RYOBI Circular Saw not cutting properly

What to Do if Your Circular Saw Is Not Cutting Properly 

Safety First 

1. Disconnect the power source

• For corded saws: unplug from the mains. 
• For cordless saws: remove the battery pack. 

This prevents accidental activation while troubleshooting. 

Step-by-Step Checks 

1. Check the blade condition

• A dull, chipped, or warped blade will struggle to cut cleanly. Replace the blade if teeth are worn or the plate is bent. 

2. Verify the blade is fitted correctly

• Ensure the blade is seated flat against the inner flange and tightened securely with the supplied Allen key.
• Confirm the teeth face the correct direction (follow the arrow on the blade housing). 

3. Inspect the material and blade type

• Using the wrong blade for the material (e.g., wood blade on laminate or metal) can cause poor cutting.
• Check the manual for the correct blade specification. 

4. Check the speed and feed rate

• Forcing the saw through the material can cause rough cuts and overload the motor.
• Apply steady, even pressure and let the blade do the work. 

5. Ensure the workpiece is supported and clamped

• Movement or vibration during cutting can cause uneven results.
• Support the material on both sides of the cut and clamp it securely. 

6. Clean the saw and blade

• Resin or dust build-up on the blade can reduce cutting performance.
• Clean the blade with a suitable cleaner and ensure the lower guard moves freely. 

7. Confirm the application is within the saw’s specifications

• Cutting material thicker than the maximum depth or at an incorrect bevel angle can cause poor results. 
• Refer to the manual for correct cutting capacities.