CIRCULAR SAW
I _ Keep handsawayfrom cuttingareaand blade. Keep one hand
onthe trigger switchand the otherhandon the handle/motor housing.If both
handsare holdingthesaw,theblade cannotcutthem.
[Z_ CAUTION: Bladescoast after saw Is switchedoff. ]
1, KEEPyour bodypositioned to eitherside of the saw blade and not in direct line
with the saw blade. Kickbackcouldcausethesawto jump backwards.
(See"Ktckback...WhatCausesItandWaystoHelpPreventIt"onpages1B.19 and20).
2.DO NOT reach underneath the workplece.The blade extendsbeneaththe
workplacewhencuttingand couldcauseinjury.
l_r_j.-=J"_ When sawingthrough aworkplece,the lower bladeguard and
base DONOT covertheblade.The bladeIs belowthe lowerbladeguardend base
(Pagi_25).ALWAYSKeepyour handsandfingers awayfrom thecuttingarea.
CAUTION: This circularsaw DOESNOThave thestandard RETRACTABLE
LOWERBLADE GUARDSystemfound on standard circularsaws.ONTHIS saw
the lowerbladeguard Isan Integralpart of the saw's base(cutting platform)and
ONLYenclosesthe bladewhen it Is ABOVE thebase.
8

SAFETY RULES FOR THE MULTI-PURPOSE /PLUNGE ACTION
3-IN. CIRCULAR SAW cont.
/_ CAUTION: When the blade Is plunged belowthe base to make the cut,
the blade Is entirely exposed underneath the workplace until It cutsthrough and
clearsthe workplece;at this point the blade guard and base wilt automatically
"DROP" downand lock the bladeABOVE the base,enclosing the blade In the
upperand lower bladeguard.
CAUTION: FAMILIARIZEYOURSELFWITHTHIS BLADE GUARDSYSTEM
and the PLUNGEACTION (lowering blade to desired depth) BEFOREUSING
THIS SAW (See Page 18,Figs. 4 and 4e).
3_CHECK the Blade GuardRelease Leverand the LowerBlade Guardand Base
BEFOREeach use, DO NOT OPERATE the saw if the }owerblade guard and base
does notmove freely and DROP DOWN INSTANTLY,and the blade guard release
leverdoes net automaticallyengage the upperblade guard, AFTER cut Ismade
and blade c{earstheworkptece(See Page 18 and 19).
Iz_ CAUTION: Never clamp or tiethe BladeGuard Release Lever and the
Lower BladeGuard and Base in the raised position exposingthe blade.This
would notallow the lower Blade Guardand BaseAssembly to function properly
after the cuttingoperation, Increasing the risk of serious personal Injury.
4.ONLYUSE themanual Blade Guard Release Leverto false thebase, loweringthe
bladeto thedesired depth-of-cut whenbeginning the cuttingoperatlon_
5_If thesaw Isaccidentally dropped, theblade guard releaseleverand the lowerblade
guard and base couldbe damaged or broken. Lower and raisethe blade manually
(seepage 18, Figs.4 and 4a) to be sure the releaselever,guard and base all operate
properly.
6otf the BladeGuardRelease Leveror LowerBlade Guard and Baseor anyother part of
the saw isnot operating properly, thesaw MUST BEserviced before use.
7.ALWAYSmake sure that the LowerBlade Guard and Base ts covering the blade,and
the Blade Guard Release Leverhas engaged and locked theblade ABOVE the base
BEFOREplacingthe saw down on a workbenchor floor,
Placingthe sawdown beforethe lowerblade guard and base and blade guard release
leverhaveproperly closed and locked could leavethe blade exposed below thebase,
Increasingthe risk of seriouspersonal Injury.Make noteof the time It takes for the
blade to stopsplnnlng and the guard, base and release leverto drop and lock intothe
guarded position,
8.NEVER hold the piecebeing cut Inyour hands or across yourlegs, It isimportantto
support theworkplace propedy tnorder to minimizebody exposure,blade binding, or
loss ofcontrol
9-HOLDTOOL by Insulatedgripping surfaces (handle/saw's body)when performing an
operationwherethe cutting tool may contact hidden wiring or Its own cord.Contactwith
a "llve" wirewLllmake the exposed metal parts of thetool "live"and shockthe operator.

