RYOBI Circular Saw not cutting straight

What to Do if Your Circular Saw Is Not Cutting Straight 
 

Safety First 

• Disconnect the battery/disconnect power cord before making any adjustments. 
• Wear eye protection and gloves to avoid injury. 
   

Step-by-Step Checks 

1. Check the blade condition 
   • A dull, damaged, or warped blade can cause wandering cuts. 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 base plate alignment 
   • Make sure the base plate is square to the blade. 
   • Use a carpenter’s square against the blade and base plate. Adjust the bevel setting if necessary. 
      
4. Check the cutting depth and bevel lock 
   • Loose depth or bevel locks can allow movement during cutting. Tighten both securely before starting. 
      
5. Use a guide for straight cuts 
   • For long rip cuts, use the edge guide supplied with the saw or clamp a straight edge to the workpiece. 
      
6. Support the workpiece properly 
   • Sagging panels or uneven support can cause the saw to twist. Ensure the material is clamped and supported on both sides of the cut. 
      
7. Check your technique 
   • Apply steady forward pressure without forcing the saw. 
   • Keep both hands on the saw and maintain a consistent speed. 
      
8. Confirm the application is within the saw’s specifications 
   • Cutting material thicker than the maximum depth or using the wrong blade type can cause deflection. Refer to the manual for correct specs.