Wondering what a rafter hook on a circular saw is? This confusion is common as many have not heard of it commonly. Expert users do not use a rafter hook often. But for beginners, a rafter hook can be a savior!
Rafter hooks are extensions attached to circular saws for suspending them at a height. While working at a height, the saw hook would stabilize the circular saw. It is helpful for new users to keep the saw in the correct position. You may need to buy one if it is not in-built.
Before you use or buy it, learn about a rafter clasp from this article. Learn how to use it and then enjoy its benefits.
5 Importances Of A Rafter Hook On A Circular Saw
Using a rafter clasp on a circular saw is essential, especially for new users. You can enjoy excellent benefits with just a rafter hook. To make a wise decision, know the importance of a rafter clasp on a saw.
1. Hang At A Height:
Working on a project from a height? Then you would need a rafter hook. Suspending a circular saw just by hand becomes very difficult. Despite being without a rafter hook, your hands shake from the force of the saw movement. But with a rafter hook, working at a height becomes easy and convenient.
2. Stabilization:
It is challenging to keep your hands stable when the saw moves. Especially when there is no support, stabilizing the circular saw is almost impossible, even for an expert. So to keep the saw static and stabilize the machine, a rafter clasp is an essential tool.
3. Alignment:
While working at a height, aligning the saw to the material becomes difficult. The blade may move and tremble vigorously if not supported with a rafter clip. This would result in a rough and irregular cut which is not expected. Therefore, for the perfect alignment, using a rafter hook is essential.
4. Better Control:
Having control over the circular saw is not easy for a new user. But a rafter clasp makes it relatively more uncomplicated for you. When the saw is fixed to the rafter hook, you can concentrate on the movement of the blade only. You won’t have to worry about handling the entire saw. So have better control over the saw with a rafter hook.
5. Perfect Cut:
You naturally make a perfect cut with better control and the correct alignment. The cut on the material would be straight and fine without irregularities. Therefore, to bring perfection to your work, take the help of a rafter clip.
3 Things You Need To Know Before Choosing Rafter Hook
Before you choose a rafter clasp, there are a few things you need to know. This would help you make the best choice and use the hook correctly.
1. Rafter Hooks Are Not Universal
There are a variety of rafter hooks in the market. Different rafter hooks are designed for other saws. So before you buy one, know the model of your saw. Tell the model to the seller. The seller would suggest the right hook that fits your saw.
2. They Come In Different Sizes
Even when the model matches, the size of the hook would vary. The same rafter hook can come in different sizes. So to be very sure, know all the details of the saw you are using. Your seller would give you the rafter hook that matches the size of the saw.
3. Some Saws Have In-built Hooks
Before buying a rafter hook, know that many modern saws have in-built rafter hooks. So if you have purchased a new saw, try locating a rafter clip. In case there is no rafter hook, buy one.
5 Steps To Install A Rafter Hook On A Circular Saw
Most modern circular saws have in-built rafter hooks. They are attached to one side of the circular saw. As you unfold it, you can use it for hanging the saw. But if the saw doesn’t have a rafter clip, learn how to install one on a saw.
Step 1: Gather The Tools
You need a few tools to attach the rafter hook to the circular saw. Have a look at the list below and gather these.
- A suitable rafter hook
- Screwdriver
- XL screws (Two)
Step 2: Find A Place To Attach
Remember that not all circular saws have a spot for a rafter hook. You may find a place in the handle of the circular saw. If the handle is attached with screws, you can fix the rafter hook with the handle. But if the handle is not detachable, you would need to find another place.
A suitable place can be at the backside of the circular saw. This part generally remains empty. Otherwise, find a space on the circular saw where the hook can fold and unfold conveniently. Locate a spot that does not hamper the operation of the saw.
Step 3: Drill The Saw To Attach The Hook
If the circular saw doesn’t have a detachable handle, you need to drill into a spot. When you drill a spot, you can attach the rafter hook there. Use an electric hand drill to drill through the circular saw. At the suitable spot, drill the circular saw. Make two holes for the screws to fix the rafter hook.
Hold the rafter hook holes on the spot. Then drill through the holes. If the drill bit is narrow, first mark two holes with the drill. Then remove the hook and make the holes bigger. Drill the holes big enough for the screws to fix into the holes. Check by inserting the screws so that you don’t face any further issues.
Step 4: Attach The Rafter Hook
If you have found a space on the circular saw handle, use the screwdriver to remove the screws. Place the hook on the spot where the screws attach the handle. Align the hook holes with the handle holes. Then fix two long screws into the holes using a screwdriver. Snugly fasten the screws to secure both the handle and rafter hook. Done!
Similarly, attach the rafter hook to the holes you have drilled. Align the hook holes to the drill holes on the circular saw, and screw the XL screws through the holes. Make the fit snug.
Step 5: Check The Fitting
Once attached, do check the fitting of the hook. Unfold and fold it a few times. Shake the base of the hook a bit to see if it is shaky. If found shaky, you may like to tighten the screws more.
Also, make sure the hook extends out from the saw body. It should not get restricted or blocked by the circular saw body. You can only use it properly when the entire hook extends out completely. Check all these factors. If found correct, you are done with installing the rafter hook.
Related Questions:
Do You Need A Rafter Clasp For Your Circular Saw?
You need a rafter hook for your circular saw for a convenient operation. This simple tool can help you get a perfect cut. Especially beginners would need a rafter clip to operate the saw properly and efficiently.
Even experts require a rafter clasp while working from height. Also, a rafter hook helps hang a heavy circular saw. It stabilizes the saw, helps in alignment, and gives a good cut.
What Is A Saw Rafter Hook Used For?
A saw rafter hook is used for suspending the saw from a height. When working at a height, stabilizing and holding the saw is challenging. So the rafter hook helps to stabilize your hands. You can position the blade conveniently while the rafter hook suspends the saw. You won’t need to handle the weight of the saw.
So naturally, the task becomes easier for you. The blade is aligned so easily to the cutting point on the material. This means you achieve a fine and sharp cut. A rafter clasp, therefore, makes cutting very easy and accessible.
Can You Buy A Universal Rafter Hook For Circular Saws?
You can’t buy a universal rafter hook for circular saws. Rafter hooks come in different models and sizes. You have to get one that is designed for your saw. The shape, size, as well as installation procedure, would vary.
Before buying a rafter clasp, check for a suitable spot to install it. Note down the size and model name of the circular saw you use. Provide the information to the seller. The seller would suggest the right rafter hook compatible with the saw.
What’s The Best Rafter Hook For A Worm Drive Circular Saw?
A spring-attached foldable rafter hook is the best for a worm drive circular saw. You can look for the rafter hooks by Toolhangers. Toolhangers offer affordable and versatile rafter hooks that are likely to match your worm drive circular saw.
This rafter hook can be installed at any convenient space on the worm drive circular saw. You can fold it easily, and storage doesn’t become an issue. The rafter hook by Tookhangers is an excellent one for your worm drive circular saw. Make sure to get the right size and model.
In Conclusion:
A rafter hook on a circular saw makes the application easy. So why not avail a rafter clasp that helps you get the accurate cut you want? Mainly for inexperienced users, a rafter hook is handy. It is the best extension for beginners for a precise cut.
Choose the right rafter hook for your circular saw and make the best use of it.