SAFETY RULES FOR THE MULTI-PURPOSE /PLUNGE ACTION
3-IN. CIRCULAR SAW cont.
10rALWAYSclampthe workplece securelyso Itwill not move when making the cut.
11oWhen ripping, ALWAYSUSE a rip fence or straight edge guide.This Improves
the accuracy of the cut and reducesthe chance of the blade binding.
[ WARNING: ONLY USEthe bladesthat are designated for usewith this
saw; correct size,shape and arbor hole. Other blades could runerratically and
cause loss of control, resulting In serious Injury (see pages 16 and 17).
12,NEVER use damagedor Incorrectblade washers or bolts. The bladewashers
and boltswere specially designed for yoursaw,for optimum performance and
safety of operation,
13_ONLYUSE the designatedbladesfor cuffing the type of material for whichthey
are recommended. Cutting materialsthat are NOTrecommended could cause
blade breakage and lossof control, resulting In serious Injury,
14,NEVER cut more than one piece at a time. DO NOT STACKmore than one
workplece on the worktable at a time.
15,AVOIDawkward operations and hand positions where a sudden slip could
cause your handto moveintothe blade.
16.NEVER reach Intothe cutting pathof the blade.
/_ WARNING: Some dust created by using power tools contains chemicals
known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other
reproductive harm_Some examples of these chemicals are:
•Lead from lead-based paints.
•Crystalline silica from bricks and cement and other masonry products_
•Arsenic and chromium, from chemically treated lumber.
Your risk from these exposures varies, depending upon how often you do this
type of work.To reduce your exposure to these chemicals:
• Work in awell-ventilatedarea°
,,Work with approved safety equipment,such as those dust masks thatare specially
designed tofilter out microscopic particles..
Avoid prolonged contact with dust from power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling
and other construction activities.Wear protective clothing and wash exposed
areas with soap and water.
Allowing dust to get tntoyour mouth, eyes, or lay on the skin may promote absorption of
harmful chemicals.
Z_ WARNING: Use of this tool can generate and/or disburse dust, which may
cause serious and permanent respiratory or other Injury. Always use NIOSH/OSHA
approved respiratory protection appropriate for the dust exposure. Direct particles
away from face and body.
I0

ADDITIONAL RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION
Z_ WARNING: BE SURE to read and understand all instructions, Failure to
follow all instructions listed below may result in electric shock, fire and!or serious
personal injury,
1. Know your power tool. Read operator's manual carefutlyo Learn the applications
and limitations, as well as the specific potential hazards related to this tool Following
this rule wilt reduce the risk of electric shock, fire or serious injuryr
2ALWAYS wear safety glasses or eye shields when using this saw, Everyday
eyeglasses have only impact-resistant lenses; they are NOT safety glasses
3, PROTECT your lungs. Wear a face mask or dust mask ifthe operation is dusty
4, PROTECT your hearing. Wear appropriate personal hearing protection during use,
Under some conditions noise from this product may contribute to hearing loss.
5. ALL VISITORS AND BYSTANDERS MUST wear the same safety equipment that the
operator of the saw wears
6INSPECT the tool cords periodically and if damaged have them repaired at your
nearest Sears Service Center. BE AWARE of the cord location,
7 ALWAYS check the tool for damaged parts. Before further use of the tool, a guard or
other part that is damaged should be carefully checked to determine if it will operate
properly and perform its intended function. Check for misalignment or binding of
moving parts, breakage of parts, and any other condition that may affect the tool's
operation. A guard or other part that is damaged should be properly repaired or
replaced at a Sears Service Center_
8. INSPECT and remove all nails from workpiece before sawing.
9, SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS. Refer to them frequently and use them to instruct
others who may use thls tool. tf someone borrows this tool, make sure they have
these instructions also,
Spindle
The shaft on which a blade or cutting tool is mounted Also cailed the Arbor
Revolutions Per Minute (RPM)
The number of turns completed by a spinning object in one minute.
Saw Blade Path
The area over, under, behind or in front of lhe blade, as itapplies to the workpiece,
That area which will be or has been cut by the blade
Set
The distance that the saw blade tooth is bent (or set) outward from the face of the blade
Plunge Cutting
A cutting operation in the middle or interior of a workpiece, where the blade is lowered
down into the workpiece to make a pocket cut,,
Miter Cut
A cutting operation made with the blade at any angle other than 90° to the fence.
11

