Anyone know how to keep cut square when hack sawing

[jonte]

Please forgive me if this has been asked many times before, but I'm curious to know that when the square tubeing used for the chassis is cut with a hack saw, how do you ensure a square cut without resorting to files/lenishers/grinders etc. to square it up?

In eager anticipation of a reply confirming that this can be done, I'm taking up weight training to strengthen the forearm muscles of my cutting arm

Jonte

PS.... came across cutting guides for use with round tubeing whilst surfing but nothing so far for square stuff.

[Tony]

maybe clamp an oversized piece of angle or 2 to the box section to give you a guide?

but easiest way would be to buy a rage or similar chop saw and do it that way

[Enoch]

Mark the metal both across and down, use a square to make sure both lines are at exactly 90 degrees to the work piece, make sure the lines are quite thin but easily visible. Use smooth deliberate strokes on the saw, take your time. Focus your attention on the two lines. The saw will be pointing down at the front approx 15-20 degrees. Always use a good quality blade - I like the bimetallic ones. Key thing is to not be in too much of a hurry, a good blade will cut quite quickly. Keep your body still, with a bit of practice it becomes a lot easier. The other way is to get somebody else to do it
All the best,
Enoch

[Bonzo]

Originally Posted by Enoch

Mark the metal both across and down, use a square to make sure both lines are at exactly 90 degrees to the work piece, make sure the lines are quite thin but easily visible. Use smooth deliberate strokes on the saw, take your time. Focus your attention on the two lines. The saw will be pointing down at the front approx 15-20 degrees. Always use a good quality blade - I like the bimetallic ones. Key thing is to not be in too much of a hurry, a good blade will cut quite quickly. Keep your body still, with a bit of practice it becomes a lot easier. The other way is to get somebody else to do it
All the best,
Enoch

Tip top info there Enoch

Just to add, it is a great help if you have the material being cut held level in the vice ( A small spirit level will do nicely )
This will assist greatly to avoid run out.

[Oily]

Also make sure the blade in your hacksaw is tightened properly.

[jonte]

Originally Posted by Oily

Also make sure the blade in your hacksaw is tightened properly.

You mean that they can come off? I'm learning all the time Thanks Oily it all helps.

Jonte

[jonte]

Originally Posted by Bonzo

Tip top info there Enoch

Just to add, it is a great help if you have the material being cut held level in the vice ( A small spirit level will do nicely )
This will assist greatly to avoid run out.

Hello, Enoch, and thank you. My shopping list is getting longer Mind you, this is the sort of tool I can pick up in Poundland so keep it coming !!

[shh120m]

another little tip is to place your index finger on the side of the top of the hacksaw when cutting, so you are effectively pointing along the line you are cutting. Its something thats taught when shooting, but its basically something to do with eye hand coordination. Sounds daft but it does work!

[jonte]

Originally Posted by Enoch

Mark the metal both across and down, use a square to make sure both lines are at exactly 90 degrees to the work piece, make sure the lines are quite thin but easily visible. Use smooth deliberate strokes on the saw, take your time. Focus your attention on the two lines. The saw will be pointing down at the front approx 15-20 degrees. Always use a good quality blade - I like the bimetallic ones. Key thing is to not be in too much of a hurry, a good blade will cut quite quickly. Keep your body still, with a bit of practice it becomes a lot easier. The other way is to get somebody else to do it
All the best,
Enoch

Appreciate the step-by-step guide Enoch (this si the only way I'll be able to follow any advice given!!!). Thank you. Tempted by the advice of your final sentence but I've got to at least give it a go if only to show my appreciation of everyones valuable help and advice.

[jonte]

Originally Posted by Enoch

Mark the metal both across and down, use a square to make sure both lines are at exactly 90 degrees to the work piece, make sure the lines are quite thin but easily visible. Use smooth deliberate strokes on the saw, take your time. Focus your attention on the two lines. The saw will be pointing down at the front approx 15-20 degrees. Always use a good quality blade - I like the bimetallic ones. Key thing is to not be in too much of a hurry, a good blade will cut quite quickly. Keep your body still, with a bit of practice it becomes a lot easier. The other way is to get somebody else to do it
All the best,
Enoch

BTW Enoch - enjoyed your diary - exemplary stuff!!!

Jonte