Need advice from people using power tools

[gorfias]

My boy bought one of these cheap WITHOUT the black guide at the front. Still cuts well.

http://www.amazon.com/Bare-tool-Dcs381b-20-volt-Reciprocating-Battery/dp/B00QGXS19C/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1421877702&sr=1-1-fkmr0&keywords=sawzall+cordless+dewalt+dcs381#productDetails

Do you think it dangerous?

From power tool users, your advice is appreciated.

 

[Smooth Operator]

Not that much more dangerous then these things are by default, the only real problem is that blade arm will likely bash into the material you try to cut with it.
So find some scrap metal or plywood and make one of those guides, it should be very easy.

 

[Frezzato]

The thing you're talking about is generally referred to as a 'shoe' or 'shoe assembly', and it's kind of handy lol. It's not so much a safety thing as it is what keeps your reciprocating saw from trying to escape from your hands. Think of it like the tail rotor on a helicopter. But don't take my word for it, I'll let This Old House [http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/video/0,,20658070,00.html] explain it.

There appear to be two types of that model; you can look up the specs here [http://www.ereplacementparts.com/dewalt-reciprocating-saw-parts-c-1009_1164.html]. Thankfully, the part number for the shoe assembly is the same both types (I think).

So yes, the shoe will be extremely handy, if not downright necessary, but in my opinion the biggest worry would be the fact that the vast majority of people I know with reciprocating saws never remove the blade. They just toss it in their truck or whatever with the blade still on it. And while they're usually fit with dull, drywall blades, they still have jagged teeth on them!

 

[Jux]

Under what circumstances was the shoe removed? I would be very wary of other modifications that might not be readily apparent. Reciprocating saws are relatively safe though. Just a few general safety tips, don't leave the blade in the saw, don't change the blade with the tool plugged in/battery attached, always wear proper ppe, and be aware of both the saw and material being cut and it's relative position to your body (like in overhead work).

 

[gorfias]

the only real problem is that blade arm will likely bash into the material you try to cut with it.

Thanks, happily Dewalt is sending me the assembly free of charge. Good customer relations I guess.

The thing you're talking about is generally referred to as a 'shoe' or 'shoe assembly', and it's kind of handy lol. It's not so much a safety thing as it is what keeps your reciprocating saw from trying to escape from your hands. Think of it like the tail rotor on a helicopter. But don't take my word for it, I'll let This Old House [http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/video/0,,20658070,00.html] explain it.

There appear to be two types of that model; you can look up the specs here [http://www.ereplacementparts.com/dewalt-reciprocating-saw-parts-c-1009_1164.html]. Thankfully, the part number for the shoe assembly is the same both types (I think).

So yes, the shoe will be extremely handy, if not downright necessary, but in my opinion the biggest worry would be the fact that the vast majority of people I know with reciprocating saws never remove the blade. They just toss it in their truck or whatever with the blade still on it. And while they're usually fit with dull, drywall blades, they still have jagged teeth on them!

Thanks, good advice. I have to check that This Old House. Thanks for the tip!

don't leave the blade in the saw

Dang it, I bet that's exactly what the boy does with it. I'll at least tell him to knock it off. Looks like more blades are reasonably inexpensive. I think these ones... http://www.amazon.com/DEWALT-DW4856-Woodcutting-Reciprocating-6-Piece/dp/B00004RHAA/ref=sr_1_1?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1422137836&sr=1-1&keywords=dewalt+blades

 

[Jux]

-snip-

Yea, it's not only a safety issue, but a general good use practice too. Blades left in saber saws and reciprocating saws tend to get bent, which is also going to end up effecting the quality of the work.

 

[gorfias]

-snip-

Yea, it's not only a safety issue, but a general good use practice too. Blades left in saber saws and reciprocating saws tend to get bent, which is also going to end up effecting the quality of the work.

I'll have to ask the boy if those are the blades in the link above. In the meantime, I did get to watch

http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/video/0,,20658070,00.html Frezzato linked. Good information too!