Compound Miter Cut
A compound miter cut is a cut made using a miter angle and a bevel angle at the same
time.
Cross Cut
A cutting or shaping operation made across the grain of the work piece°
Bevel Cut
A cutting operation made with the blade at any angie other than 90° to the miter table.
Dado Cut
A non-through cut wllich produces a square-sided notch or trough in the workpiece
(requires special blade).
Chamfer Cut
A cut removing a wedge from a block of wood so the end (or part of the end) is angled at
other than 90 °.
Ripping or Rip Cut
A cutting operation along the lengthofthe workpiece,or cutting along the grain.
Freehand Cut
Performing a cut without using a fence, miter gauge, fixture, work clamp, or other proper
device to keep the workpiece from twisting or moving during the cut
Through Sawing
Any cutting operation where the blade extends completely through the thickness of the
workpiece.
Non-Through Cuts
Any cutting operation where the b_ade does not extend completely through the thickness
of the workpiece, like a dado cut.
Leading End (or Edge)
The end (edge) of the workpiece that the blade entersfirst
Kerr
The material removed by the blade in a through cut or the siot produced by the blade in
a non-through or partial cuL
Kickback
A hazard that can occur when the blade binds or stalls, throwing the saw back toward
operator_
Workptece or Material
The item on which the cutting operation is being done The surfaces of a workpiece are
commonly referred to as faces, ends and edges.
Gum
A sticky, sap-based residue from wood products.
Resin
A sticky, sap-based substance that has hardened.
12

Z_ WARNING: Yoursaw should NEVERbeconnected tothe powersoume
when you are assembling pads, maldngadjustments,Installingor removing
blades,cleaningor when It isnot In use.Disconnectingthe sawwill prevent
accidentalstarting, which could causeseriouspersonal Injury.
I. RemovetheSaw from the case and JnspectIt carefully to makesurethat no breakage
or damage has occurred during shlpplngo
2.There Is a blade storage area inthe case wherea General Purpose Blade islocated
with "PwoHexWrenches used forinstalling or changing blades,Inspect the blade
carefullyto make sure that no breakage, crackingor other damage has occurred,
3oThe Edge Guide isforce-fitted into thetop of the lid of the Storage/Carrying Case,
4,The Non-Scratch Base CoverIs force_fittedInto the top lid of the case_
5oThsVac Hose Adapter is force-fittedIntothebottom of thecase.
6.If any oftheparts are damaged ormissfng (referto PARTSLISTbelow), return
thesaw toyour nearest Sears store or Craftsmanoutlet to havethe saw replacedo
L_ WARNING: If any parts are mlsslng,DONOT operatethis saw unt, the
missing parts arereplaced.Failuretodo socould resultIn possibleserious
personalInjury.
PARTS LIST
(Fig. 1)
1.Saw
J
7. ImpactResistantCase
8,Operator'sManual "-'-_r
13
5.Vae HoseAdapter
(stored incase)
6. Non-Scratch
Base Cover
(stored in case)

KNOWYOUR MULTI-PURPOSE/PLUNGE ACTION
3-IN. CIRCULAR SAW (Fig. 2)
lNOTE:Beforeattemptingto useyour saw_familiarize yourselfwith allof the
operatingfeatures and safetyrequirements,
Yourplunge actioncircularsawhasa precision-builtelectricmotorand Itshouldbe
connectedto a 120-volt,60-Hz ACONLYpowersupply(normalhouseholdcurrent).
DO NOToperate ondirect current (DC).The largevoltage drop willcause a lossof power
and the motorwill overheat.Ifthe sawdoes notoperate whenpluggedintocorrect 120-volt,
60*HzAC ONLYoutlet, checkthe powersuppiyoThis saw hasan 8-ft., 2*wirepowercord
(no adapterneeded).
This Saw has the following features:
1.2.8 Amp, 2800 RPM (no-load speed) Motor.Provtdessurecuts fnplywood,
woodbase composites, plastics,vinyl and fiberglass with the general
purpose blade Included,and ceramicand marblewalt tile with thediamond
grit blade soid separately_
2. LaserTracTM the unique, Innovativefeature for accurate,efficient cuttlngl
3. Built-in LEDWorkllghtilluminatescuttingarea forbetter vistbitityo
4. Quick depth-of-cut adjustments witha maximum depth-of-cut of7/8-inches.
5. Easy to read and set depth-of-cut scale, located onupper btadeguard, ismarked
in 1/8-in.increments,0 to7/8-In.withcorrespondinglength(width)of-cuL
6. ErgonomtcallydesignedBlade Guard Release Lever and BaseAssembly Finger
Lift forefficient operation ofplunge action
7. Length of Cut Indicator, located onbass, shows beginning and end of blade
position on the workpleca; idea!forpocket cutting.
8. Heavy-dutyllghtwelght Magnesium blade guardfor extra strength and durability.
9, Stamped and formed steel base and lower blade guard fordurability and long life.
10,Non-scratch base cover for usewhen cutting delicate surfaces such as plastics and
composite flooring.
11.Extendedlength trigger switchpaddle forright or lefthand control,Triggersafety
releaseswitch convenlently located on paddle for easyoperation.
12. Ergonomlcallydesigned handle with soft-grlpadjusts to3 different positions at 0°,
15°,and 30°, for more efficientcutting,comfortandmaximum control.
13. IncludesOne Craftsman®3-In. 20 tooth carbide-tipped steel general purpose
bladefor fast, smoothcutsin plywoodupto3/4-1n,thick,woodbasecomposites,
plastics,vinyland ftberglass.A Craftsman3-In. diamond grlt steel blade,for cutting
ceramic and marbletile up to 3/8-1n.thick, Issold separately.
_4.Two Hexwrenches for use when Installingblades_
15.Includes Edge Guidetohelp produceaccuratestraightcuts.
16. Bullt-lnsawdust extraction port. Includes lib-In, vac hose adapter forhookup
towet/dryvac,soldseparately,to removedustand chipsawayfrom thecuttingarea,
17.Permanently lubricated 100% ball bearingsfor smoothoperationand longlife.
18.Heavy-duty machined gearlng for efficient powertransmission.
lg. Includes High-Impact resistant carry/storage case.
14

This Saw has the following features: cont.
(Fig.2) Laser Tta¢TM and LED
Workllght On/Off Switch
uetsble Handle
Soft-Grip
Laser Light Aperture
and LEDWorkllgh
Depth-of-Cut
and Length-of-Cut
Indicator and
Adjustment /
Lock Lever
for Edg_
iplng
Screw Clamping
Washer Upper
Blade
Length-of-Cut Guard
Indicator Scale Lower Blade
Guard sod Base
"Lower Blade Guard
and Base Finger
Lift Bracket
Adjustable Handle
with Soft-Grip
LaserTrac TM and LED
Workllght On/Off Switch
Motor
Housing
"l_lggerPaddle Switch
Blade Guard Release
Lower Blade Guard
and Base Finger
Lift Bracket Lower Blade
Guard and Base
Dust Ejection
,Chute
a Guide
I/Retaining
Mounting Slots
for Edge Gulde
Length_of*Cut
Indicator Scale
Rating
No-Load Speed
Biade Diameter
Blade Arbor
Maximum Cutting Depth
Input
2.8 Amps
2800 RPM
3-in, (76,2mm)
.3g4-1n. (1o ram)
7/8-1n. (22.2mm)
120-v., 60Hz AC
'15

_WARNING: Never usea damagedor Incorrect bladewasher or bolt.The
blade washer and bolt were specially designedfor your saw,for optimum
performance and safe operation.A 3-Inch blade Isthe maximum blade capacity
of your saw.A larger than 3-Inchblade will come In contactwith the blade
guard.Also, NEVER use abladethat Is so thick that it preventsthe outer blade
washer from engaging with the flat side of the spindle. Bladesthat are too large
or too thick can result In an accident causing serious Injury. ,,,,,,,,,,,, ,, ,,,,, ,i,
_WARNING: ONLY USEthe saw bladesdesignatedfor use with this saw.
Using anyother blade could result Inan accident causing serious Injury.See
page 17 for designatedblades and recommended uses.
_WARNING: Only use the Craftsman ®3-In. 20 tooth carbide-tipped steel
general purpose blade (9-61272 Included), to cut wood, plywood up to _-ln.
thick, woodbase composites, plastics, vinyl and fiberglass. A Craftsman 3-In.
diamond grit steel blade (9-61273 sold separately) Is for cutting ceramic and
marble tile up to 3/8-1n. thlck (See Fig. 3b).
SAW BLADES
All saw blades need to be keptclean, sharp and properlysetin orderto cutefficiently.
Using a dull blade places a heavy load onthe saw and Increases thedanger of kickback.
Keepextrabladeson hand,so sharp blades are alwaysavaiIable_Gumand wood pitch
hardened on the blade slows the saw down, Use gum and pitch remover,hotwater or
kerosene to removethem, DO NOT use gasotlne_
INSTALLING THE BLADE (Figs. 3, 3a and 3b)
,/_WARNING: BE SURE to wear protective work gloves while handlinga
saw blade.The blade can Injure unprotectedhands.
L_WARNING: Saw wiUbe extremely hot after use. BE SUREto let saw,
blade and blade spindle clampingscrew COOL beforechanging blades.
,= ,, =,= ,,,,,,l, ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, ,,,, ,, , ,
1oUnplugthesaw. Fig. 3
z_WARNING: Topreventpersonal
Injury,ALWAYSdisconnect the plug
from powersource BEFORE
assembling parts,making adjustments
or changing blades.
2. Loosenthe blade spindle clamping screw
usingthetwo hex wrenchesIncluded.
Place one wrench intothe blade spindle
clamping screwand the other wrench Into
the back of thespindle assembly
(see Fig.3),
3. Turnthe wrench that Isfn the clamping
screw CLOCKWISE (Fig.3) while holding
the otherwrench stationary.
16

INSTALLINGTHEBLADE(Figs,3and3a)conL
4. After the screw ts loose, place the
saw on s fiat surfaceand continue to
unscrewthe blade spindle clamping
screv_,
5oRemovethescrew and the outer
"D"washer.
6. Setthe depth-of-cut scale to the
maximum depth of 7!8-incheso
Releasetheblade releaselever and
RAISEthe basewith the finger lift
bracketto expose the blade below
the base.
7. Graspthe blade with your gloved
hand and removethe blade, or install
the blade,throughthe blade slot tn
thebase. Fig. 3a
8. Puta drop of oil onto the Inner
bushing washerand outer"D" washer where they will touch the blade°
9. Placethe new saw blade through the blade slot inthebase and onto the spindle shaft
against the Inner"D" bushtng. i, u, ,, ,
NOTE:The teeth ofthe bladeshould point upward at the front of the saw as
shown In (Fig, 3a and 3b).
NOTE:The warningcopy and the Blade RotationArrow shown on the blade
shouldface outwardtowards the operator so It can beviewed (Fig. 3b).
10.Replace the "D" washer.
11.Replace the spindle screwand hand tightenit inaCOUNTERCLOCKWISEdirection.
12.Usethe two hexwrenches to tlghten the spindle clamptngscrew thoroughly.
13.PEacethe two hex wrenchesback in the case.
INOTE:NEVER use s bladethat Is too thick to allowthe "D" washer to engage
with the flat side of the spindle,
Fig. 3b
Included:
9-61272 Craftsman 3-In. 20 tooth
carbide tipped general purpose blade
Sold
separately
9-61273 Craftsman3-1n.
Diamond gritsteelblade
17

BLADE GUARD SYSTEM
(Figs. 4 and 4a)
The iower blade guard isan integral
part of the saw's base and ONLY
encloses the blade when itis ABOVE
the saw's base (see Fig_4)_
When the desired depth-of-cut is set,
the blade is manually lowered berow
the base, (in a plunge action) by
releasing the blade guard release
lever wh]ie holding the finger lift bracket
on the base, as you lower the saw's
handle and blade to the selected depth,
When starling and while making a cut,
the blade is always exposed in front of
and then underneath the workpiece
When the blade clears the cut through
workpiece, the lower blade guard and
base will automatically "drop" down
and the blade guard release lever will
engage the upper blade guard, locking
the blade ABOVE the base and
enclosing the blade in the upper and
lower blade guard system,
Fig. 4
Upper
Blade
Guard
Fig. 4a
Manually lower the blade,
and remove hand from
fing tand
blade guard
release lever
before
starlin;
the cu!
Z_ CAUTION: 1"his Blade Guard system is designed for your protection and
safety and should NEVER be altered for any reason, If It becomes damaged or
begins to operate slowly or sluggishly, DO NOT operate the saw until the
damage or problem has been corrected, repaired or replaced°
KICKBACK..°WHAT CAUSES IT AND WAYS TO HELP PREVENT IT
(Figs. 5, 5a and 5b)
The Causes of Kickback
Fig, 5 _f_
"_t"-=" Direction
! |
T
Cor_ec!b_ededeplh
1
BladeissetIoodeep
18

KICKBACK..WHAT CAUSES IT AND WAYS TO HELP PREVENT IT
(Figs. 5, 5a and 5b) cont.
The Causes of Kickback cont.
1+KickbackIs a sudden reactionto a pinched, bound or mtsalignedsawblade, which
causes an uncontrolled saw to lift up and outofthe workplaceand toward the operator_
2. When the blade ispinchedor bound tightlyby the kerrcioslng down, the blade stalls
and the motor reaction ddves the unit rapidly backtowards the operator_
3. If the blade becomes twisted or misaltgnedin the cut, the teeth at the back edge of the
btade candig intothe topsurface ofthe wood+Thiscauses the blade to climb out of
the kerf and Jumpback towardsthe operator,
4. Sawingintoknots or nails inthe workplace can causeKickback,
5, Sawingintowet or warped lumbercan cause Kickback.
6, Forcing a cut, or not supporting the workplace correctlycan cause Kickback
(see Fig°5a).
7. Kickback Isa result of tool misuseand/or incorrectoperatingprocedures or conditions.
It canbe avoidedby taking the proper precautions, as listed below.
Ways to Help Prevent Kickback
1.ALWAYSmaintain a firm gdp withboth handsonthe saw (see Figs.5, 5b) andposition
yourbody and armstoallowyouto resistKickbackforces. Kickbackforces canbe
controlledbythe operator,iftheproperprecautionsaretaken.
2+Ifthe bladeisbinding,or whenyouare interruptinga cutfor anyreason,ALWAYS
releasethetriggerand holdthe saw motionless Inthe material until theblade comesto
a complete stop.NEVER attempt to removethe sawfrom thework or pull the saw
backwardwhile the blade is inmotion, or Kickback may occur.CHECK and take
corrective action to eliminatethe cause of blade binding.
3. Inspectthe workplece for knotsor nails beforecuttlng°Neversaw into a knot or nail.
4+DO NOT cut warped or wet lumber+
5+ALWAYSsupport large panelsto mlnlmizethe risk of blade pinching and Kickback,
Large panelstend to sag under theirown weight (see Fig. 5a)°SupportsMUST be
placed under the panel, one near the line of cut and one nearthe edge of the
panel (see Fig.5a)°
Rg. 5a Support Large Panels
I , HlJ "o,+U u ,o°Ju
19

KICKBACK...WHAT CAUSES IT AND WAYS TO HELP PREVENT IT
(Figs. 5, 5a and 5b) cont.
Ways to Help Prevent Kickback cont.
6. When restartingthe saw intheworkplece, CENTERthe blade Inthe keff andcheckto
be sure that the saw teeth are not engaged Into the material. If thesaw blade isbinding,
itmaywalk up or Kickback from the workplece whenthe saw is restarted_
7oDO NOT use a dull or damaged bladeoUnsharpened, Improperlyset, or gummed-up
bladesproduce narrow kerrwhich causes excessivefriction, blade btndlng and Kickback.
8.KEEP the blade at the correct depthsetting. Thedepth setting should not exceed
1/4-Inchbelowthe material being cut (See Fig. 5).BE SURE that the bladedepth and
adjusting locking leveristight and secure BEFOREmaklng a cut. If blade adjustment
shiftswhilecuttingitmaycause binding and Kickback.
9.USE E,I_TRACAUTION when plunge cutting making a "PocketCut"Intoexistingwalls
or ether bitndareas.The protruding blade may cut objects that can cause Kickback.
_ALWAYSreleasetrigger safetyreleaseand paddleswitches
Immediatelyifthe blade bindsor the saw stalls,Kickbackcould causeyou to
lose controlofthe saw.Loss ofcontrolcan leadto serious Injury,
Fig, 5b
20